Honey Butter Cajun Shrimp with Smoked Gouda Grits

Step 1

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them into a bowl. Season the shrimp with the cajun seasoning and gently toss to coat. Cover the bowl with a lid/plastic wrap and transfer to the refrigerator to marinate while you make the grits.

Step 2

Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan or large pot over medium-high heat; combine the stock, 1 cup of milk, and grits together. Stir the mixture together and let it come to a boil, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3

Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat to the medium-low and continue cooking, stirring the mixture every so often. Allow the grits to cook up until you see all the liquid is absorbed and the grits become soft and tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4

Then sprinkle in the cheese along with the butter and remaining 1 cup of milk. Stir everything together very well until all the cheese has melted through and everything is combined. Season the grits with salt/pepper, to taste. Note: keep the grits on the lowest stove setting to keep warm or remove from heat while you make the shrimp.

Step 5

Heat a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat and add in the butter. Once melted, add the shrimp in a single layer- careful not to overcrowd the pan, work in batches, if needed. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the flesh is pink and opaque. Then transfer all the cooked shrimp to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 6

Add the shallot into the skillet and sauté until tender, about 2-3 minutes. Then add in the garlic and continue cooking until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the honey along with the lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir everything together until combined. Allow the sauce to come up to a slight boil and then remove from heat.

Step 7

Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss together to fully coat all the shrimp in the honey butter sauce.

Step 8

Serve immediately by placing the gouda grits into bowls, and top with the honey butter cajun shrimp and any residual pan sauce drippings. Garnish with fresh herbs and a lemon slice, if desired. Enjoy!