Honey Mustard Cajun Shrimp and Cheddar Grits
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
25 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
55 mins
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Servings
4 people
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Honey Mustard Cajun Shrimp and Cheddar Grits
Description
The cheddar grits are made by simmering corn grits in chicken stock or water with salt until tender yet slightly firm, then enriched with butter, sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and heavy cream to achieve a creamy consistency. The shrimp are patted dry, seasoned with Cajun spices, and cooked in butter until opaque and pink. A honey and Dijon mustard mixture is added to the pan and simmered with the shrimp to create a glossy, tangy glaze.
The grits serve as a mellow, creamy counterpoint to the vibrant, sweet, and spicy shrimp. Cooking the shrimp just until opaque keeps them tender. The honey mustard sauce enhances the Cajun spices with subtle sweetness and acidity. The dish combines hearty, cheesy starch with a lively seafood topping.
This meal can be plated by spooning the grits onto plates and topping them with the glazed shrimp and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for freshness. It works well for a flavorful home-cooked dinner highlighting contrasting textures and bold tastes.
Ingredients
cheddar grits
- 4 cups chicken stock low-sodium or water
- 1 1/2 cups corn grits stone ground
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 tablespoons butter unsalted, 1 stick
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese freshly grated, sharp
- 2 ounces Parmesan Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
honey mustard cajun shrimp
- 1 pound Shrimp peeled and deveined, raw
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons parsley or cilantro, chopped, fresh
Instructions
- Place the stock, grits and salt in a large pot and bring it to a boil over medium high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat and and cover the pot for 10 minutes.
- During this time, pat the shrimp completely dry and sprinkle it with cajun seasoning. Whisk together the honey and the dijon.
- After 10 minutes, bring the grits back to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring often and scraping the bottom, until most of the water is absorbed and the grits are al dente or tender, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove the grits from the heat and stick in the cheddar, parmesan and cream. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed!
- While the grits are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook about 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until it’s opaque and pink. Once the shrimp is flipped, pour in the honey djion mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for a few minutes to bring the flavors together. Sprinkle with the fresh herbs.
- Once the grits are done, serve them in a bowl. Top with the shrimp. Serve immediately!