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Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun

Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun: A Soulful Southern Delight

A delightful dish combining crispy red snapper and shrimp over cheesy grits, perfect for dinner and packed with Cajun flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Grits
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits Can substitute with instant grits for a quicker option.
  • 4 cups chicken broth Can be replaced with vegetable broth for pescatarian option.
  • ½ cup heavy cream Can substitute with half and half or whole milk.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable, but reduce added salt.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with Parmesan or lactose-free cheese.
For the Seafood
  • 1 pound large shrimp Ensure shrimp are fresh or frozen (not precooked).
  • 4 fillets red snapper Can substitute with catfish or tilapia, adjusting cook times.
For the Cajun Cream Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can be replaced with vegetable oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust according to personal spice preference.
  • 6 cloves garlic Fresh minced garlic is preferable.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adjust quantity for desired flavor.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Can omit if lactose intolerant or substitute with nutritional yeast.
  • to taste hot sauce Optional for added heat.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Spoons
  • measuring cups

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a rolling boil. Gradually whisk in stone-ground grits, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until thick and creamy. Stir in heavy cream, butter, and cheddar cheese. Cover to keep warm.
  2. Season large shrimp with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, pat red snapper fillets dry and season. Increase heat to medium-high and sear fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove snapper from skillet and set aside with shrimp.
  4. Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add more minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Gradually stir in heavy cream and let simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
  5. To serve, spoon creamy grits onto each plate, layer crispy red snapper and shrimp on top, then drizzle with Cajun cream sauce. Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers; keep grits, seafood, and sauce separate. Reheat gently and serve hot for the best experience.

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