There’s something magical about the combination of crispy, golden-red snapper and creamy shrimp grits that transports me straight to the heart of the South. This Southern Cajun Red Snapper with Creamy Shrimp Grits recipe embodies comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering. The rich Cajun cream sauce, bursting with garlic and smoky paprika, elevates each bite, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Plus, this dish is versatile—feel free to swap in catfish or tilapia if red snapper isn’t available, and adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Ready to dive into this flavorful journey? Let’s cook!

Why is this dish a must-try?

Comforting, Familiar Flavors: Each bite of this Southern classic wraps you in warm, nostalgic comfort, bringing memories of home-cooked meals.

Versatile Cooking: Substitute the red snapper with catfish or tilapia for a twist, or adjust the spice level to suit your palate.

Quick to Prepare: With simple steps, this dish is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as friends rave about the creamy shrimp grits paired with crispy fish.

Cajun Twist: The unique combination of Cajun seasonings and rich cream sauce gives this dish an unforgettable flavor that sets it apart.

For more delicious seafood options, don’t miss the Cajun Grilled Salmon or a refreshing Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas.

Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun Ingredients

For the Grits

Stone-ground grits – Adds a rich, creamy texture; instant grits alter authenticity.
Chicken broth – Provides a savory base for the grits; vegetable broth can create a pescatarian-friendly dish.
Heavy cream – Contributes luscious richness; half and half or whole milk make a lighter option.
Unsalted butter – Enhances overall flavor; using unsalted allows for better control of saltiness.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Offers a melty, cheesy goodness; substitute with any good melty cheese for different flavors.

For the Cajun Shrimp and Fish

Large shrimp – The main protein, seasoned and sautéed for flavor; use fresh over frozen for the best results.
Red snapper fillets – Known for its mild flavor and flaky texture; swap with catfish or tilapia if needed.
Cajun seasoning – Adds heat and complexity; adjust according to your preferred spice level.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses aromatic depth into the dish.
Smoky paprika – Imparts a mild smokiness to the Cajun cream sauce.

For the Cajun Cream Sauce

Grated Parmesan cheese – Enriches the cream sauce with a savory, nutty flavor.
Hot sauce (optional) – Introduces an extra kick to the sauce; tailor according to spice tolerance.

This delightful Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun dish promises to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion!

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 gentle boil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until the grits are thick and creamy. Once cooked, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season to taste.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Toss 1 pound of large shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant, then add shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

Step 3: Sear the Red Snapper
Pat dry 2 red snapper fillets with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. In the same skillet used for the shrimp, add a little more oil if necessary and keep the heat at medium-high. Sear the snapper for 3-4 minutes on each side, cooking until the skin is crispy and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, remove the snapper and keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until golden, then stir in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoky paprika. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well, and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Finally, mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve
To serve your delicious Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun, spoon a generous amount of creamy grits onto warm plates. Top each serving with the crispy snapper and sautéed shrimp, then drizzle the rich Cajun cream sauce over everything. For added flair, sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions and enjoy your comforting feast!

Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe to make it your own—every twist brings delightful surprises!

Alternative Fish: Swap red snapper with catfish or tilapia for a different flavor. Both options work wonderfully and retain the dish’s essence.
Cheese Options: Use pepper jack cheese for a creamier, spicier kick. The added heat creates a tantalizing contrast with the rich grits.
Lighter Cream: Replace heavy cream with half and half or whole milk for a lighter version. You’ll still enjoy that tasty creaminess while cutting down on calories.
Cajun Heat Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference! Add more for extra heat, or keep it mild for a family-friendly treat.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the shrimp mix. It adds vibrant color and crucial nutrients that elevate every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce to your cream sauce for a fiery finish. Perfect for those who crave a little extra spice!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or chives as a garnish. They provide a pop of freshness that beautifully complements the rich dish.
Instant Grits: In a hurry? Feel free to use instant grits instead of stone-ground. While the texture differs, you can still enjoy a delicious meal in no time.

If you’re exploring more seafood delights, don’t forget to try the bold and flavorful Shrimp Pineapple Fried Rice or the refreshing Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas!

What to Serve with Southern Cajun Red Snapper and Shrimp Grits

Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the bold flavors of this dish.

Sautéed Collard Greens: These greens offer a slight bitterness that balances the rich creaminess of the shrimp grits, creating a harmonious plate.
Cornbread Muffins: Warm and fluffy, cornbread soaks up the Cajun cream sauce, making every bite even more satisfying. Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with spicy elements.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad will add crisp texture and a burst of freshness to your meal, effortlessly cutting through the dish’s richness.
Garlic Butter Broccolini: Tender broccolini dressed in garlic butter adds a touch of elegance and a vibrant green hue while contributing to your meal’s nutrients and flavors.
Fried Green Tomatoes: These Southern delicacies bring a crispy texture alongside savory notes that play well with the fish and creamy grits.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade: For drinks, consider serving classic sweet tea or a refreshing lemonade; their sweetness enhances the deep, spicy flavors of the Cajun dish.
Peach Cobbler: End your meal on a comforting note with this warm dessert; the sweetness and fruitiness beautifully contrast the Cajun spices, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.

Indulging in these pairings will make your Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun shine even brighter at the dinner table!

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Cajun Red Snapper with Creamy Shrimp Grits are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the grits up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook them as directed, then cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. The shrimp and fish can also be seasoned and stored separately in the fridge up to 3 days ahead, maintaining their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the grits on the stovetop with a splash of broth for creaminess, quickly sauté the shrimp and snapper in a skillet, and whip up the Cajun cream sauce—delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and time!

Storage Tips for Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Ensure to reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and grits separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to the grits when reheating to restore their creamy texture and flavor.

Keeping Quality: The red snapper is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a skillet with a little oil to regain its crispy exterior.

Expert Tips for Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun

Creamy Grits Secret: Cook grits slowly over low heat to ensure a lump-free, velvety texture; instant grits can lead to a less authentic dish.
Dry for Crispiness: Pat your red snapper fillets dry before searing; this helps achieve that delightful crispy skin which contrasts beautifully with the creamy grits.
Perfect Shrimp Timing: Remember, shrimp cooks quickly—about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
Fish Substitution: If using thicker fish like catfish or tilapia, adjust cooking times to ensure they’re fully cooked; a fork should easily flake the fish.
Reheat with Care: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the grits to bring back their creamy consistency.
Personal Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning in both shrimp and the sauce to suit your heat preference; you can always add more at the table!

Red Snapper Shrimp Grits Cajun Recipe FAQs

What type of grits should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stone-ground grits are preferred for their rich, creamy texture, but if you’re in a pinch, instant grits can be substituted. Just keep in mind that they may alter the dish’s authenticity—stone-ground gives a more traditional Southern feel.

How should I store leftovers?
To keep your Cajun Red Snapper and Shrimp Grits fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to restore their creamy consistency.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! To freeze, store the shrimp and grits separately in airtight containers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding a bit more liquid to the grits as necessary.

What if my shrimp turns out rubbery?
That’s a common concern! To avoid rubbery shrimp, cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. If you find they’re overcooked, it may happen if the heat is too high or they cook too long. Keep a watchful eye, and you’ll do great!

Can I adjust the spice level?
Very much so! The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to match your heat preference. If you’re unsure, start with less and gradually add more to the shrimp and sauce. You can always kick it up a notch at the table with hot sauce if desired!

Is there a seafood alternative for this recipe?
Definitely! If red snapper isn’t available, I often substitute it with catfish or tilapia. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking times depending on the thickness of the fish to ensure perfectly flaked fillets. Enjoy playing around with your favorites!