Experience the ultimate Southern comfort food with this Shrimp & Grits Casserole. Creamy, cheesy grits blend perfectly with tender, flavorful shrimp and a medley of sautéed vegetables. This baked casserole transforms the classic shrimp and grits into a convenient, make-ahead dish perfect for brunch, dinner, or family gatherings. With its rich textures and irresistible aroma, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite.
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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
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook grits: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and water to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat, and simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Add cream and cheese: Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, butter, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Cook shrimp: Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 3–4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked.
- Combine: Fold shrimp and vegetable mixture into the prepared grits.
- Bake: Pour mixture into the greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm.
Pro Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day ahead; add 5–10 minutes to baking time if cold from the fridge.
- Cheese Upgrade: Mix sharp cheddar with smoked Gouda for a richer flavor.
- Shrimp Care: Avoid overcooking shrimp to maintain tenderness.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Why This Recipe Works
- Combines creamy, cheesy grits with tender shrimp for a balanced flavor.
- Easy to make in advance for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Fully customizable with spices, vegetables, and protein options.
Substitutions & Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Meat Lovers: Include crumbled bacon or andouille sausage.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with mushrooms, zucchini, or other veggies.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, or green onions enhance freshness.
- Cheese Upgrade: Sprinkle Parmesan or blue cheese on top before baking.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
- Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes; Microwave: 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
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Serving Ideas
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor at the table.
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant grits?
Yes, but adjust cooking time; texture may be slightly softer.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight before baking.
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How do I prevent grits from clumping?
Whisk constantly while gradually adding grits to boiling liquid.
Is this dish spicy?
Mildly, due to Cajun seasoning. Adjust spices to your taste.
Can I use stone-ground or steel-cut grits?
Yes, but cooking time will be longer; follow package instructions.
This Shrimp & Grits Casserole is the perfect blend of Southern tradition and modern convenience. Creamy grits, tender shrimp, and melted cheese create a comforting, flavorful dish ideal for brunch, dinner, or special gatherings. Its versatility, make-ahead convenience, and customizable flavors make it a must-have recipe for every kitchen.
Ultimate Shrimp & Grits Casserole Recipe
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 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook grits: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and water to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat, and simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Add cream and cheese: Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, butter, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Cook shrimp: Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 3–4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked.
- Combine: Fold shrimp and vegetable mixture into the prepared grits.
- Bake: Pour mixture into the greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust spices according to your family’s preference.
- For richer flavor, swap chicken broth for seafood stock.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for an elegant touch.
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