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Step 1: Prepare the Grits Start by bringing 4 cups of water (or chicken broth for more flavor) to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Once boiling, gradually stir in the grits, reducing the heat to low. Stir frequently to prevent lumps and cook according to package instructions (usually about 20-30 minutes). Once the grits are cooked and creamy, stir in the butter, heavy cream, and salt and pepper to taste. Keep the grits warm while you prepare the seafood.
Step 2: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly (about 5-7 minutes). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Red Snapper and Shrimp Season both the red snapper fillets and the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the red snapper fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside with the fish.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish To plate, start by spooning a generous serving of creamy grits onto the center of each plate. Top the grits with a red snapper fillet, followed by a handful of cooked shrimp. Drizzle the Cajun cream sauce over the fish and shrimp, ensuring each bite is infused with the rich, spicy flavors of the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the vibrant combination of flavors and textures in this delicious Southern-inspired dish.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish:
- For extra flavor in the grits: Try cooking them with a bit of chicken broth or adding a handful of shredded cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) to make them extra creamy and rich.
- Adjust the spice: If you love a little more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun cream sauce or to the seasoning on the fish and shrimp.
- Fresh vs. frozen seafood: While fresh fish and shrimp are always ideal, frozen seafood works just as well. Just make sure to thaw and pat dry the seafood before cooking to ensure the best results.
Why This Dish Works:
Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce is a perfect example of how Southern and Cajun flavors come together in harmony. The buttery, creamy grits act as the perfect base, absorbing all the goodness of the Cajun cream sauce. The red snapper provides a delicate, flaky texture that pairs wonderfully with the plump, juicy shrimp. The sauce is rich, tangy, and just the right amount of spice, creating a balanced, flavorful bite in every spoonful.
Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a hearty and flavorful meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. It’s a comforting yet elegant combination of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
