Introduction
Red Snapper and Shrimp on Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce is a Southern-inspired masterpiece that combines fresh, seared seafood and creamy, cheesy grits. Moreover, the dish is elevated with a rich Cajun cream sauce, bringing bold flavors to the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers an elegant twist on comfort food, making it both satisfying and impressive.
Ingredients
For the Fish & Shrimp:
- 2 red snapper fillets
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cajun Cream Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for extra spice)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Grits
To begin, bring the chicken broth (or water) to a boil in a medium saucepan. As soon as the broth reaches a boil, gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, ensuring no lumps form. Afterward, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and allow the grits to cook for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking. Once the grits reach a creamy consistency, stir in the butter, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste, and set the grits aside, keeping them warm.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Red Snapper & Shrimp
Meanwhile, pat the red snapper fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. Next, rub them with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated, and season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, sear the red snapper fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. After cooking the fish, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Using the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 3: Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce
Now, in the same skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Then, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic, sautéing them for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften. Once the vegetables are ready, stir in the Cajun seasoning to blend the flavors together. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring the ingredients together. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it thickens properly. When the sauce begins to thicken, stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce if desired.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
To assemble, spoon a generous portion of creamy grits onto each serving plate. Next, place the seared red snapper fillet on top of the grits, followed by the cooked shrimp. Afterward, drizzle the Cajun cream sauce over the seafood and grits, making sure everything is well-coated. Lastly, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and flavor.
COOKING Note
For an extra layer of flavor, you can opt to grill the red snapper and shrimp instead of searing them. Grilling imparts a smoky taste that pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices. Before grilling, oil the grill grates and cook the seafood over medium heat to maintain its juiciness and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern-inspired dish pairs excellently with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Alternatively, if you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a glass of iced sweet tea with a splash of lemon provides the perfect Southern touch. Additionally, you can serve this dish with sautéed collard greens or a light mixed green salad to balance the richness of the grits and sauce.
Tips
- First, ensure the skillet is fully heated before adding the red snapper and shrimp to achieve a perfect sear.
- If the grits thicken too much, stir in a little chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- To keep the shrimp tender and juicy, avoid overcooking them; they only need 2-3 minutes per side.
- Finally, adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning depending on your spice tolerance, as some blends can be quite hot.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 900mg
Conclusion
In conclusion, Red Snapper and Shrimp on Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce offers a delightful combination of Southern comfort and bold flavors. The creamy grits, paired with fresh, perfectly seasoned seafood and a rich Cajun cream sauce, make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Above all, the balance of spicy, creamy, and savory elements creates a memorable and satisfying meal.
FAQ
Q: Can I substitute the red snapper with another type of fish?
A: Yes, red snapper can be replaced with other firm white fish such as halibut, grouper, or tilapia.
Q: Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the grits and Cajun cream sauce in advance and reheat them before serving. However, the fish and shrimp are best cooked fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
A: You can create a homemade Cajun seasoning blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust the cayenne to your preferred heat level.
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