Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

There’s something utterly irresistible about Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage. The bold, spicy flavors dance on your palate, while the creamy grits cradle each juicy shrimp like a cozy blanket. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, teasing your senses and promising a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds sing.

Growing up in a Southern household, this dish was a staple at family gatherings. My aunt’s version had everyone clamoring for seconds, especially after my uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Now, I can’t promise you’ll leave the table with a Nobel Prize in culinary arts, but I can guarantee you’ll be the star of your next dinner party.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage recipe is simple to whip up, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
  • The flavor profile bursts with spices and smokiness that elevate this classic dish
  • Visually stunning, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the stomach
  • Plus, you can easily adjust ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have on hand

I still remember the first time I made this dish for friends it was like watching them discover a hidden treasure buried beneath layers of cheesy goodness and spice.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Large Shrimp: Look for fresh or frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined they cook quickly and soak up all the flavors beautifully.
  • Andouille Sausage: This spicy sausage adds depth choose high-quality links for maximum flavor impact.
  • Stone Ground Grits: Opt for stone-ground grits rather than instant they provide a creamier texture that’s worth the wait.
  • Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of your dish while enhancing creaminess.
  • Heavy Cream: A splash transforms grits from good to decadent don’t skimp here
  • Cajun Spice Blend: You can buy it or make your own either way, it guarantees that authentic kick.
  • Green Onions: These add freshness and color chop them finely for garnish just before serving.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance flavor profiles always use freshly minced for best results.
  • Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water infuses extra flavor into your grits.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start with the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in stone-ground grits while stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Reduce heat to low once boiling and cover.

Add Some Flavor to those Grits: Stir in heavy cream along with butter after about 15 minutes when grits become tender. Season generously with salt and pepper as you go along.

Sauté the Sausage and Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add sliced Andouille sausage. Cook until browned and crispy edges form about 5-7 minutes before adding minced garlic.

Add Shrimp and Spice Things Up: Toss shrimp into the skillet along with Cajun spice blend. Sauté until shrimp turn pink and opaque this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Everything Together: Once everything is cooked through, gently fold sausage-shrimp mixture into creamy grits until well combined. Taste test for seasoning adjustments you know what they say: happy tummy means happy life

Garnish & Serve: Serve immediately in bowls topped with chopped green onions. Enjoy each bite while basking in compliments from delighted friends

Now you have all the tools to create an unforgettable meal that brings warmth to any gathering Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an extravagant get-together with friends, this Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage will undoubtedly steal the show and maybe even spark some spirited debates about who makes it best So roll up those sleeves and let’s get cooking

You Must Know

  • Mastering Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage creates a comforting dish that warms the soul
  • The blend of spices brings life to your kitchen and fills it with mouthwatering aromas
  • It’s a meal that celebrates Southern heritage while being easy enough for weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the grits first they need time to get creamy. Sear the shrimp and sausage separately to maintain their flavors, then combine everything at the end for perfect harmony.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap Andouille sausage for chorizo or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Adding a splash of lemon juice can also brighten up the dish beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Perfect your Cajun Shrimp and Grits by ensuring your shrimp are fresh and deveined
  • Use stone-ground grits for authenticity and a richer texture
  • Don’t rush cooking let flavors develop fully for the best taste experience

Cooking this Cajun masterpiece reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air alongside the aroma of spices, making it unforgettable.

FAQs

FAQ

What is Cajun shrimp and grits?

Cajun shrimp and grits is a Southern dish featuring seasoned shrimp served over creamy grits.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute shrimp with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for flavor.

How do I prevent my grits from getting lumpy?

Whisk continuously while cooking grits to ensure smoothness and avoid lumps in your dish.

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Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage


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  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage is a soulful Southern dish that tantalizes your taste buds with bold spices and creamy textures. Juicy shrimp mingle with smoky sausage atop a bed of rich, stone-ground grits, creating a comforting meal perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This dish not only delivers an explosion of flavor but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz Andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp Cajun spice blend
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low and cover.
  2. After about 15 minutes, stir in heavy cream and butter; season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sliced Andouille sausage until browned (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Add shrimp and Cajun spice blend; sauté until shrimp are pink and opaque (about 3-4 minutes).
  5. Fold the sausage-shrimp mixture into the creamy grits; adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Serve in bowls topped with chopped green onions.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 1100mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 245mg

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Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann