If you’ve been searching for something that brings warmth to the table and a smile to everyone’s face, this Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake might just be your next favorite. With its golden crust, velvety cheese, and juicy shrimp baked right into creamy grits, it’s everything you want in a Southern-inspired comfort dish—only easier to make and impossible to resist.
This recipe is especially perfect for those busy evenings when you still want something hearty and homemade, but without a sink full of dishes or a complicated list of steps. And if you’re anything like me, you want something your family will actually request again. Spoiler alert: they will.
“I created this recipe out of sheer love for grits and cheese. My kids call it the ‘shrimp pie,’ and it never lasts more than a day in our house.”
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the items are pantry staples or easy to grab at any grocery store.
- One Dish Wonder: It all comes together in one baking dish, which means less cleanup.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time, bake when you’re ready.
- Kid-Approved: Creamy, cheesy, and a touch of savory shrimp—they’re all in.
- Southern Flavor: A twist on a regional classic that feels both nostalgic and new.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Grits | 1 cup |
| Water or stock | 4 cups |
| Shrimp (peeled & deveined) | 1 lb |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Vegetable oil or butter | 1/4 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Green onions (for garnish) | Optional |
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake
- Start with the grits: Bring your water or stock to a gentle boil in a pot. Stir in the grits slowly to avoid lumps, and reduce heat. Let them simmer, stirring often, until thickened—about 20 minutes.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the oil or butter. Add chopped onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and paprika, stir until fragrant, then remove from heat.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the same skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly curled. Don’t overcook—remember, they’ll bake later.
- Combine the base: Stir the shredded cheddar and cream cheese into the warm grits until melted and smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble: Pour half the cheesy grits into a greased baking dish. Layer the cooked shrimp and onions over the top. Cover with the remaining grits. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and serve: Let it cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Kitchen Tips for Best Results
- Don’t rush the grits. Let them cook low and slow to get that perfect creamy texture.
- Choose large shrimp. They hold up better during baking and have a satisfying bite.
- Want a kick? Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the shrimp while cooking.
- Double the batch. This dish freezes well and makes great leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake holds its own, but you can round it out beautifully with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. If you’re hosting brunch, serve it with a simple fruit platter and fresh biscuits for a meal that hits every note—salty, creamy, fresh, and satisfying.
Perfect Drink Pairings
- For brunch: A Bloody Mary or a cold mimosa works like a charm.
- For dinner: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay, complements the cheese and shrimp beautifully.
- For kids or non-drinkers: Sweet iced tea or a fizzy lemonade pairs great with the creamy richness of the dish.
Make It Look Like Restaurant-Quality
- Use a cast iron skillet for baking—it creates golden edges and looks beautiful on the table.
- Top with a swirl of sour cream or a few extra shrimp just before serving.
- Garnish with microgreens or finely chopped chives for that finishing touch.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk or stock before reheating.
“Every time I make this, I think about how my grandma used to say, ‘If you’ve got shrimp and cheese, you’ve got something special.’ She wasn’t wrong.”
Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake: The Comfort Dish You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This comforting Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake features juicy shrimp, creamy grits, and melted cheese all baked to perfection. It’s a Southern-style casserole that works great for brunch, dinner, or whenever you’re craving warm, hearty flavor.
Ingredients
– 1 cup grits
– 4 cups water or stock
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil or butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring water or stock to a boil. Stir in grits, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a skillet, heat oil or butter. Sauté onions until soft, then add garlic and paprika. Stir for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove from heat.
4. Stir cheddar and cream cheese into the cooked grits until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half the cheesy grits. Add shrimp and onion mixture. Top with remaining grits.
6. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
– You can prepare the dish up to a day in advance and bake before serving.
– Frozen shrimp work well, just be sure to thaw and dry them first.
– Add hot sauce or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Main Dish, Brunch
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes, you can! If cream cheese isn’t your thing or you’re out, sour cream or ricotta are good swaps. Both still give you that creamy texture, just with a slightly different flavor. Goat cheese adds a tangy punch, if you’re feeling adventurous.
What kind of grits should I use?
Stone-ground grits offer the richest flavor and texture, but they take a little longer to cook. Quick grits work fine if you’re in a rush—just adjust the cooking time. Avoid instant grits, though. They don’t hold up well in a baked dish like this.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can fully assemble the dish a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights or planning for guests.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of stock or milk if it thickens too much in the fridge.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
What can I serve with Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake?
Try it with a crisp green salad, sautéed greens, or roasted veggies. For a brunch spread, pair it with fresh fruit and a biscuit or two. It plays well with just about everything.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
You sure can. Just make sure they’re thawed and well-drained before cooking. Patting them dry with a paper towel helps avoid extra moisture in the bake.
Is this dish spicy?
Not as written, but it can be! Add cayenne, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. The base recipe is mild, which makes it kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing.
Try This Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake Tonight
It’s amazing how a simple twist on a Southern classic can turn into a dish your whole family will ask for again and again. Whether you’re pulling it together after a long workday or prepping it ahead for a weekend brunch, this Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bake brings together comfort and convenience in one bubbly, golden pan.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself adding it to your regular rotation—it’s just that kind of recipe. One that’s easy to love, hard to mess up, and always hits the spot. Try it once, and you’ll know exactly why it’s a keeper.