A Southern classic made keto! Juicy Cajun shrimp sautéed in butter and garlic are served over creamy, cheesy cauliflower grits for the perfect low-carb comfort meal. This version uses half the usual grits batch for a lighter, lower-carb dish that’s still rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
In a large stockpot, fill the bottom with about 2 inches of water. 1 head cauliflower florets over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm.
Make the Grits:
Drain well, then lightly mash or pulse cauliflower in a food processor — leave it chunky for that classic grits texture. Stir in 2 oz cream cheese, 1 cup about 4 oz / 112 g shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tbsp 14 g butter, ¾ tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Cover to keep warm.
Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:
In a small ramekin, mix 1/2 tsp paprika,1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp roasted red pepper flakes, and 1/4 tsp black or white pepper.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 garlic cloves , then 1 lb shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Make the Sauce:
Add the remaining 1 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1 1/2 tsp Frank’s RedHot , and 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershiresauce . Stir to coat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the sauce slightly thickens.
Assemble and Serve:
Spoon cheesy cauliflower grits into bowls, top with shrimp and sauce, and garnish with 1 green onion.
Notes
🦐Serving Ideas
Top with sliced green onions for a fresh bite.
Add extra cream if you love saucy grits — we always do
Leftover grits reheat beautifully with a splash of cream or butter.
LGJ’s NoteThis dish feels like a Creole hug. When Scott nailed the sauce-and-grits balance, I realized you really don’t miss traditional grits at all — the flavor is the star.Storage + Reheat Tips
Grits reheat best low and slow with added cream.
Shrimp are best eaten fresh but can be reheated gently.
Macros / Net Carbs
~6g net carbs (based on our ingredients)
Always check your labels for cheese and broth.
Final ThoughtsFood should be fun, bold, and a little cheeky — and this recipe proves keto food can feel indulgent without slowing your progress. Turn on some jazz, grab your shrimp, and let good things simmer in your kitchen. 🎷✨