Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust – Delicious Oven-Baked Southern Comfort

Name: Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp butter, divided; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust is more than just a dish. It is a love letter to Southern cooking, packed with rich flavors, smooth textures, and that irresistible golden cheddar topping. Whether you are hosting a Sunday brunch, bringing comfort food to a potluck, or simply craving something decadent on a weeknight, this casserole will meet and exceed your expectations.

At Recipes Tasteful, our passion for home cooking stems from childhood memories of family meals where love was served with every plate. On our About page, we share how this journey began in a small kitchen surrounded by cast iron skillets, buttery aromas, and handwritten recipe cards passed down through generations. That legacy inspired us to take a Southern classic like shrimp and grits and reimagine it into an easy baked version that retains all the heartwarming goodness while adding a cheesy crust that takes it to the next level. The result is this creamy shrimp and grits casserole, which feels both nostalgic and fresh, blending tradition with modern convenience.

This article will guide you through every step of crafting this dish. From selecting the best shrimp and grits to baking them to perfection under a blanket of sharp cheddar, you will learn the secrets to a casserole so good it might become a family tradition in your own home.

Table of Contents

What Makes Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust So Special?

Shrimp and grits is a dish deeply rooted in Southern cuisine, loved for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. But what happens when you transform it into a Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust? You get a dish that not only captures the essence of the original but also adds layers of convenience and irresistible appeal. This easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust offers a unique twist that makes it a standout on any table.

Layers of Flavor: From Creamy Grits to Crispy Cheddar

The first bite of this Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust introduces you to velvety grits enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan. The shrimp, sautéed with onions and garlic, infuse the dish with a savory depth that perfectly complements the smooth base. On top, a generous layer of sharp cheddar melts into a golden crust, adding both texture and a slightly sharp note to balance the creaminess below. Each mouthful of this Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust delivers harmony between flavors and textures, making it an unforgettable comfort food experience.

How This Dish Compares to Traditional Shrimp and Grits

Unlike the stovetop version of shrimp and grits, which demands constant stirring and precise timing, this Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust simplifies the process dramatically. You still enjoy the signature creamy grits and succulent shrimp, but now they are baked together in a single dish. This makes the Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust ideal for feeding a crowd, preparing ahead for busy nights, or bringing along to gatherings.

Another advantage of the Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust is its portability. It holds up beautifully as leftovers, something that traditional shrimp and grits often struggle with. The casserole’s baked format keeps the grits creamy while maintaining the shrimp’s tender texture, even after reheating.

This innovative approach does not detract from the soul of shrimp and grits. Instead, it elevates it, offering an accessible yet luxurious variation. With the Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust, you experience all the Southern warmth and hospitality that have made shrimp and grits a timeless favorite—now with the added bonus of a golden, cheesy crust that diners cannot resist.

The Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust is also versatile, pairing effortlessly with side dishes like collard greens, cornbread, or fried green tomatoes. As a centerpiece, this Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust impresses at brunch, family dinners, or potluck events where comfort food reigns supreme.

If you have not yet tried baking your shrimp and grits, the Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust proves that some classics deserve a little reinvention. Once you taste this version, it may become your preferred way to enjoy this Southern staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Stirring Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust in a pot

To create the best Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust, you need quality ingredients that build depth, richness, and balance. Here’s exactly what makes this dish truly shine:

1 cup stone‑ground grits – The heart of the dish. Stone‑ground grits give a nutty flavor and hearty texture that instant versions cannot match.
4 cups water – For proper cooking consistency; you can use half broth for more flavor.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Melts into a golden crust with tangy bite.
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Choose fresh or frozen wild‑caught shrimp with firm texture.
4 tbsp butter, divided – Adds richness to both grits and shrimp.
½ cup diced onion – Provides sweetness and aroma.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings subtle savory depth.
1 cup heavy cream – Ensures velvety smooth grits.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Enhances umami and thickens texture.
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – A mild kick that warms the palate.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for flavor balance.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the finished dish.

