Shrimp & Grits Casserole Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the cooked shrimp mixture into the creamy grits, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- 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.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- 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
