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Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Casserole Recipe

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4.1 from 60 reviews

This Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Casserole combines creamy, cheesy Southern-style grits with spiced sautéed shrimp and a vibrant mix of fresh herbs and vegetables, creating a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal perfect for a hearty dinner.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Cheesy Grits:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 quart of milk
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup Quick Grits (or traditional grits)
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Shrimp Topping:

  • 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Creole seasoning
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 large red pepper, large diced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha hot chili sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheesy grits: Using a double boiler, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter. Add 1 quart of milk, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 cup of quick grits to the melted butter. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it becomes very thick, about 20 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted.
  2. Whip the grits: Remove the grits from heat and beat them on high speed with a mixer for 5 minutes to make them creamy and airy.
  3. Assemble the base layer: Transfer the whipped grits into a greased 8 x 11-inch casserole dish. You can refrigerate the grits at this point if you plan to prepare the shrimp later.
  4. Season the shrimp: Sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons Creole seasoning evenly over the peeled and deveined shrimp. Let the shrimp rest for a few minutes to absorb the seasoning.
  5. Sauté the garlic and shrimp: Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté 1 minced garlic clove for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the shrimp turns pink and is just cooked through.
  6. Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped green onions, 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1/2 large diced red pepper, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon Sriracha hot chili sauce, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook and stir for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors before removing from heat.
  7. Reheat and serve: Gently reheat the grits if chilled. Spoon the shrimp mixture over the creamy grits in the casserole dish, and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can use traditional grits if quick grits are unavailable but expect a longer cooking time.
  • The recipe can be made ahead by preparing the grits and refrigerating before adding the shrimp topping.
  • Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the heat level according to your preference.
  • A double boiler helps prevent the grits from scorching; if unavailable, use low heat and stir frequently.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American