Cajun Shrimp & Cauliflower Grits is a dish that packs a punch! Tender shrimp are seared with cajun seasoning and then simmered with light beer and butter to deglaze the pan. Steamed cauliflower is whipped into a fluffy cloud and is the perfect, creamy companion to go with the bold, cajun shrimp.
Let’s Talk Shrimp
First thing’s first for this recipe, shrimp! When it comes to buying shrimp, there are couple good ways to go about it. If you have access to good, quality, fresh shrimp, go for it! Otherwise, there is no shame in grabbing a bag of frozen shrimp. I try to purchase wild caught if available, but always go with a larger shrimp over the smaller ones. Keep a look out for the peeled and deveined versions because you don’t want all the extra work of peeling shrimp!
For me, Costco has been my best bet! They have a great frozen shrimp collection and even fresh shrimp that goes on sale on occasion.
What are Cauliflower Grits?
Secondly, let’s talk about the cauliflower “grits.” I know there are die-hard grits fanatics out there who will tell me until the sun sets that these are not true grits. I know, I know. We all love our original grits, but these cauliflower “grits” sure do make a delicious, healthy alternative! I honestly don’t even miss the starchiness of the grits because the cauliflower holds up so well. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.
The cauliflower florets go into a large pot of boiling water for a quick boil. They are then blended with some heavy cream, parmesan cheese and seasonings until decadently creamy. Their creamy taste and texture is the perfect pairing to the boldly flavored shrimp!
Side note: an immersion blender is the easiest way to blend the cauliflower florets together. Otherwise a food processor or blender can be used but may require a little bit more time.
Finally, after the shrimp is sautéd and the cauliflower is blended, it’s time to plate and dig in! The cauliflower grits are the best, creamy base to hold the zesty shrimp. Sprinkle on some chopped green onions and get to eating!
This recipe has become one of our favorites and I hope it does for you too!
Looking for other shrimp recipes? Check these out!
Better Than Takeout Teriyaki Shrimp & Noodles
Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stew
Crispy Baked Coconut Shrimp
Creamy Orzo Shrimp Scampi
Cajun Shrimp & Cauliflower Grits
(4 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cajun Shrimp & Cauliflower Grits is a dish that packs a punch! Tender shrimp are seared with cajun seasoning and then simmered with light beer and butter to deglaze the pan. Steamed cauliflower is whipped into a fluffy cloud and is the perfect, creamy companion to go with the bold, cajun shrimp.
Ingredients
For the shrimp:
- 16 oz (1 pound) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 cup light beer
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 green onions, chopped
For the cauliflower grits:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into 2 inch pieces/florets (or a 12 oz bag of florets)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
For the shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the shrimp and cajun seasoning gently toss to coat.
- Sauté the shrimp until they are just starting to turn pink, about a few minutes. Deglaze the bottom of the pan with the light beer. Add in the butter and allow the sauce to simmer, reduce and the shrimp cook completely about 5-8 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the sauce.
For the cauliflower grits:
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add in the cauliflower florets and boil until fork tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and use an immersion blender to carefully blend the cauliflower together with the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. I do this in the same pot that it was boiled in. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve with the cajun shrimp on top of the cauliflower grits. Top with chopped, fresh green onions.
Notes
- Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used for this recipe. If using frozen, thaw according to package instructions prior to using.
- If you’d rather not use light beer to deglaze the pan, use chicken stock.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 836
- Sugar: 2.4g
- Sodium: 1580mg
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 8.2g
- Fiber: 2.4g
- Protein: 111g
- Cholesterol: 968mg
Keywords: Cajun Shrimp & Cauliflower Grits, Shrimp
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Recipe posted on 03/20/2019 – it has since been updated with new photos and additional words.
Hi, I’m KJ!
Here you’ll find simple, delicious recipes for the home cook. I strive to make wholesome meals with easy-to-find ingredients that you feel comfortable making in your own kitchen—but I won’t shy away from a few indulgences! (I see you: butter, bacon, cookies!)