Choosing the Best Shrimp for Maximum Flavor

Fresh or frozen, wild or farm-raised—shrimp choice affects quality. Ideally select wild-caught shrimp with “wild-caught” label and medium size (31–40 count per pound). If using frozen shrimp, thaw slowly in the refrigerator and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so precise timing in the skillet is key.

Why Stone‑Ground Grits Make All the Difference

Stone‑ground grits preserve the whole kernel—bran, germ, and endosperm—offering a rich, creamy, and slightly toothsome grits base. Unlike quick or instant grits that lose flavor, stone-ground deliveries the authentic texture essential in the best creamy shrimp and grits casserole with cheddar crust. Additionally, stone‑ground ensures the right grain size to absorb cream and cheese, creating luxurious smoothness upon baking.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese for That Golden Crust

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can blend cheddar with Monterey Jack for creaminess or Parmesan for nutty notes. Grate cheese yourself to ensure it melts evenly. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-clumping additives that prevent a cohesive crust. A one-inch layer of cheddar ensures a crust that is crisp, golden, and full of flavor.

Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust

Many home cooks seek the easiest version of this dish. This variation simplifies prep by using pre-cooked shrimp and quick-cook grits, reducing total time significantly. Despite the shortcuts, it still delivers velvety textures and cheesy flavor, making it a perfect quick weeknight meal.

Best Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust

When searching for the best, readers want flavor, texture, and presentation. This recipe stands out with its combination of heavy cream, Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, fresh shrimp, and spices like cayenne. It elevates everyday shrimp and grits into a casserole that feels restaurant-quality yet is easy to prepare.

Shrimp and Grits Recipe

This casserole adapts the classic shrimp and grits for a baked format that is easier for home cooks. It retains the signature elements—creamy grits base topped with shrimp—and adds the convenience of one-dish baking. It’s a natural extension for anyone looking to explore other shrimp and grits recipes like our Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe.

Easy Shrimp and Grits

If ease is your priority, follow the simplified method under “Easy Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust” by using quick grits and thawed shrimp. That version keeps the dish accessible but still rich. Our casserole format helps busy cooks balance ease with gourmet taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust

Preparing Creamy Grits: Tips for a Smooth and Rich Texture

Begin by heating 4 cups of water in a large, heavy-bottomed pot until it comes to a gentle boil. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits to prevent any clumping and to maintain a smooth consistency. As the mixture reduces to a simmer, lower the heat and cover the pot. Stir every two to three minutes to avoid sticking and to distribute the heat evenly. This careful approach ensures your grits become tender without turning mushy, laying the perfect foundation for your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust. Total cooking time should be about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your grits’ brand.

Once the grits achieve a thick, creamy texture, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 cup of heavy cream, and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cream and cheese are fully incorporated. This rich, silky base is what gives your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust its signature luxurious texture and depth of flavor.

Cooking Shrimp to Perfection

While the grits simmer, prepare the shrimp. Take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, pat them completely dry, and season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper if you want a mild kick. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add ½ cup of diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onions soften and the garlic releases its aroma, about three to four minutes. This step is crucial in building the flavor layers of your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust.

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for approximately three minutes, turning halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and curl slightly. Be attentive; overcooking will result in rubbery shrimp, which can affect the delicate balance of your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp mixture to a bowl and set it aside.

Assembling the Casserole: Layering for Optimal Flavor

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Spoon the creamy Parmesan-enhanced grits into the dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Carefully layer the sautéed shrimp, onions, and garlic evenly over the grits. Distribute the shrimp mixture throughout, not just on top, so every bite of your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust contains both creamy grits and tender shrimp.

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top. For extra cheesiness, you can blend cheddar with a half cup of shredded Monterey Jack. This final touch adds a rich, bubbly layer to your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust, ensuring a satisfying crust that enhances both flavor and texture.

