Red Snapper and Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce: A Southern Delight

When it comes to Southern cuisine, few dishes embody comfort and indulgence quite like shrimp and grits. This recipe elevates that classic by adding the delicate flavors of red snapper and a rich Cajun cream sauce. The result is a dish that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this meal will surely impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.

In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of making this delightful dish, along with helpful tips and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into the world of Southern cooking!

Ingredients

For the Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt, to taste

For the Red Snapper & Shrimp

• 2 red snapper fillets
• 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cajun Cream Sauce

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the Grits

Begin by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot.

1. Slowly stir in the stone-ground grits to avoid lumps, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Allow the grits to simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once thickened, add 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup butter, stirring continuously until the mixture is creamy.
4. Season with salt to taste, then remove from heat and set the grits aside.

Step 2: Season the Red Snapper & Shrimp

Pat the red snapper fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels.

1. Rub 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning over both sides of the red snapper fillets and shrimp.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Red Snapper Fillets

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

1. Place the seasoned red snapper fillets into the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until the fish is golden brown and cooked through.
2. Once the fish flakes easily with a fork, remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the shrimp.

1. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
2. Remove the shrimp from the skillet once fully cooked and set aside with the snapper.

Step 5: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.

1. Add 1 clove of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
5. Once thickened, remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

To serve, spoon the creamy grits into bowls.

1. Place the seared red snapper fillets and cooked shrimp on top of the grits.
2. Generously drizzle the Cajun cream sauce over the seafood.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Adjust Spice Level: The level of spice can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of Cajun seasoning.
• Creamy Grits: Ensure that the grits are smooth and creamy; adding more milk during cooking can help achieve the perfect consistency.
• Flavor Enhancement: Cooking the shrimp and fish in the same pan enhances the flavor, as the seafood juices mix into the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed greens, such as collard greens or kale, to balance the richness of the grits and seafood. A slice of crusty French bread also complements the creamy sauce, allowing you to savor every last drop. Serve this meal as a hearty dinner for four, and for a complete Southern experience, accompany it with sweet iced tea.

Tips for Success

• Shrimp and Fish Cooking Tip: Ensure the shrimp is cooked just until pink and opaque to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery. Similarly, the red snapper should be flaky but moist, so keep an eye on it while searing.
• Grits Tip: For extra flavor, cook the grits in a mixture of water and chicken broth or even add some cheddar cheese for a richer taste.
• Cajun Sauce Variation: If you prefer a tangier sauce, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or white wine to the cream sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 38g
• Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

1. Can I substitute red snapper with another fish?

Yes, you can substitute red snapper with other white fish like tilapia, cod, or sea bass. Just ensure the fillet thickness is similar to avoid altering the cooking time too much.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the spice level, add extra Cajun seasoning, or mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.

3. Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground?

Yes, instant grits can be used to speed up the cooking process, but they will lack the texture and depth of flavor that stone-ground grits provide. Adjust the liquid amounts as per the package instructions for instant grits.

4. What other sides go well with this dish?

Besides sautéed greens, you can serve roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus, or even a simple side salad for a lighter option.

5. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the Cajun cream sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little cream if needed to restore its consistency.

Conclusion

Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce is a truly indulgent Southern-inspired dish that brings together bold flavors, creamy textures, and the satisfying taste of seafood. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking to impress guests, this meal is sure to be a hit. The combination of Cajun spice, creamy grits, and a rich sauce creates a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Enjoy this delightful Southern classic, and don’t forget to add your own twist to it with extra garnishes or sides!

Incorporating a few personal touches or family traditions can make this meal even more special. Happy cooking!