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### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce**
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking. This recipe might seem like a lot of steps, but each one is fairly simple, and the end result is more than worth the effort. Let’s break down the process step by step.
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Grits**
1. **Cook the Grits**: In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of grits and stir. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the grits, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes or until they become tender and thickened. Add more water if necessary to prevent the grits from becoming too thick.
2. **Make the Grits Creamy**: Once the grits are cooked, add 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of milk or heavy cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts into the grits, making them smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover and set aside to keep warm.
#### **Step 2: Cook the Shrimp and Red Snapper**
1. **Cook the Shrimp**: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Cook the Red Snapper**: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and a little more butter. Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the shrimp.
#### **Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce**
1. **Sauté the Aromatics**: In the same skillet, add 1/2 cup of chopped onion and sauté over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
2. **Make the Sauce**: Add 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
#### **Step 4: Assemble the Dish**
1. **Plate the Grits**: Spoon a generous portion of the creamy grits onto each plate, spreading them out into a smooth layer.
2. **Top with Shrimp and Red Snapper**: Place the cooked shrimp and red snapper fillets on top of the grits, arranging them neatly.
3. **Add the Cajun Cream Sauce**: Spoon the Cajun cream sauce over the shrimp and fish, letting it drizzle down onto the grits.
4. **Garnish**: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and green onions for added color and freshness
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#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot, making sure to spoon plenty of that delicious Cajun cream sauce over everything. The combination of tender shrimp, flaky red snapper, creamy grits, and spicy sauce will create an unforgettable meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
### **Tips for the Perfect Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce**
1. **Use Fresh Seafood**: Fresh shrimp and red snapper are key to getting the best flavor and texture. When possible, purchase wild-caught seafood for the best taste and sustainability.
2. **Adjust the Spice Level**: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, you can add more Cajun seasoning or even a chopped fresh jalapeño to the sauce.
3. **Don’t Overcook the Shrimp**: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking them will result in a tough texture. Keep an eye on them while they’re in the pan, and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
4. **Make the Grits Ahead of Time**: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the grits in advance and keep them warm on the stovetop or in the oven. Just be sure to add extra cream or milk to keep them creamy.
5. **Experiment with Cheese**: While cheddar is a classic choice for grits, you can try using other cheeses, such as gouda or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
### **Conclusion**
Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce is the ultimate Southern comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors that are sure to please any palate. The combination of succulent shrimp, flaky red snapper, and the creamy, spicy Cajun sauce over a bed of cheesy grits creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for a special dinner or any occasion where you want to impress your guests, this dish embodies the best of Southern cuisine and will undoubtedly become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
By following the steps and tips in this article, you’ll be able to recreate this flavorful feast in your own kitchen. Enjoy!
