Shrimp & Grits Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Savor the comforting flavors of this Shrimp & Grits Casserole, an easy twist on a Southern classic. Creamy grits combined with spicy shrimp make a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, bring chicken broth and water to a boil.
3. Step 3: Gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, butter, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
5. Step 5: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
6. Step 6: Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 3–4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
7. Step 7: Fold the shrimp mixture into the cooked grits.
8. Step 8: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
9. Step 9: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
10. Step 10: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture.
• Use medium or large shrimp depending on your preference; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a subtle kick.
• If you prefer creamier grits, stir in an extra splash of heavy cream before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To prevent drying out, cover with foil when reheating in the oven.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw completely, pat dry to remove excess moisture, and cook as directed for best results.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Shrimp & Grits Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 78 reviews

This Shrimp & Grits Casserole combines creamy, cheesy grits with tender, spicy shrimp for a comforting Southern-style dish. The quick-cooking grits are simmered in chicken broth and cream, then baked with shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices and topped with sharp cheddar cheese to create a rich, flavorful casserole perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Grits Base

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Shrimp Mixture

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Cook Grits: In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth and water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the quick-cooking grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often until the mixture thickens.
3. Add Cream and Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the grits become smooth and creamy.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Cook Shrimp: Add the raw shrimp to the skillet along with Cajun seasoning and paprika. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the cooked shrimp mixture into the creamy grits, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
7. Assemble Casserole: Pour the shrimp and grits mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing and serving.

Notes

• Use quick-cooking grits for the fastest preparation; regular grits will require a longer simmer time.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste depending on desired spice level.
• This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• For a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the texture will be less rich.

Keywords: Shrimp and grits, Shrimp casserole, Southern casserole, Cajun shrimp, Cheesy grits, Comfort food