Easy Shrimp and Grits Casserole for Busy Weeknights

If you're a fan of comfort food, then Shrimp and Grits Casserole is a dish that should be on your radar. This Southern classic melds the succulent shrimp flavors with the creamy richness of grits, all baked together in a cheesy casserole that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a get-together with friends, this dish will impress.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to whip up this comforting casserole:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (source from your local farmers' market or specialty food store for best quality)
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or sustainably sourced frozen shrimp)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Grits

1. Boil Water: Bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil in a large saucepan.
2. Cook Grits: Gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until grits are thick and creamy.
3. Add Butter and Cheese: Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and well combined. Set aside.

Cooking the Shrimp

1. Season Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Cook Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Layer Grits: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cooked grits evenly in the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Add Shrimp: Arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the grits layer.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the shrimp and grits.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Shrimp and Grits Casserole, consider these serving ideas:

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Side Dishes:
• A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
• A slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid, and reheat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Shrimp and Grits Casserole as much as we do. We'd love to hear your feedback and see your creations! Share your experiences with us by tagging [Brand Name] on social media. Have questions or need more tips? Drop us a message—our community of seafood lovers and home cooks is here to help!

Happy cooking!