Cajun Shrimp & White Cheddar Cheese Grits made with creamy, cheesy grits smothered in a rich, savory sauce of succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, sweet corn, and velvety cream. This dish combines bold Cajun flavors with the comfort of classic Southern cuisine, creating the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for any meal, it’s a hearty and satisfying treat that will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love It:

Bold Flavor Combination: The blend of Cajun spices with creamy white cheddar grits and savory shrimp creates a unique and mouthwatering taste experience.
Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish offers the ultimate comfort, combining rich, creamy textures with hearty ingredients like bacon and corn.
Versatile Meal: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Cajun Shrimp & White Cheddar Cheese Grits are a versatile dish that fits any occasion.
Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet taste, this dish is straightforward to make, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients Notes:

Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Ensure they are peeled and deveined before cooking. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
Thick Cut Bacon: Thick cut bacon adds a robust, smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch to the dish. Cook until crispy for the best texture and crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend typically includes paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs. Use store-bought or make your own to control the heat level. It adds a signature bold, spicy kick to the dish.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream contributes to the rich, velvety texture of the sauce. It balances the spice of the Cajun seasoning and adds a luxurious mouthfeel.
Quick Grits: Quick grits are a convenient option, cooking up in just a few minutes. They provide a creamy base that perfectly complements the other flavors. Follow package instructions for best results.
Shredded White Cheddar Cheese: Choose a sharp white cheddar for a pronounced cheesy flavor. Shredding the cheese yourself from a block ensures it melts smoothly into the grits.
Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn can be used. Fresh corn offers the best flavor and texture, but frozen or canned is a convenient alternative. If using fresh, cut the kernels off the cob for the sweetest taste.

Substitutions & Variations:

Shrimp:
- Substitute or add chicken or andouille sausage for a different protein. Cook thoroughly before adding to the dish.
- Use scallops or crawfish for a seafood variation.
Thick Cut Bacon:
- Replace with crumbled turkey bacon or pancetta for a different flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or vegetarian bacon for a similar savory taste.
Cajun Seasoning:
- For a milder dish, use Old Bay seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.
Heavy Cream:
- Replace with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
- Use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Quick Grits:
- Use polenta or creamy mashed potatoes if grits are unavailable.
Shredded White Cheddar Cheese:
- Swap with sharp yellow cheddar, gruyere, or parmesan for different flavors.
- For a spicy kick, use pepper jack cheese.
Corn:
- Replace or add sweet bell peppers or zucchini for a different vegetable component.
- Use creamed corn for an extra creamy and sweet variation.

Shrimp & Grits Topping in Pan- Must Love Garlic

How to Make Shrimp & Cheese Grits:

Make the Grits
- In a large pot, bring chicken broth and whole milk to a gentle boil.
- Slowly whisk in the quick grits, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Continuously whisk the grits until they are thickened, tender, and lump-free, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, shredded white cheddar, and half of the drained canned corn. Continue whisking until the butter and cheese are melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Bacon
- Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the bacon to the pan and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side until crispy. Set the bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Drain the grease from the frying pan.
Make the Shrimp Topping
- In a mixing bowl, toss the raw shrimp with minced garlic and Cajun seasoning.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the frying pan.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1.5-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Pour in the heavy cream, the remaining canned corn, and crumbled bacon. Simmer and stir for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from heat.
Plate, Top with Garnish, and Serve
- Serve the grits in bowls and top with the shrimp mixture.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or additional cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your Cajun Shrimp & White Cheddar Cheese Grits!

Shrimp & Cheese Grits in Grey Plate- Must Love Garlic

Tips & Recipe Notes:

Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time: Have all your ingredients measured and prepared before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Avoid Lumpy Grits: Whisk the grits continuously as you add them to the boiling liquid to prevent lumps. If lumps do form, you can use a whisk to break them up.
Adjust Consistency: If the grits become too thick, you can add a bit more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Cooking Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be pink and opaque but still tender. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
Crispy Bacon: Cooking bacon slowly over medium heat helps render the fat and achieve a crispier texture. Make sure to drain it well on paper towels to remove excess grease.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your heat preference. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice or use a milder seasoning if preferred.
Cheese Selection: Using freshly shredded cheese ensures a smoother melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: If using fresh corn, cook it slightly before adding to the dish to enhance its sweetness and tenderness. Frozen corn should be thawed and drained to avoid adding extra moisture.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the grits if needed.

Are Grits Gluten-Free?

Yes, grits are naturally gluten-free because they are made from ground corn. However, it’s essential to ensure that the grits you purchase are labeled as gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains during processing. Always check the packaging and, if in doubt, contact the manufacturer for more information.

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