Dive into the heart of Southern comfort food with our Easy Baked Shrimp Grits Casserole! This dish combines the creamy goodness of grits with succulent shrimp, all baked to perfection and topped with a sprinkle of green onions. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply craving a taste of the South, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. Ready to impress your guests and elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reducing heat to low. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook grits for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently until they become thick and creamy.
- Remove grits from heat and stir in 1/2 cup milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- In a separate skillet, sauté the peeled and deveined shrimp over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Season shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the prepared grits into the greased baking dish. Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly across the top of the grits.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the casserole for added flavor and color.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy your Southern-style Baked Shrimp Grits Casserole!
Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Perfect Grits: Stir the grits continuously while cooking to achieve that creamy texture. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using chicken or seafood broth instead of water.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or spinach to the grits before baking.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a pop of color and a fresh flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the casserole.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful Southern classic!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 220mg
