As I stood in my kitchen, the rich, inviting aroma of sautéed garlic and Cajun spices danced around me, instantly transforming my space into a cozy Southern getaway. Today, I’m excited to share my Southern Red Snapper and Shrimp Grits with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce—a dish that perfectly marries crispy, tender fish with plump shrimp served over velvety cheese grits. This recipe is not just flavorful; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With gluten-free options available, everyone can enjoy this Southern classic, which is sure to impress friends and family alike. Ready to whisk up this delightful dish that embodies the essence of comfort food? Let’s dive in!
Why is this dish a must-try?
Delectable Combination: The union of crispy red snapper and succulent shrimp provides a rich seafood experience that will delight your taste buds.
Creamy Goodness: Paired with velvety cheese grits, the dish offers a satisfying base that elevates the flavors of the seafood.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip up this meal in under 30 minutes!
Customizable: Whether you prefer a mild or spicy flavor, simply adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your palate. Check out some of my other easy seafood recipes!
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is sure to impress guests at your next dinner party, making it an unforgettable highlight!
Gluten-Free Options: With alternatives like vegetable broth and gluten-free grits available, everyone can indulge in this Southern favorite without worry.
Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun Ingredients
For the Grits
• Stone-ground grits – These create a creamy texture; for quicker prep, go for quick-cooking grits, though they will differ in texture.
• Chicken broth or water – This adds flavor to the grits; you can substitute with vegetable broth for a pescatarian option.
• Heavy cream – Infuses richness and smoothness; consider using half and half or whole milk for a lighter touch.
• Unsalted butter – Enhances the flavor; feel free to swap in salted butter but adjust other salt seasonings accordingly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully into the grits for added flavor; a great substitute is Gruyere or even dairy-free cheese.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to taste for enhancing the flavors of the grits.
For the Shrimp & Fish
• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – The star of the dish, providing texture; replace with fresh or frozen shrimp, just ensure they are uncooked.
• Olive oil – Ideal for sautéing; can be swapped with canola oil if desired.
• Cajun seasoning – Unleashes the dish’s spice and flavor; you can adjust the amount for a milder taste.
• Garlic (minced) – An aromatic base that amplifies the flavor; fresh garlic gives the best results.
• Red snapper fillets – The centerpiece of this dish, prized for its mild flavors; tilapia or catfish can be substituted, but adjust cooking time.
For the Cajun Cream Sauce
• Smoked paprika – Provides depth and character to the sauce; regular paprika works, or you could omit it entirely.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory touch to the sauce; for a vegan version, nutritional yeast is a good alternative.
• Hot sauce (optional) – For those who enjoy a kick of heat; simply omit if you desire a milder flavor.
Gather these ingredients to create your flavorful Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun masterpiece!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun
Step 1: Prepare the Grits
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low. Cook the mixture uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Once done, stir in ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Keep warm on low heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the grits are cooking, take 1 pound of large peeled and deveined shrimp and toss them with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until shimmering. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Red Snapper
Pat dry 4 red snapper fillets with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the fillets in the skillet, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Look for the fish to flake easily with a fork. Remove the snapper and keep warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then add another clove of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, stirring for about 1 minute. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute before stirring in ½ cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir occasionally until the sauce is smooth and creamy; this should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
To serve your Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun, spoon a generous portion of the creamy grits onto each plate. Top with the sautéed shrimp and a crispy red snapper fillet. Drizzle the warm Cajun cream sauce generously over the entire dish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy this delicious Southern-inspired meal that combines wonderful textures and flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can cook the grits up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to cool and then refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain their creamy texture, reheat the grits gently with a splash of broth or milk when ready to serve. Additionally, the seasoned shrimp can be sautéed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just warm them briefly before assembling. For the Cajun cream sauce, you can prepare it a day ahead as well, storing it separately and gently reheating before drizzling over the dish. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a cozy, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort on weeknights!
Storage Tips for Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the flavors intact and avoids any unwanted odors.
Freezer: You can freeze the grits and Cajun cream sauce for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the seafood separately to maintain quality.
Reheating: Gently reheat the grits and sauce over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Shrimp and snapper can also be reheated in a skillet for the best texture.
