Southern Fried Catfish with Cajun Shrimp & Cheesy Grits

Ingredients

For the Catfish

2 large catfish fillets

1 cup cornmeal

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup buttermilk

Oil for frying

For the Cajun Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

¼ cup chicken broth

½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped

For the Cheesy Grits

1 cup quick grits

4 cups water or chicken broth

2 tbsp butter

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Cheesy Grits

Bring water or broth to a boil.

Add the grits and reduce heat. Cook about 5 minutes until thick.

Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.

2️⃣ Prepare the Catfish

Soak catfish fillets in buttermilk 15–30 minutes.

Mix cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a dish.

Coat the catfish evenly in the mixture.

3️⃣ Fry the Catfish

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Fry catfish 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Drain on paper towels.

4️⃣ Cook the Cajun Shrimp

Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet.

Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink.

Pour in chicken broth and simmer 1–2 minutes.

Sprinkle shredded cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce.

5️⃣ Assemble the Dish

Spoon cheesy grits onto a plate.

Top with Cajun shrimp and sauce.

Add the crispy fried catfish on the side or on top.

Garnish with parsley and extra Cajun seasoning.