Healthy Cajun Shrimp and Cauliflower Grits (Low Carb Comfort Food)

Jump to Recipe

Shrimp and grits was one of my favorite comfort foods growing up in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. That creamy, cheesy bowl topped with spicy Cajun shrimp always felt like a warm hug after a long day. As I started focusing more on my health, I knew I needed a lighter version that still tasted like the real thing.

This healthy twist uses riced cauliflower instead of traditional corn grits, but don’t worry... t’s still creamy, cheesy, and full of Southern flavor. Unsweetened almond milk, Greek yogurt, and reduced-fat cheddar give it that rich texture without all the extra saturated fat. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep lunches, or when you want comfort food that actually fits your goals.

Best of all, this recipe is family-friendly for our house of four, easy to customize, and for those who love healthy comfort food. Whether you’re doing Lean & Green-style eating, watching carbs, or just trying to eat better without giving up flavor, this one’s a keeper ❤️

To make it: Start off by cooking your shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning in a medium sized skillet sprayed with cooking spray. Then add lemon juice and chicken broth. Let simmer for about a minute and set aside.

In another skillet, melt butter and cook riced cauliflower for about 5 minutes. Then add salt and unsweetened almond or cashew milk. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Add sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is completely melted. Equally portion out the grits on two plates. Top grits with shrimp and sliced green onions. Enjoy this yummy Southern favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Healthy comfort food with real Southern flavor

✔ Only 320 calories and high protein

✔ Low carb & cholesterol-friendly

✔ Ready in 25 minutes

✔ Meal-prep friendly

✔ Easy swaps for picky kids or husbands 😆

✔ Works for Lean & Green or regular healthy eating

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

Is this recipe good for weight loss?

Yes. It’s high protein, low carb, and fits a healthy meal plan.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes. Store shrimp and cauliflower grits separately up to 3 days.

What if my family doesn’t like spicy food?

Use half the Cajun seasoning or mild seasoning.

Cajun Shrimp and Cauliflower Grits

Print Recipe Pin It For Later

Ingredients:

• 1 lb raw, peeled, deveined shrimp
• 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• Cooking spray
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 1/2 cups finely riced cauliflower
• 1/2 cup unsweetened original almond or cashew milk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 1/3 cup reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions

Directions:

1. Season the shrimp.
   In a large bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
   
   

2. Cook the shrimp.
   Spray a medium skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
   
   

3. Make the pan sauce.
   Add lemon juice and chicken broth to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan and simmer 1 minute. Remove shrimp from heat and set aside.
   
   

4. Start the cauliflower grits.
   In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add riced cauliflower and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes until softened.
   
   

5. Make them creamy.
   Add almond milk and salt. Cook another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cauliflower is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
   
   

6. Add cheese and sour cream.
   Remove skillet from heat. Stir in sour cream and shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
   
   

7. Assemble the dish.
   Divide cauliflower grits between plates. Top with shrimp and spoon over any pan sauce.

8. Garnish and serve.
   Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Make 2 Servings

Each serving provides = 1 Leanest, 3 Greens, 3 Condiments and 2 Healthy Fats 

Calories: 320, Protein: 35 g, Carbs, 10 g , Fat: 15 g

Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on brands used, ingredient substitutions, and serving size.

Original recipe from Optavia

Print Recipe