Baking Tips: Achieving a Golden, Cheesy Crust

Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch as the cheese melts fully, bubbles around the edges, and develops a beautiful golden-brown hue. For a slightly crispier topping, place the casserole under the broiler for one to two minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. The finished Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust should feature a creamy, tender interior balanced by a golden, flavorful topping. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley to bring a pop of color and freshness to your dish.

This approach to creating a Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust is what sets this recipe apart from stovetop versions or even similar casseroles. The balance of dairy, the precise shrimp cooking technique, and the careful texture control make it a standout. For comparison, explore a similar comforting shrimp and grits bake at HomeasyRecipes.com titled “Creamy Baked Shrimp and Grits Casserole.” However, our version of the Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust prioritizes richness and even distribution of flavors, making it an elevated yet approachable take on a Southern classic.

Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Absolutely. Frozen shrimp work well if thawed properly. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or submerge sealed bags in cold water for about 30 minutes. After thawing, pat the shrimp completely dry before cooking. Dry shrimp sear better, ensuring you achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

How to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free

Grits are naturally gluten-free since they are ground from corn. The only potential source of gluten could be in broths or additives used in pre-shredded cheese. Confirm that any broth or cheese is marked gluten-free, and your casserole will be safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Avoiding Gritty Grits: The Low-and-Slow Secret

The key to silky grits is patience. Cook them over low heat, stirring regularly to release the natural starches gradually. High heat forces water out too quickly, leaving bits of dry grits. Use heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to enrich the texture further, creating a creamy base perfect for baking.

Creative Additions: Other Seafood or Flavor Boosters

While shrimp is the classic star, you can enhance the casserole by adding other seafood. Scallops or lump crab meat fold in beautifully. Just be mindful of different cooking times—scallops in particular cook more quickly and may need to be added later in the process to avoid overcooking.

Another delicious option is adding diced bacon or andouille sausage for smoky notes. Lightly cook these before mixing them with the shrimp and grits. You can also stir in finely chopped bell peppers or corn kernels for added sweetness and color.

Assembling the Dish and Baking to Perfection

In this section, we explore how to bring all ingredients together for the ultimate Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust experience.

Preparing Creamy Grits for a Luxurious Base

Start by heating four cups of water in a heavy-bottomed pot until it gently simmers. Gradually whisk in one cup of stone-ground grits to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture. Keep the mixture over low heat, stirring every few minutes. This allows the grits to absorb the liquid properly and develop the creamy, rich consistency that defines a perfect Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust. This step is crucial because the grits serve as the foundation of your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust, carrying all the flavors from the shrimp, garlic, and cheddar topping.

After about 20 to 25 minutes of gentle cooking, the grits should become tender yet creamy, ideal for layering into your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust. At this stage, whisk in two tablespoons of butter, one cup of heavy cream, and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Each ingredient enriches the grits, adding the depth and silkiness expected in a standout Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust.

Season the mixture generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly so the butter and cheeses melt completely, blending into the grits for a velvety texture. This luxurious base ensures your Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust will deliver the perfect balance of creamy grits and savory seafood in every bite. The success of any Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust lies in this stage, as the grits must be rich enough to support the baked cheddar crust and succulent shrimp.

By perfecting the grits here, you set the stage for a Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust that is indulgent, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress at any meal. Whether served at brunch or as a comforting dinner, this base will hold up beautifully under the layers of shrimp and cheese that follow in the recipe.

Sautéing the Shrimp Mixture

While the grits are cooking, prepare one pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, pat them perfectly dry, and lightly season with salt, black pepper, and a touch of cayenne if you enjoy mild spice. Melt two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add half a cup of diced onion and two cloves of minced garlic. Cook until the onions soften and the garlic releases its aroma, about three to four minutes. Add the shrimp and sauté for three more minutes until they turn pink and curl lightly. Take care to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can quickly become rubbery. Remove the mixture from the heat once shrimp are just cooked through.

Layering in the Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a nine-by-thirteen inch baking dish. Spoon the creamy grits into the dish, smoothing the top gently. Nestle the sautéed shrimp, onions, and garlic into the grits so each bite is filled with flavor. Sprinkle one cup of sharp shredded cheddar—optionally mixed with Monterey Jack—over the top to form a rich, golden crust.

