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One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A close-up of One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Grits topped with bright green scallions in a white bowl.

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Make rich, spicy Cajun shrimp and creamy grits in a single pot for a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup quick-cooking grits
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook according to the grits package directions, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy (about 5 to 7 minutes for quick-cooking grits).
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheese, and butter until smooth and melted.
  7. Return the cooked shrimp to the pot and stir gently to combine and heat through, about 1 minute.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.

Notes

  • Use stone-ground grits if you prefer a longer cooking time and a heartier texture; adjust liquid and cooking time per package instructions.
  • For extra richness, substitute half of the chicken broth with half-and-half.
  • If you do not have quick-cooking grits, use regular grits and increase the broth by 1 cup, simmering for 20 to 25 minutes.

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