Airtight Packaging: Make sure all items are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn or moisture loss, preserving the delicious essence of your Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun.
What to Serve with Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun
Elevate your meal by pairing these hearty gentry favorites that harmonize beautifully with this rich Southern classic.
- Sautéed Greens: Fresh collard greens or garlic spinach provide a pop of color and earthy flavor, enhancing the Cajun spices.
- Buttered Cornbread: This sweet, crumbly bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, delivering comfort in every bite.
- Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes: Their tangy and crispy texture contrast the dish’s richness, adding a Southern twist your guests will love.
- Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of orange, grapefruit, and arugula complements the dish beautifully while balancing the spices with a burst of freshness.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy slaw adds crunch and lightness to your plate, making each bite feel like a new experience.
- Sweet Tea: A classic Southern beverage that cools down the spices and perfectly rounds off the rich, buttery flavors of the meal.
- Pecan Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm pecan pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a satisfying sweetness to conclude your meal.
Expert Tips for Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun
- Creamy Grits Secret: To maintain a smooth and creamy texture, reheat grits with a splash of broth or milk before serving.
- Even Cooking: Spread the shrimp evenly in the skillet to prevent overcrowding, ensuring they cook uniformly and retain their juiciness.
- Sear It Right: Always pat the red snapper fillets dry before seasoning; this step is crucial for achieving a perfect golden sear without steam.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning! The amount of Cajun seasoning can vary based on personal preference, so find your ideal balance.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to substitute seafood for your favorite proteins or mix in colorful veggies for added nutrition and flavor without compromising the essence of Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun.
Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Vegetarian Version: Omit the seafood entirely and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of seasonal vegetables for a hearty meal.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or coconut milk instead of heavy cream and switch to nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
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Spice it Up: Increase the cayenne or add diced jalapeños to the Cajun seasoning for a fiery kick that enhances the flavor profile.
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Broth Swaps: For a lighter fare, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or use seafood stock to amplify the oceanic flavors.
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Cheese Swaps: Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist in the grits; these cheeses can bring a delightful new taste to the dish.
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Alternate Grains: Use quinoa or couscous instead of grits for a unique texture and a nutritious boost, making the dish gluten-free.
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding lemon juice or zest at the end to brighten the rich flavors—it’s a simple way to enhance freshness!
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Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or basil in the sauce for an aromatic lift, which pairs beautifully with shrimp and fish.
These delightful variations are sure to keep your meal fresh and exciting! If you’re looking for other seafood inspirations, don’t miss my delicious shrimp recipes that will ignite your culinary creativity.
Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the freshest red snapper?
Absolutely! When selecting red snapper, look for fillets that are bright in color with no dark spots or discoloration. The flesh should feel firm and bounce back when pressed, ensuring freshness. Fresh fish should also have a clean, mild aroma, rather than a strong “fishy” smell.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to let them cool before sealing. If you plan to keep them longer, properly freeze the grits and Cajun cream sauce for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze shrimp and snapper separately to preserve texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the red snapper and shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze cooked red snapper and shrimp, place them in airtight freezer bags, trying to remove as much air as possible. For best results, consume within 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and be mindful not to overcook when warming them up.
What if my shrimp aren’t cooking evenly?
Very common! To ensure even cooking, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary, allowing space for each shrimp to be in direct contact with the pan. A hot skillet is essential; if it’s too cool, the shrimp will steam instead of sear, resulting in uneven cooking. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque.
Are there any dietary considerations I should think about?
Definitely! This dish can easily be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free grits and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If cooking for someone with a shellfish allergy, either omit the shrimp or substitute with a different protein like chicken or tofu. Always check your seasoning mix as some may contain gluten.
Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun: A Flavorful Southern Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low. Cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Keep warm on low heat.
- While the grits are cooking, take 1 pound of large peeled and deveined shrimp and toss them with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter until shimmering. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet.
- Pat dry 4 red snapper fillets and season with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Carefully place the fillets in the skillet, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then add another clove of minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and let simmer for a minute before adding ½ cup heavy cream and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy; this should take about 3-5 minutes.
- To serve, spoon a generous portion of creamy grits onto each plate. Top with sautéed shrimp and a crispy red snapper fillet. Drizzle warm Cajun cream sauce over the dish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!
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