Shrimp & Grits Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Savory and comforting, this Shrimp & Grits Casserole is a hearty dish that brings together tender shrimp, creamy grits, and a flavorful blend of vegetables and spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it combines Southern charm with easy, oven-baked convenience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth and water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
2. Step 2: Stir in the shredded cheese, heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Step 3: In a skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and paprika, then cook until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Step 5: Fold the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the grits until evenly combined.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top.
7. Step 7: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
8. Step 8: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir in a handful of cream cheese with the cheddar.
• Swap the bell pepper for diced celery or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
• Use smoked cheddar or a blend of cheeses for added depth of flavor.
• Fresh shrimp works best, but frozen shrimp thawed and patted dry can be used in a pinch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

What type of grits should I use?

Stone-ground or medium-ground grits work best for a creamy texture. Instant grits can be used but may affect the consistency slightly.

Shrimp & Grits Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 96 reviews

This Shrimp & Grits Casserole is a comforting Southern classic that combines creamy, cheesy grits with tender, flavorful shrimp and aromatic vegetables. Sautéed with Cajun spices and baked to golden perfection, this hearty dish delivers a rich, savory, and slightly spicy seafood experience perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Grits Base

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables and Shrimp

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing)
• Additional shredded cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits thicken and are creamy.
2. Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper until everything is melted and well combined. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and paprika over the shrimp. Cook for about 3–5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine: Fold the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the cooled cheesy grits until evenly distributed.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the grits and shrimp mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let it set for easier slicing and enhanced flavor melding.

Notes

• Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor.
• For milder heat, reduce or omit Cajun seasoning.
• The dish can be prepared a day ahead; refrigerate before baking and add a few extra minutes to cooking time.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a creamier casserole, add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream.

Keywords: shrimp and grits casserole, Southern recipe, Cajun shrimp, cheesy grits bake, seafood casserole, comfort food