Baking to Cheesy Perfection

Bake the casserole uncovered for twenty to twenty-five minutes, until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns a light golden brown. If you prefer a crispier crust, place the casserole under the broiler for one to two minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The final dish should present a creamy interior contrasted with a slightly crunchy, flavorful cheddar top. Finish it off with two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley to add brightness and color.

A similarly comforting dish is the “Andouille Sausage Cajun Gravy with Grits” available at Homeasy Recipes. The savory gravy poured over grits provides a complementary flavor profile and shows another way to enjoy creamy grits paired with hearty toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Plated creamy shrimp and grits casserole with side dishes

When planning to serve this casserole, choose sides and pairings that complement its creamy richness and savory shrimp flavor:

Andouille Sausage Cajun Gravy: These Southern staples provide a perfect contrast in texture to the casserole. Try the “Fried Green Tomatoes” recipe at HomeasyRecipes.com for a tangy, crunchy side to balance the creamy dish.
Fried Green Tomatoes: For guests craving extra heat or heartiness, serve small bowls of this spicy gravy on the side. The “Andouille Sausage Cajun Gravy” recipe from HomeasyRecipes.com enhances the meal with bold flavors.
Simple Southern Coleslaw: A vinegar-forward coleslaw helps cut through the creaminess and offers a refreshing crunch.
Buttery Cornbread or Dinner Rolls: These keep the comfort-food theme alive, providing a carb-rich vehicle for savoring every bite of this dish.

Ideal for brunch gatherings, weeknight dinners, and holiday meals, this casserole serves beautifully alongside dishes like shrimp and grits bites, jambalaya, or gumbo for a full Southern-style spread.

Storage and Reheating

This casserole reheats beautifully with minimal loss of texture or flavor:

Refrigerating: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before covering tightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Freezing: For later meals, freeze in individual or family-sized portions. Wrap tightly in plastic, then foil, and store for up to three months.
Reheating from Fridge: Cover the dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Uncover for the last five minutes to revive the cheese crust.
Reheating from Freezer: Let thaw overnight or thaw in a warm oven. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, covered for most of the time, then uncovered to crisp the topping.

Nutritional Information

While this casserole is indulgently creamy and rich, it also delivers a balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates:

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 25 grams per serving from shrimp and cheeses
Fats: Higher in dairy fats from cream, butter, and cheese
Carbohydrates: Moderate, from grits and optional sides

To create a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce butter quantities. Using part-skim cheeses can also lighten the dish without sacrificing too much flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left in the skillet too long. Remove them just as they turn pink and curl.
Undercooking grits: If grits are still grainy after 25 minutes, continue to stir over low heat until soft and creamy.
Skipping cheese selection: Freshly grated sharp cheddar ensures a flavorful, properly melting crust. Pre-shredded cheese may not produce a cohesive topping.

Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp and Grits Casserole with Cheddar Crust brings together everything you love about Southern cooking—creamy grits, savory shrimp, and a cheesy golden finish—in a single, elegant dish. Preparation is simplified with oven baking, but each bite still feels home-cooked and comforting. With thoughtful variations, smart storage solutions, and pairings like fried green tomatoes or Cajun gravy, this casserole can anchor any meal. Whether it becomes your new go-to for weeknight dinners or your signature dish for entertaining, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your culinary rotation.

Enjoy this delicious casserole, share it with loved ones, and explore more comforting recipes from HomeasyRecipes.com and RecipesTasteful.com to round out your table.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best cheese for the crust?

Sharp cheddar is perfect, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or Parmesan for extra flavor.

Can I add other seafood?

Shrimp is classic, but scallops or crab would be delicious as well.

How do I avoid gritty grits?

Stir frequently and cook low and slow for the creamiest texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Grits are naturally gluten-free, just check your broth and cheeses for additives.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking.