Creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits paired with smoky, perfectly grilled Cajun shrimp create a comforting yet bold Southern-inspired dish. This recipe balances rich textures with vibrant spices, making it satisfying enough for dinner while still elegant enough to serve to guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. The grits turn luxuriously creamy, the shrimp cook quickly with a flavorful char, and everything comes together in one bowl for an easy but impressive meal. It’s customizable, hearty, and ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cheese Grits
1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups chicken broth or water
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1½ to 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Cajun Shrimp
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1½ tablespoons olive oil
1 to 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Juice of ½ lemon
Optional Garnish
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon melted butter for drizzling
Hot sauce, to taste
Directions
Prepare the cheese grits by bringing the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
Slowly whisk in the grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring often, until the grits are thick and tender.
Stir in the milk, butter, and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Season with salt and black pepper, then keep warm over low heat.
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
Grill the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until lightly charred and opaque. Remove from heat immediately.
Spoon the warm cheese grits into serving bowls.
Top with grilled Cajun shrimp and finish with green onions, parsley, a light butter drizzle, and hot sauce if desired.
For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning and add a pinch of sweet paprika instead.
For extra creaminess, stir 2 ounces of cream cheese or shredded pepper jack into the grits.
For added vegetables, top the dish with sautéed bell peppers or spinach.
For a smoky flavor without grilling, cook the shrimp in a hot cast-iron skillet.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover grits and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the grits gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture. Warm the shrimp briefly in a skillet or microwave, taking care not to overcook.
FAQs
Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground grits?
Yes, but the texture will be less creamy and the cooking time will be much shorter. Adjust the liquid and follow package instructions.
What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?
Large or extra-large shrimp are ideal because they stay juicy and are easy to grill without overcooking.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, a grill pan or heavy skillet works perfectly for cooking the shrimp.
Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I make the grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits in advance and reheat them with added liquid before serving.
What cheese melts best in grits?
Sharp cheddar melts well and adds flavor, but Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend also work nicely.
Can I substitute milk for cream?
Yes, whole milk works well and creates a slightly lighter texture than heavy cream.
How do I keep grits from becoming lumpy?
Whisk the grits slowly into boiling liquid and stir frequently while they cook.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and grilling.
What can I serve with cheese grits and shrimp?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes.
Conclusion
Cheese grits with grilled Cajun shrimp is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that combines creamy textures with bold seasoning. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish delivers satisfying Southern-inspired flavor with minimal effort and maximum reward.
Cheese Grits with Grilled Cajun Shrimp is a Southern-inspired comfort dish featuring creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits topped with smoky, spiced shrimp. This satisfying meal is easy to prepare, full of bold flavor, and perfect for dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Cheese Grits:
1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups chicken broth or water
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1½ to 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Cajun Shrimp:
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1½ tablespoons olive oil
1 to 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Juice of ½ lemon
Optional Garnish:
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon melted butter
Hot sauce, to taste
Instructions
Bring chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
Whisk in the grits slowly, stirring to prevent lumps.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until thick and tender.
Stir in milk, butter, and shredded cheddar until creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice.
Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly charred. Remove from heat.
Spoon warm grits into serving bowls and top with grilled shrimp.
Garnish with green onions, parsley, a drizzle of melted butter, and hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use whole milk or cream for extra creamy grits.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
No grill? Use a cast-iron skillet to sear the shrimp for similar flavor.
Stone-ground grits have the best texture, but quick grits can be used in a pinch.
For added richness, stir in cream cheese or pepper jack to the grits.
