Description
This Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole features tender shrimp folded into rich, cheesy grits topped with a golden cheddar crust. It’s a comforting Southern-inspired dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of creamy textures and flavorful shrimp.
Ingredients
Scale
Grits Base
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Shrimp Mixture
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook the Grits: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup stone-ground grits to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook until thickened, about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep grits smooth.
- Make Grits Creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons butter, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper into the cooked grits. Mix until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Shrimp with Grits: Fold the cooked shrimp, along with the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, into the creamy grits mixture ensuring even distribution.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the shrimp and grits mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread evenly and top with 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese to form the crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheddar cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley before serving to add color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor.
- Cayenne pepper is optional but adds a subtle spicy kick to the dish.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may be less creamy.
- Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid overcooking and toughness.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving for convenience.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
