Buttery Garlic Shrimp & Grits Bake

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the salt and whisk in the grits. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, cream, butter, garlic powder, black pepper, and lightly beaten eggs. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the grits mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the shrimp, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes just until shrimp start to turn pink (they will finish cooking in the oven).
7. Evenly arrange the shrimp over the grits layer and drizzle with the garlic butter from the pan.
8. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked and the grits are set.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, buttery richness in every bite.

Variations :

• Add Bacon: Stir in chopped cooked bacon to the grits layer for a smoky touch.
• Sautéed Onions or Peppers: Mix into the grits or shrimp topping for more depth and color.
• Creamy Cajun Twist: Use Cajun seasoning on the shrimp instead of paprika for a bolder kick.
• Cheese Swap: Try gouda or Monterey Jack in place of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Seafood Mix: Add scallops or crabmeat for a deluxe version of this bake.

Tips :

• Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and presentation.
• Pre-cook grits well so they don’t absorb too much moisture during baking.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving.
• Double the garlic for a bolder bite if you’re a garlic lover.
• Serve alongside collard greens, roasted asparagus, or cornbread for a full Southern-style meal.

This Buttery Garlic Shrimp & Grits Bake is pure comfort in casserole form—cheesy, creamy, and bursting with garlicky goodness in every savory forkful.