If you’re craving a comforting, Southern-inspired dish that brings creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors together effortlessly, you’re going to love this Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe. It’s a perfect marriage of tender shrimp nestled in luscious, cheesy grits, all baked to golden perfection under a flavorful cheddar crust. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this casserole feels fancy without fuss and will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each adding their own magic to create a creamy, flavorful casserole with the right balance of spice, richness, and texture.
- Quick-cooking grits: The base of our casserole, providing that signature creamy texture in just minutes.
- Water: Used to cook the grits smoothly and lighten the creaminess.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle, warming spice that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Garlic powder: Lends a subtle savory depth that elevates the entire dish.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): A little kick of heat to awaken your taste buds if you like some spice.
- Whole milk: For richness and smoothness in the grits.
- Heavy cream: Brings extra decadence and silky texture to the casserole.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (divided): Provides that melty, tangy crust on top and creaminess within.
- Butter: Adds a luscious, velvety finish and helps marry all the flavors.
- Raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped): The star protein, tender and flavorful when baked into the grits.
- Green onions (sliced): Bright, fresh notes that cut through the richness.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon or diced smoked sausage (optional): Adds smoky, salty bites that bring another layer of deliciousness.
- Large eggs (lightly beaten): The binder that helps the casserole maintain its perfect, sliceable texture.
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing: Ensures your casserole comes out cleanly every time.
How to Make Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray so your casserole will bake evenly and release easily after cooking. This simple step helps set you up for success right from the get-go.
Step 2: Cook the Grits
Bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the quick-cooking grits, then reduce the heat to low. Stir frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until the grits have thickened into a smooth, creamy base. This is the foundation your casserole needs, so take your time stirring — no lumps here!
Step 3: Enrich the Grits
Once thickened, stir in garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Add in whole milk, heavy cream, butter, and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring gently until everything melts together beautifully into a rich, creamy mixture. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 4: Combine the Shrimp and Mix-ins
After the grits have cooled just a bit, stir the lightly beaten eggs into the creamy mixture — this helps bind the casserole as it bakes. Fold in the chopped shrimp, sliced green onions, and if you’re using bacon or sausage, toss them in here too. This combination ensures your casserole is packed with savory, juicy goodness in every bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the shrimp and grits mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top gently. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the surface to create that signature cheddar crust. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is set and the cheese topping is golden and bubbling with delicious flavor.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow your casserole to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period lets the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right, making for neat, satisfying portions every time.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or extra sliced green onions are simple garnishes that brighten the dish visually and add a fresh punch to each bite. If feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of hot sauce can add a spicy zing that perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy base.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads for contrast or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. Consider serving with a side of sautéed garlic spinach or steamed asparagus for a pop of color and a nutritious balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for elegant single servings or scoop portions into warm bread bowls for a creative twist. You can even layer it with caramelized onions or a splash of lemon zest on top to add extra depth and a hint of brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to meld overnight, making it even tastier for your next meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Wrap the cooled dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through or rewarm the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil until warmed evenly, about 20 minutes. Removing the foil for the last 5 minutes helps refresh that scrumptious cheddar crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just thaw and pat the shrimp dry before chopping and adding to the casserole. If using frozen shrimp, sautéing them briefly before mixing in can enhance their flavor and texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Since grits are made from ground corn, this casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free or use substitutes?
You can substitute the milk, cream, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different. Using vegan cheese and plant-based milks can work, but the signature cheddar crust might not brown the same way.
What if I’m not a fan of spicy food?
No problem! Simply omit the cayenne pepper to keep the casserole mild but still full of wonderful savory flavors from the garlic and cheese.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or even creamed corn can add lovely texture and flavor. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep the casserole from becoming too watery.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about serving up a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish like this Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe — it’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy night in, this recipe brings comfort and joy with every bite. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with a Cheddar Crust is a comforting Southern classic. This dish features tender shrimp blended into creamy, cheesy grits, topped with a golden cheddar crust and baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or weeknight dinners, it’s a flavorful, hearty meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Grits Base
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
Shrimp Mixture
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or diced smoked sausage (optional)
Cheese Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided: 1 cup for grits mixture, 1/2 cup for topping)
Other
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using nonstick spray or butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Cook Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the 1 cup of quick-cooking grits, then reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring often, for 5–7 minutes until thickened and creamy.
- Add Seasonings and Dairy: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using), 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon butter, and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate Eggs and Shrimp: Remove the grits from heat and let them cool slightly. Then stir in the lightly beaten eggs. Fold in the chopped shrimp, sliced green onions, and optional cooked bacon or sausage gently to combine evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the grits and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the oven for 30–35 minutes or until the casserole is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows it to set further and makes serving easier. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving for convenience.
- For extra flavor, briefly sauté the shrimp in butter before folding them into the grits mixture.
- This dish is great for brunch, holidays, or a comforting weeknight dinner.
