This Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole is everything you love about traditional Southern shrimp and grits, reimagined into a rich, baked dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. It’s packed with juicy shrimp, cheesy grits, colorful vegetables, and bold Cajun flavor — all baked to golden, bubbly perfection under a cheddar crust.
Ideal for brunch, weeknight dinners, or family gatherings, this casserole combines comfort food with restaurant-quality taste, all in one pan.
What Makes This Casserole So Special?
Shrimp and grits are a beloved dish across the American South, often served as a plated meal with creamy grits as the base and sautéed shrimp on top. This recipe turns that traditional presentation into a casserole, where everything is baked together for even more flavor and convenience. The result? A creamy, savory, cheesy bake with a crispy cheddar top that’s as indulgent as it is easy to prepare.
Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy shrimp, or you want a meal that feels comforting and upscale at the same time, this casserole delivers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe yields 6 servings and is designed to be both rich in flavor and easy to make. Below is a breakdown of the ingredients and their roles in building layers of taste and texture.
Base Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup grits (not instant or quick-cooking)
- 4 cups chicken broth – adds savory depth to the grits
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – divided for creaminess and crust
- 1 cup heavy cream – for smooth, velvety grits
- 2 tablespoons butter – for sautéing and flavor
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper – adds sweetness and color
- 1/2 cup diced onion – for aroma and body
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – infuses bold flavor
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning – spicy and smoky
- Salt and pepper to taste – always season to your preference
- Green onions, chopped – for a fresh, peppery garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures easy removal and cleanup.
Cook the Grits
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent lumps.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thickened and creamy.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and aromatic.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables and season with Cajun seasoning. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove from heat.
Make It Creamy
Return to the pot of cooked grits and stir in the heavy cream along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the grits are silky smooth.
Combine and Transfer
Gently fold the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the grits. Stir until everything is evenly distributed, then pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish.
Add the Cheddar Crust
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, covering it evenly.
Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden.
Rest and Garnish
Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a full meal in itself, but here are some great sides and pairings to take it to the next level:
- A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed collard greens or sautéed kale
- Cornbread or garlic toast for dipping
- A light sparkling wine, citrusy white, or cold beer
It also works beautifully as a brunch entrée alongside scrambled eggs or fruit salad.
Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits Casserole
- Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry to prevent watery results.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep an eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they’re pink.
- Use Stone-Ground Grits if Possible: For a heartier texture and deeper flavor, opt for stone-ground grits and extend the cooking time as needed.
- Cheddar Cheese Choice Matters: Sharp cheddar adds depth and balances the creamy richness. You can experiment with smoked cheddar for an extra kick.
- Add a Dash of Hot Sauce: If you love spice, a splash of Louisiana hot sauce in the grits or on top after baking adds the perfect heat.
Variations You Can Try
- Andouille Sausage Addition: Stir in sliced and cooked Cajun sausage for a meatier dish.
- Tomato Twist: Add diced tomatoes or a tablespoon of tomato paste for an umami boost.
- Cheese Blend: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra creaminess and flavor variety.
- Seafood Mix: Combine shrimp with scallops or crab for a seafood-lovers’ dream casserole.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-fat cheese if you’re watching calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes and bake as directed.
Can I freeze shrimp and grits casserole?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Medium to large shrimp work best — about 31/40 count. Avoid tiny salad shrimp, as they overcook easily and disappear into the grits.
Do I have to use chicken broth?
Chicken broth adds flavor, but you can substitute vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust seasoning accordingly.
Can I make this casserole without cheese?
Cheese is a key component in the creamy texture and crust, but if you’re dairy-free, you can try a plant-based cheese alternative or skip the crust and focus on the creamy interior.
Is this dish spicy?
The level of heat depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you prefer it mild, use a low-sodium, mild blend. If you like heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust brings the soul of Southern cooking into one simple, satisfying dish. With bold spices, a rich cheesy base, and plump, juicy shrimp, it’s comfort food done right. It works beautifully for casual dinners, weekend brunches, or potluck gatherings — and it’s a dish that invites second helpings every time.
With easy customization options and reliable, crowd-pleasing flavors, this casserole will quickly earn a spot in your favorite go-to meals. Give it a try and taste the heart of the South in every bite.