Description
A comforting and flavorful Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Casserole combining creamy grits with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, fresh shrimp, and a medley of sautéed vegetables, baked to perfection for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Grits Base
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup regular grits
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (4 ounces)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack pepper cheese (4 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
Vegetables and Shrimp
- 6 green onions, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 lb fresh small shrimp, peeled and cooked
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Bring broth to boil: In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups chicken broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook grits: Stir in 1 cup grits, cover the saucepan, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.
- Mix cheeses into grits: Remove from heat and stir the cooked grits with 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese until melted and well combined.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter, then add chopped green onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Combine all ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the sautéed vegetable mixture, cheesy grits, cooked shrimp, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper until evenly incorporated.
- Prepare casserole dish: Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the shrimp and grits mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese topping is melted and slightly golden.
Notes
- Use freshly peeled and cooked shrimp for best flavor, but frozen cooked shrimp may be substituted if thawed properly.
- Adjust cheese types or amounts based on preference – smoked gouda or pepper jack can add different flavor profiles.
- Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well to prevent excess liquid making the casserole too watery.
- You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking; add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
