Savory Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake
Indulge in this decadent Savory Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake, a delightful blend of flavors that brings together the creamy richness of cheese with tender shrimp, all nestled in a comforting bed of grits. Perfect as a centerpiece for a delightful brunch with friends or as a light yet satisfying supper alongside a fresh salad, this casserole is sure to impress. Inspired by the southern classic, it's a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual dinner parties.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken broth
4 cups (bring to a boil)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (add to broth)
regular grits
1 cup (stir into boiling broth)
sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded, divided)
Monterey Jack pepper cheese
1 cup (shredded)
butter or margarine
2 tablespoons (melt in a skillet)
green onions
6 (chopped)
green bell pepper
1 (chopped)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
fresh small shrimp
1 lb (peeled and cooked)
diced tomatoes and green chilies
10 ounces (drained)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (add to mixture)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (add to mixture)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring continuously.
2
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let simmer for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the grits are thick and creamy.
3
Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the Monterey Jack pepper cheese until fully melted and combined. Set aside.
4
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped green onions, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
5
In a large bowl, gently fold together the sautéed vegetable mixture, cheese-infused grits, peeled and cooked shrimp, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper until evenly combined.
6
Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish and pour the shrimp and grits mixture into it, spreading evenly across the dish.
7
Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a deliciously cheesy crust.
8
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake?
This dish is a decadent Southern-inspired casserole that blends creamy grits, melted cheese, and tender shrimp into a comforting meal.
What type of grits are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of regular grits.
How much chicken broth is needed?
You will need 4 cups of chicken broth to cook the grits.
What kind of cheese is used in the bake?
The recipe uses a combination of sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack pepper cheese.
How much shrimp is required?
The recipe requires 1 lb of fresh small shrimp that has been peeled and cooked.
What vegetables are included in the mixture?
The bake includes chopped green onions, a green bell pepper, and minced garlic.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F for this recipe.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake the casserole for 30 to 45 minutes until it is bubbly and golden brown.
Do I need to drain the tomatoes?
Yes, the 10 ounces of diced tomatoes and green chilies should be drained before being added.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 2-quart baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use either butter or margarine to sauté the vegetables.
How many green onions are needed?
The recipe calls for 6 chopped green onions.
How long should I simmer the grits?
The grits should be simmered on low heat for approximately 20 minutes until thick and creamy.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe uses 1 minced garlic clove.
Is there a specific way to add the grits to the broth?
You should gradually whisk the grits into the rolling boil to avoid clumps.
When do I add the cheese to the grits?
Stir in the cheese after removing the thickened grits from the heat.
How much cheddar cheese is used for the topping?
Reserve 1/4 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to sprinkle on top before baking.
How long should the vegetables be sautéed?
Sauté the green onions, bell pepper, and garlic for about 5 minutes until tender.
What seasonings are added to the final mixture?
In addition to the salted broth, the mixture is seasoned with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Yes, it is described as a perfect centerpiece for a delightful brunch with friends.
Is the Monterey Jack cheese spicy?
The Monterey Jack pepper cheese provides a mild heat, complemented by the green chilies in the tomatoes.
Can I serve this as a main dinner course?
Yes, it makes a satisfying supper, especially when served alongside a fresh salad.
How do I know when the bake is done?
It is finished when the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top has turned golden brown.
Should the shrimp be raw when added to the mix?
No, the recipe specifies that the shrimp should be peeled and cooked before being folded into the mixture.
What color bell pepper is used?
One green bell pepper is used in this recipe.
Does this recipe contain sodium?
Yes, it contains salt added at two stages and uses chicken broth which typically contains sodium.
How is the cheese prepared for the recipe?
Both the sharp cheddar and the Monterey Jack pepper cheese should be shredded.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, as long as they are thawed, peeled, and cooked before they are added to the casserole.
Is this considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food due to its creamy, cheesy, and hearty nature.
What is the inspiration for this dish?
This recipe is inspired by the classic Southern tradition of shrimp and grits.