A comforting Southern-style dish featuring crispy catfish, succulent shrimp, savory halal beef sausage, and rich creamy cheddar grits. This bowl brings together bold flavors and luxurious textures for a hearty, soul-warming meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, crispy, and savory. The cheddar grits offer a smooth, rich base, while the catfish provides crunch and flavor. The shrimp and sausage add depth and heartiness, creating a complete, satisfying meal ideal for brunch or dinner. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Creamy Cheddar Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Catfish

• 2 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for pan-frying (about 1/4 cup)

For the Shrimp & Sausage

• 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup sliced halal beef sausage
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the grits:
   In a medium pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the grits and reduce the heat to low. Stir frequently and cook for about 20–25 minutes until thick. Stir in the milk, butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking on low until creamy. Keep warm.
2. Season and coat the catfish:
   In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each catfish fillet in the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Cook the catfish:
   Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the catfish fillets and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
4. Cook the sausage and shrimp:
   In another skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced beef sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Add shrimp, garlic, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
5. Assemble:
   Spoon a generous portion of creamy cheddar grits into bowls. Top with shrimp, sausage, and a piece of crispy catfish. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: about 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Replace catfish with tilapia or whiting if preferred.
• Add sautéed spinach or collard greens for extra color and nutrients.
• Make the grits spicier by adding cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
• Substitute cheddar with smoked gouda for a deeper, smokier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover grits and proteins separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat grits on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess.
Reheat shrimp, sausage, and catfish in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving catfish to maintain its crispiness.

FAQs

How do I keep my catfish crispy?

Ensure the oil is hot before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan to help maintain crispiness.

Can I use quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground?

Yes, but they will cook faster and may be less creamy. Adjust liquid amounts as needed.

What type of cheese works best for cheddar grits?

Medium or sharp cheddar melts well and adds rich flavor.

Can I make the grits ahead of time?

Yes, reheat with additional milk or water and stir until smooth again.

How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2–3 minutes.

Can I bake the catfish instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mild unless you add chili flakes or additional spices.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free milk, dairy-free butter, and omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

What can I serve with this dish?

Fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or cornbread complement it well.

Conclusion

This Catfish, Shrimp & Sausage Grits with Creamy Cheddar Grits recipe brings together comforting textures and bold flavors in one satisfying bowl. Whether served for brunch or dinner, it delivers richness and Southern warmth with every bite. Enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

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