Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that brings together richly flavored seafood with a comforting Southern classic, this Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine flaky, perfectly seasoned red snapper paired with succulent shrimp, all nestled atop creamy, cheesy grits and finished with a luscious, spicy Cajun cream sauce that ties everything together in delicious harmony. It’s a feast for the senses that showcases bold flavors, comforting textures, and a bit of Southern soul in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in creating balanced layers of flavor and texture. From the tender grits to the spicy Cajun seasoning, these simple yet crucial components make this dish a standout.
- Red snapper fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets for flaky, mild-flavored fish that holds up well to searing.
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined): Adds a juicy, slightly sweet seafood element that pairs beautifully with the snapper.
- Grits: The creamy Southern staple that forms the base of this dish, delivering smooth, comforting texture.
- Water: Needed to cook the grits to the perfect consistency.
- Heavy cream: Used in both the grits and the sauce to add richness and silky texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Blended into the grits for a sharp, creamy flavor boost.
- Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that adds a vibrant, smoky heat to both the fish and shrimp.
- Butter: Adds indulgent richness and helps sauté the seafood and garlic.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the fish to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Garlic (minced): Brings aromatic depth to the Cajun cream sauce.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory complexity and helps balance the creaminess of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every element perfectly to taste.
How to Make Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grits
Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Stir in the grits and cook according to the package instructions, making sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the grits thicken, fold in ½ cup of heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. Keep the grits warm and creamy as they will serve as the luscious base for your red snapper and shrimp.
Step 2: Cook the Red Snapper
Season your red snapper fillets generously with Cajun seasoning, ensuring every part is coated for maximum flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the fillets for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. When the snapper turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest. The searing locks in moisture and flavor, producing a perfectly cooked, tender fish.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add your shrimp and cook on each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they become pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them—they should be juicy and tender without drying out. Once done, remove them from the skillet and keep with the snapper, ready to be plated later.
Step 4: Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce
With the skillet still warm, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté the minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the remaining heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer and thicken, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes, while you adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. This creamy, slightly spicy sauce is what makes this Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Spoon a generous bed of your cheesy grits onto each plate. Layer the seared red snapper fillets and shrimp on top, then drizzle the warm Cajun cream sauce over everything. The sauce melds all the flavors together and adds a rich, velvety finish that dances on your palate. This combination is comfort food elevated to an elegant yet approachable level.
How to Serve Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up this hearty dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a zesty brightness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. If you like a bit of extra heat, a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper on top brings a subtle kick that intensifies the Cajun flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish is filling but pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides. Consider a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans. These options provide textural contrast and a refreshing balance to the creaminess of the grits and sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the dish in shallow bowls to catch every bit of the Cajun cream sauce. You can also arrange the snapper and shrimp artistically atop the grits, layering shrimp in a fan shape over the fish. Drizzle extra sauce in a lovely pattern and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-quality effect that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy grits may thicken upon standing, so give them a gentle stir with a splash of water or additional cream when reheating to restore their smooth texture.
Freezing
While seafood doesn’t always freeze well in cream-based dishes, you can freeze the cooked grits separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before adding freshly cooked fish and shrimp for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating and add a little heavy cream or water if the sauce or grits become too thick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture so they sear nicely rather than steam.
Is it okay to substitute other types of fish?
Yes, you can swap red snapper with other firm white fish like cod, grouper, or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the thickness of the fillets.
Can I make a spicier version?
Definitely. Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper to the cream sauce to kick up the heat to your liking.
Are grits gluten-free?
Yes, grits are naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great option for those avoiding gluten, just be sure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain hidden gluten ingredients.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creamy Cajun sauce and seafood perfectly without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug and a flavorful celebration all at once. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving something comforting and bold, this recipe delivers on all fronts. I can’t recommend enough that you try it—the blend of tender seafood, creamy cheesy grits, and velvety Cajun sauce will quickly make it a favorite in your kitchen too!
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Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful Southern-inspired dish featuring tender red snapper fillets and succulent shrimp served over creamy cheesy grits, all topped with a rich Cajun cream sauce. This recipe balances bold Cajun spices with comforting grits, perfect for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 4 red snapper fillets
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Grits
- 1 cup grits
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cajun Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream (divided into two ½ cup portions)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter (divided into 2 tbsp for shrimp and 2 tbsp for sauce)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the grits and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Finish the Grits: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese into the cooked grits. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the grits warm while you prepare the rest of the meal.
- Season the Red Snapper: Pat dry the red snapper fillets and season both sides evenly with Cajun seasoning.
- Sear the Red Snapper: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the snapper fillets in the pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until the fish is cooked through and has a golden-brown crust. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the snapper.
- Sauté Garlic for Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute, making sure not to burn.
- Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce: Pour in the remaining ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth. Stir frequently and let the sauce cook until it thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cheesy grits onto serving plates. Top with the seared red snapper fillets and cooked shrimp. Drizzle with the rich Cajun cream sauce and serve immediately for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the Cajun seasoning.
- Use stone-ground grits for a creamier texture if available.
- Make sure not to overcook the seafood to keep it tender and juicy.
- You can substitute chicken broth with seafood stock for enhanced flavor.
- Leftover Cajun cream sauce can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, Cajun
