Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe

If you’ve ever indulged in soul-soothing Southern cuisine, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe. It takes that beloved classic—shrimp and grits—and transforms it into an irresistible, comforting casserole layered with creamy grits, tender shrimp, and a perfectly golden cheddar crust that melts in your mouth. This dish balances comforting creaminess and a subtle kick of spice, all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or just craving rich, cozy flavors, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in building the texture and flavor that make this casserole so unforgettable. From the creamy grits base to the sharp punch of cheddar on top, it’s a straightforward list with remarkable results.

• Stone-ground grits: These provide the perfect hearty, slightly coarse texture that holds all the creamy goodness together.
• Water: The base for cooking the grits, ensuring they become tender and fluffy without losing their bite.
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: This melts into a golden, flavorful crust that adds a delicious tang and appealing color.
• Shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and juicy, that infuses the dish with a delicate seafood sweetness.
• Butter: Divided use enhances richness—melting into the grits and helping sauté the aromatics and shrimp.
• Diced onion: Builds a sweet, savory foundation when sautéed before combining with shrimp and grits.
• Minced garlic: Adds depth and a subtle kick that wakes up the flavors beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Turns the grits into luscious creaminess, making every bite velvety.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Layers in a nutty undertone that complements the cheddar and cream perfectly.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): Gives a gentle heat that heightens the dish’s flavor without overpowering it.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning essentials that balance and enhance all the ingredients.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the casserole with fresh color and a hint of herbal freshness as garnish.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly as the flavors meld together wonderfully.

Step 2: Cook the Grits

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Slowly whisk in your stone-ground grits to avoid lumps, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let them cook gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring now and then to prevent sticking and to achieve that creamy but slightly textured consistency that makes grits so special.

Step 3: Enrich the Grits

Once your grits have thickened, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and some salt and black pepper to taste. This transforms the grits into a decadent, creamy base that will tie all the flavors together.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

While your grits finish cooking, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a skillet. Toss in your diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing them for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step builds a savory, aromatic foundation for the shrimp.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a touch of cayenne pepper if you like some gentle heat. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp are just pink and tender—perfectly juicy and flavorful.

Step 6: Combine Shrimp with Grits

Fold the cooked shrimp and their savory sautéed onions into your creamy grits mixture. This mix is the heart of your casserole, combining lush textures and savory seafood flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Assemble and Add Cheddar Crust

Pour the shrimp and grits mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top in an even layer. This cheese layer will melt into a beautiful, golden crust that adds both texture and a burst of tangy, rich flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheddar cheese to melt completely and turn a gorgeous golden brown—this is your signal the casserole is done and ready to wow your taste buds.

Step 9: Garnish Before Serving

After taking your casserole out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and herbaceous freshness that balances the creamy richness.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens this rich casserole beautifully, while a dash of extra cayenne or cracked black pepper can add a fresh kick if you want to spice things up. A squeeze of lemon on the side also works wonders, adding a subtle zing that lifts the seafood flavors to new heights.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands tall on its own but pairs fantastic with a crisp, fresh salad to cut through the richness—think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans also complement the creamy texture and add vibrant color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this casserole in individual ramekins to impress guests with personalized portions and an elegant look. You can also try layering the casserole with extra vegetables or even topping it with crunchy fried shallots for added texture and flavor excitement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors again without extra effort.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole, though the texture of the shrimp may change slightly after thawing. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals for even heating, so that creamy texture stays intact and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground?

While quick-cooking grits will reduce the cooking time, stone-ground grits provide the best texture and flavor for this casserole’s creamy, hearty base. If using quick-cooking grits, adjust cooking times accordingly but expect a slightly different consistency.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your cheese and seasonings to make sure no hidden gluten ingredients have been added.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter. Keep in mind the casserole won’t be quite as rich or creamy, but it will still taste delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To keep the casserole vegetarian, simply skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The creamy grits and cheddar crust will keep the dish satisfying and full of flavor.

How spicy does the cayenne pepper make the dish?

The cayenne pepper adds a mild heat that gently warms the palate without overwhelming the flavors. It’s optional, so if you prefer no spice, you can leave it out or add just a pinch for subtle depth.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving the Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe a try—it’s the kind of comforting meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Rich, cheesy, and packed with tender shrimp, this casserole brings together Southern soul food in a way that’s easy to make and share. Dive in, savor every bite, and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

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