Shrimp & Grits Casserole Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine: Fold the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the cooled cheesy grits until evenly distributed.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/shrimp-and-grits-casserole-recipe/
