Description
Southern comfort meets zesty elegance in this spicy shrimp and grits casserole, where creamy cheese-infused grits cradle succulent Gulf Coast shrimp. Rich coastal flavors and bold spices combine in a hearty dish that promises comfort and excitement on every delicious forkful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 lb large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled, deveined, and cooked
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 large egg, beaten
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 bunch scallions, chopped (white and light-green parts only)
- 1/2 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped (seeded if less heat is desired)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 ounces / 283 grams) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
Base and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for baking dish)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup quick-cooking grits (not instant)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Gouda cheese, divided
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F and coat an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with a thin butter layer to prevent sticking.
- Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium-high temperature, then introduce scallions, red bell pepper, and jalapeño, reducing heat to medium and sautéing until vegetables soften and release their aromatic qualities.
- Incorporate minced garlic, diced tomatoes with chiles, and chicken broth, raising the temperature to create a boiling liquid environment.
- Slowly introduce grits into the bubbling mixture, continuously stirring to prevent lumps, then reduce heat and allow the mixture to simmer and thicken, periodically stirring to ensure smooth consistency.
- Remove the grits from heat and let them cool momentarily, seasoning with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Fold in raw shrimp, crispy bacon pieces, beaten egg, and a generous portion of Gouda cheese, ensuring even distribution throughout the creamy base.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even surface and sprinkling the remaining cheese across the top for a golden, melted finish.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until the surface turns golden brown, edges become slightly crispy, and the interior reaches a bubbling temperature.
- Allow the casserole to rest for several minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the ingredients settle and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Customize heat levels by adjusting jalapeño quantities or using different chile peppers for personalized spiciness.
- Swap shrimp with chicken or andouille sausage for alternative protein options that maintain Southern comfort food essence.
- Use low-fat cheese and turkey bacon for a lighter version without compromising rich, satisfying flavor profile.
- Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process and reduce overall kitchen time, making this dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern (American)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 160mg