The Art of Authentic Cajun Shrimp and Creamy Cheese Grits Perfection

Perfect Grits Preparation Mastery

Master the technique of cooking stone-ground grits to achieve smooth, creamy perfection.

Cajun Seasoning Excellence

Learn the skill of properly seasoning and cooking shrimp for maximum flavor absorption.

Holy Trinity Foundation

Perfect the method of preparing the classic Louisiana vegetable base for authentic flavor.

Cheese Integration Technique

Master the art of incorporating cheese into grits for smooth, creamy consistency.

Presentation Perfection

Learn optimal plating techniques for restaurant-quality visual appeal and flavor balance.

Cajun Cooking Mastery Secrets for Perfect Shrimp and Cheese Grits

Shrimp Quality: Use large, fresh shrimp for best texture - avoid overcooking to prevent rubber texture.

Grits Consistency: Stir frequently and add liquid gradually for smooth, creamy texture without lumps.

Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and cayenne to taste - start conservative and add more.

Cheese Integration: Add cheese off heat and stir gently to prevent breaking or graininess.

Timing Coordination: Start grits first, then prep vegetables and shrimp for perfect timing.

Holy Trinity: Don't skip the traditional onion, celery, bell pepper base - it's essential for authentic flavor.

Cajun Shrimp Plated on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Grits with Fresh Herbs

Name: Cajun Shrimp Plated on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Grits with Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: For the Cajun Shrimp:; 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; For the Creamy Grits:; 1 cup stone-ground white grits; 4 cups whole milk; 2 cups chicken broth; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; For the Cheese Enhancement:; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup sharp white cheddar cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; For the Cooking Base:; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 large onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; For the Flavor Builders:; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 cup white wine; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; For the Seasoning Blend:; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

An authentic Southern-style Cajun shrimp dish featuring perfectly seasoned jumbo shrimp with bold spices, served over creamy garlic parmesan cheese grits and garnished with fresh herbs. This restaurant-quality comfort food combines the fiery heat of traditional Cajun seasoning with succulent shrimp, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana while delivering an unforgettable dining experience perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or any time you crave bold, satisfying Southern cuisine.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

25 Minutes

Total Time

45 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Cajun Shrimp:

2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Creamy Grits:

1 cup stone-ground white grits

4 cups whole milk

2 cups chicken broth

4 tablespoons butter

1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Cheese Enhancement:

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup sharp white cheddar cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cooking Base:

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

1 large onion, diced

1 bell pepper, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

For the Flavor Builders:

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/2 cup white wine

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

For the Seasoning Blend:

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon oregano

For the Fresh Garnish:

1/4 cup fresh green onions, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 lemon, cut into wedges

For the Sauce Elements:

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Hot sauce to taste

For Special Equipment:

Large cast iron skillet

Heavy-bottomed saucepan

Whisk

Tongs

Instructions

Start by preparing the creamy cheese grits as they require longest cooking time.

Bring milk and chicken broth to gentle simmer in heavy-bottomed saucepan.

Slowly whisk in stone-ground grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

Reduce heat to low and cook grits, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes.

Meanwhile, season shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning and paprika.

Let seasoned shrimp rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.

Heat olive oil in large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery (holy trinity) to hot skillet.

Sauté vegetables for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for additional minute.

Pour in white wine and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to deglaze pan.

Add seasoned shrimp to skillet in single layer, avoiding overcrowding.

Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.

Remove skillet from heat and add butter and lemon juice.

Finish cooking grits by stirring in butter, cream, and minced garlic.

Gradually add Parmesan and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Season grits with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting consistency with milk.

Spoon creamy cheese grits into individual serving bowls or plates.

Top grits generously with Cajun shrimp and vegetable mixture.

Garnish with fresh chopped green onions and parsley for color.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges and hot sauce on the side.

Accompany with crusty French bread or cornbread for complete meal.

Cajun Shrimp Plated on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Grits with Fresh Herbs

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Authentic Cajun Shrimp and Creamy Cheese Grits Perfection

Cajun Shrimp Plated on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Grits with Fresh Herbs

Ingredients

Instructions