Description
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this Blackened Fish and Cheese Grits recipe. Tender white fish fillets are coated in a spicy blackened seasoning and seared to perfection, served atop creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits for an irresistible, comforting meal with a kick.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Blackened Fish
- 4 white fish fillets (such as catfish, tilapia, or cod, about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or a mix of water and low-sodium chicken broth)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackened Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the blackened spice blend.
- Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil, then evenly coat each fillet with the blackened seasoning, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook the Fish: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Place the seasoned fish fillets in the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the exterior is blackened and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Prepare the Grits: While the fish cooks, bring water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, stirring frequently to prevent lumps, for 15 to 20 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Finish the Cheese Grits: Remove grits from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Serve: Spoon a generous bed of cheese grits onto plates, top with the blackened fish fillets, and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control how spicy the dish is.
- Use quick-cooking grits if you want a faster preparation; stone-ground grits provide a more authentic Southern texture.
- For a flavorful twist, substitute cheddar with smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
