Cajun Butter Shrimp & Grits Skillet

Cajun Butter Shrimp & Grits Skillet is a bold, comforting Southern-inspired dish that combines smoky-spiced shrimp with rich, buttery grits—all made in one pan. The creamy base of cheesy grits is the perfect canvas for tender shrimp cooked in a flavorful Cajun butter sauce. It’s hearty, quick to make, and packed with the kind of flavor I crave when I want comfort with a kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it gives me everything I want in a meal: spice, creaminess, and satisfying texture. The Cajun seasoning brings just the right heat, while the butter gives the shrimp a luxurious finish. The grits are smooth and cheesy, soaking up all those delicious pan juices. It’s a one-skillet meal that feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether I’m making a cozy dinner or weekend brunch, this dish always hits the spot.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the shrimp:

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

• Cajun seasoning

• Garlic (minced)

• Unsalted butter

• Olive oil

• Lemon juice

• Salt and pepper

• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

For the grits:

• Quick-cooking or stone-ground grits

• Water or chicken broth

• Milk or heavy cream

• Cheddar cheese (shredded)

• Unsalted butter

• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the grits:
   I bring water (or broth) and milk to a boil in a saucepan.
   I stir in the grits, reduce the heat, and cook according to package directions until thickened, stirring often.
   Once the grits are soft and creamy, I stir in butter, cheese, salt, and pepper. I keep them warm while I cook the shrimp.

2. Prepare the shrimp:
   I toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
   In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and half the butter over medium heat.
   I sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the shrimp in a single layer.
   I cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and slightly browned.
   I add the rest of the butter and a squeeze of lemon juice, swirling it around to make a quick sauce.

3. Assemble the dish:
   I spoon a generous portion of grits into bowls or plates, top with the Cajun butter shrimp, and drizzle over the buttery pan sauce.
   I finish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It takes me around 10 minutes to prep, 15 minutes to cook the grits, and another 10 minutes to cook the shrimp—so I can have everything ready in just 30–35 minutes.

Variations

I like to switch things up depending on what I have:

• Use andouille sausage or bacon alongside the shrimp for added richness.

• Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the grits for more heat.

• Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack for a new twist.

• Make it low-carb by serving the shrimp over mashed cauliflower or sautéed greens.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm the grits gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen them, and I reheat the shrimp in a skillet just until warm. I avoid microwaving the shrimp too long to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking so they sear properly.

What’s the difference between quick grits and stone-ground?

Quick grits cook in about 5 minutes and are great for busy nights. Stone-ground grits have a heartier texture and more flavor but take longer to cook—about 30–40 minutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I can make the grits ahead and reheat them with a little milk, but I cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

It can be. I usually taste mine first and adjust. Some store-bought blends are mild, while others pack more heat. I always start with less and add more if needed.

What can I serve with this dish?

It’s pretty complete on its own, but I like serving it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or cornbread for a Southern-style meal.

Conclusion

Cajun Butter Shrimp & Grits Skillet is a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings together the best of Southern cooking with bold Cajun flair. It’s quick enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests. Every bite is creamy, buttery, and loaded with spice—I keep coming back to this one when I want something hearty, soul-warming, and absolutely delicious.