Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

Rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, Cajun shrimp and grits with Andouille sausage is a soul-warming dish that brings the essence of Southern cooking to your table. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you sauté the shrimp and sausage, mingling with spices that dance in the air—it’s an experience that can make even a Monday feel like a celebration.

Growing up, family gatherings were incomplete without this delightful dish gracing the table. The laughter, stories shared, and countless seconds served made for unforgettable memories. Now, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive occasion, Cajun shrimp and grits brings everyone together for a delicious adventure.

Sharing this recipe at our family reunion led to my cousin declaring it the “best thing since sliced bread,” which I think we can all agree is quite an honor.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Shrimp: Use large, peeled shrimp for maximum flavor; fresh or frozen works well in this recipe.
• Andouille Sausage: Opt for high-quality smoked sausage for that authentic Cajun flavor; it adds depth to the dish.
• Stone-ground Grits: Choose stone-ground grits for their texture; they provide a creamy base that’s hard to resist.
• Butter: A generous amount of butter enhances richness; don’t skimp here—it’s all about indulgence
• Cajun Seasoning: Use your favorite blend or make your own; it gives the dish its signature kick.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic will elevate flavors; it’s aromatic and essential in this recipe.
• Onion and Bell Pepper: These aromatics add sweetness and depth to your sautéed mix; choose any color bell pepper you prefer.
• Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water in grits infuses extra flavor; low-sodium is recommended for better control over saltiness.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients so you’re ready to rock Chop the onion and bell pepper finely while keeping your shrimp handy.

Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in stone-ground grits and reduce heat. Stir occasionally until thickened—about 20-25 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add diced onion and bell pepper until they soften and become fragrant—roughly 5 minutes should do it.

Add Sausage & Shrimp: Toss in sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned. Then add shrimp along with garlic, cooking until shrimp turns pink—about 3-4 minutes should suffice.

Season & Combine Everything: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over your mixture; stir well. Finally, fold in cooked grits until everything is beautifully combined—prepare yourself for pure bliss

Cooking Cajun shrimp and grits with Andouille sausage isn’t just about food; it’s about creating moments you’ll cherish forever. So roll up your sleeves, grab those spatulas (or wooden spoons if you’re fancy), and let’s dive into this culinary adventure together

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the grits first, allowing them to thicken while you sauté the shrimp and sausage. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready to serve at once.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Andouille sausage for chorizo or add some bell peppers for extra crunch. Customize the spice level by adjusting cayenne pepper to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

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

Cooking this dish reminds me of my Aunt Ruby’s annual cook-off where her Cajun Shrimp and Grits stole the show. Everyone raved about it

FAQ

What can I substitute for Andouille sausage in Cajun Shrimp and Grits?

You can use chorizo or kielbasa for a different flavor profile.

Can I make Cajun Shrimp and Grits ahead of time?

Yes, prepare components separately and combine before serving for best results.

How do I make my grits creamier?

Add more butter or cream during cooking for an ultra-rich texture.

Print

Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

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Cajun shrimp and grits with Andouille sausage is a delectable Southern comfort dish that pairs succulent shrimp with rich, creamy stone-ground grits. This recipe captures the essence of Cajun cooking, delivering bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this dish will transport you to the heart of Louisiana with its savory aroma and vibrant presentation.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb large peeled shrimp
• 8 oz high-quality Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat; cook for 20-25 minutes until thickened.
2. While grits cook, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add sliced Andouille sausage to the skillet; cook until browned. Then add shrimp and garlic, cooking until shrimp turns pink (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and combine with cooked grits. Mix well and serve hot.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: Swap Andouille sausage for chorizo for a different flavor. For extra creaminess in grits, add more butter or cream. Customize spice levels by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning.