Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce

Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce

If there’s one dish that embodies comfort and flavor, it’s the beloved Southern classic: shrimp and grits. But let’s take it up a notch and elevate this dish with the addition of delicate red snapper and a rich Cajun cream sauce. Picture this: a plate brimming with golden, creamy grits accented by juicy shrimp and perfectly pan-fried red snapper, all luxuriously coated in a velvety sauce. The aroma wafts invitingly through the kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table. Each bite reveals layers of flavor—earthy spices meet the sweetness of seafood, creating a symphony that dances on the palate. It’s the type of dish designed to draw family and friends together in celebration.

This recipe is ideal for everything from cozy weekend breakfasts to special Sunday gatherings. It’s a luxurious choice for holidays or birthday celebrations but straightforward enough for a weeknight treat. The combination of grits, seafood, and sauce warms you from the inside out, making it a perfect meal to enjoy anytime you crave comfort.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Nutrition Information:
  • Calories: 600
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g

(Sources for nutrition: USDA FoodData Central, CDC dietary guidelines)

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up this delightful dish! Not only does it burst with rich flavors, but the aroma of Cajun seasonings sizzling in the pan will fill your home with a welcoming warmth. The smooth grits contrast beautifully with the tender seafood, creating a textural wonder. Plus, it’s relatively easy to prepare, allowing you to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Serve this for brunch, special occasions, or whenever the mood strikes—you won’t regret it!

How to Make Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 Red Snapper fillets
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Optional Ingredients & Substitutions

• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
• Use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• Substitute shrimp with crab meat or lobster for a luxurious twist.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grits: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of grits, reducing heat to low. Stir occasionally and let it simmer until thickened (about 15-20 minutes).

2. Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same pan, add 1 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cook the Red Snapper: Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed and pan-fry the snapper until cooked through and flaky, about 3-4 minutes per side.

5. Serve: On a plate, create a base of creamy grits, place the red snapper fillet on top, add the shrimp, and drizzle generously with the Cajun cream sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop.

How to Serve

For the perfect touch, serve this dish alongside freshly baked cornbread, a drizzle of hot sauce for heat, or a simple side salad to balance the richness. Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to restore the creamy consistency. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce (without the seafood) for up to 3 months; simply thaw and reheat when ready to serve.

Expert Tips

• Farm Fresh: Use fresh seafood whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
• Test for Doneness: Make sure the red snapper flakes easily with a fork. Shrimp should be pink and no longer translucent.
• Don’t Rush: Allow the grits to simmer slowly; rushing this process can lead to a grainy texture.

Delicious Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute shrimp with mushrooms or tofu and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Cheesy Grits: Stir in some grated cheese (like cheddar or gouda) into the grits before serving for a creamy, cheesy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best texture.

2. How can I adjust the spice level?
   To reduce spice, cut back on the Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.

3. What can I substitute for red snapper?
   Any firm white fish like tilapia, catfish, or cod can work as great alternatives.

4. How do I prevent grits from clumping?
   Stirring frequently and ensuring you maintain a low heat while cooking will help keep your grits creamy and smooth.

5. What are good side dishes for this meal?
   Consider serving a light salad or sautéed greens to balance out the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite welcomes warmth and depth, welcoming you to savor the rich traditions of Southern cuisine. Whether for a hearty brunch or a stunning dinner, this dish guarantees to delight the taste buds and bring people together. I encourage you to try making this gorgeous recipe, experiment with your variations, and share your experiences! Happy cooking!

Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce

---

• Author: recipechangegmail-com
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Pescatarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A luxurious Southern classic combining shrimp, red snapper and creamy grits, elevated by a rich Cajun cream sauce.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 Red Snapper fillets
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a pot, bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of grits, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer until thickened (about 15-20 minutes).
2. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add 1 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, pan-fry the snapper until cooked through and flaky, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. On a plate, create a base of creamy grits, place the red snapper fillet on top, add the shrimp, and drizzle with the Cajun cream sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Notes

For lighter variations, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or almond milk. Use crab meat or lobster instead of shrimp for a luxurious twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-frying
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 150mg