Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

Name: Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 oz Andouille sausage, sliced; 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste); Juice of 1 lemon; Salt to taste

By Lina Baker

March 29, 2025

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The aroma of Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage wafts through the air like a warm hug from the South, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. Imagine perfectly seared shrimp, their tender bodies glistening with spices, mingling with creamy, dreamy grits that practically melt in your mouth. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors smoky sausage, zesty seasonings, and the soulful warmth of Southern comfort food.

I recall the first time I made this dish my family’s reaction was priceless Their eyes widened as they tasted the explosion of flavors, and suddenly, dinner turned into an impromptu celebration. This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or lively get-togethers with friends. Trust me, once you experience this flavor fiesta, you’ll be coming back for seconds if not thirds

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage is quick to prepare yet bursts with rich flavors that satisfy any craving
The vibrant colors and textures make it a showstopper at gatherings
It’s versatile enough for brunch or dinner and will impress even the pickiest eaters

Sharing this recipe at our family reunion had everyone singing its praises, and it quickly became a staple in our home.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Medium Shrimp: Look for fresh or frozen shrimp both work well but opt for large ones for better texture.
Andouille Sausage: Choose high-quality sausage for that smoky kick that elevates the dish.
Grits: Stone-ground grits offer a creamier texture avoid instant varieties if you can.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning while enhancing creaminess.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions add brightness and crunch slice them thinly for garnish.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor don’t skimp on this aromatic gem
Cajun Seasoning: Opt for your favorite blend to bring authentic Southern flair to your dish.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to cook the grits and infuse them with additional flavor.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness beautifully.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Grains: Start by bringing 4 cups of chicken broth to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Stir continuously until smooth and thickened about 5 minutes.

Add Some Creaminess: Reduce heat and stir in 4 tablespoons of butter along with salt to taste. Cook on low until creamy while occasionally stirring this keeps those grits from clumping together.

Sauté Your Sausage & Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add sliced Andouille sausage. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until browned and crispy. Then toss in 1 pound of shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices cook until shrimp turns pink roughly 3-5 minutes.

Add Aromatics & Flavor Boosters: Mix in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking shrimp so it becomes fragrant but not burnt Finish off by adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten everything up.

Combine & Serve Up: Spoon creamy grits onto plates or bowls, then top generously with your shrimp and sausage mixture. Garnish with fresh green onions for that extra pop enjoy your culinary masterpiece

This hearty Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage is more than just food it’s an experience waiting to happen So roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking together

You Must Know

Cajun shrimp and grits with Andouille sausage is a dish that brings a party to your taste buds
The smoky flavors and creamy texture create a beautiful balance, making it perfect for any occasion
Trust me, your friends will be begging for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the grits first they need time to thicken. While they simmer, sauté the sausage and shrimp in a separate pan. This two-pronged approach ensures everything comes together seamlessly, saving you from serving cold grits.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Andouille sausage for chorizo or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor. Experimenting with spices can also give your dish a unique twist. Make it yours

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best texture in your grits, use stone-ground varieties they create a creamy consistency that instant grits can’t match
Always taste as you cook seasoning is key, especially with bold flavors like Cajun spices
Lastly, don’t rush the shrimp overcooked shrimp become rubbery and sad

Cooking this dish reminds me of that one dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about it all night Their joy made every minute spent preparing worth it.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Cajun shrimp and grits with Andouille sausage ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients separately and combine them before serving.

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

Fresh or frozen large shrimp work best just make sure they are peeled and deveined.

How do I make my grits creamier?

Add more butter and cheese to enhance creaminess milk or cream can help too

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