There's something truly magical about the comforting flavors and textures of a well-made Shrimp and Grits Bake. Creamy, cheesy grits mingling perfectly with savory, tender shrimp, all baked to golden perfection - who doesn't love that?! This dish simply encapsulates the essence of Southern comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every bite.
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Shrimp and Grits Bake
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Shrimp and Grits Bake
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ cup milk
- 180 g 6 oz herbed cream cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- 300 g 10 oz shrimps, peeled, de-veined
- 2 eggs
- 1 thyme sprig
- ⅔ cup uncooked grits
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven 190C/375F.
- Place a skillet with olive oil onto a medium heat and saute onions and peppers for around 5-7 minutes, or until soft and golden. Add thyme leaves and garlic, mix and cook for 1 minute.2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium white onion, 1 red bell pepper, 1 thyme sprig
- Add shrimps into the pan and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat, make sure to drain any excess liquid if needed.300 g 10 oz shrimps, peeled, de-veined, salt and pepper to taste
- Heat up chicken stock and start slowly pouring in the grits, while whisking constantly. Pour in ½ cup of milk. Cook, following package directions.2 cups chicken stock, ⅔ cup uncooked grits, ½ cup milk
- Combine cooked grits with cream cheese and eggs. Stir in shrimp and vegetable mix.180 g 6 oz herbed cream cheese, 2 eggs
- Transfer the mixture into a baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until completely set on the edges and slightly jiggly in the middle.
- Let cool down for around 15-20 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ cup milk
- 180 g (6 oz) herbed cream cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- 300 g (10 oz) shrimps, peeled, de-veined
- 2 eggs
- 1 thyme sprig
- ⅔ cup uncooked grits
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven 190C/375F.
Place a skillet with olive oil onto a medium heat and saute onions and peppers for around 5-7 minutes, or until soft and golden. Add thyme leaves and garlic, mix and cook for 1 minute.
Add shrimps into the pan and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat, make sure to drain any excess liquid if needed.
Heat up chicken stock and start slowly pouring in the grits, while whisking constantly. Pour in ½ cup of milk. Cook, following package directions.
Combine cooked grits with cream cheese and eggs. Stir in shrimp and vegetable mix.
Transfer the mixture into a baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until completely set on the edges and slightly jiggly in the middle.
Let cool down for around 15-20 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Pairing your Shrimp and Grits Bake with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience, adding complementary flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions that balance and enhance this delightful Southern dish:
Fresh Green Salad
A light and refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the rich, creamy elements of the bake. Consider adding some crunchy cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for extra freshness.
Garlic Bread or Buttermilk Biscuits
Add a touch of Southern charm with some homemade buttermilk biscuits or keep it classic with crispy garlic bread. Both options provide a satisfying crunch and are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add vibrant colors and a mix of sweet and savory flavors, complementing the bake beautifully.
Collard Greens or Sautéed Spinach
These traditional Southern greens provide a nutritious and slightly bitter contrast that pairs wonderfully with the creamy, savory bake.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a hint of sweetness with a crispy edge, bake some sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness and slight crunch can provide a delightful counterpoint to the Shrimp and Grits Bake.
⏲️Chef's Tip
To elevate your Shrimp and Grits Bake to restaurant-quality, consider these expert tips from professional chefs:
Use Fresh, High-Quality Shrimp
The quality of shrimp you use can significantly impact the overall taste and texture of your dish. Fresh shrimp, as opposed to frozen, have a firmer texture and a sweeter flavor. If you must use frozen shrimp, ensure they are well thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Develop Layers of Flavor
Season your dish generously at each step. Start by seasoning the vegetables as they sauté, then the shrimp as it cooks, and finally season the grits as they simmer. This layering of flavors ensures a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
Cook the Grits Slowly
Patience is key when preparing grits. Slow cooking over a gentle simmer allows the grits to fully absorb the flavors of the chicken stock and milk, resulting in a creamy and luscious texture. Stir frequently to prevent them from sticking to the pot.
Incorporate Richness Smartly
Adding herbed cream cheese to the grits provides a lovely tang and creamy texture. Consider substituting with Boursin cheese or even mascarpone for a different flavor profile.
Let the Bake Rest
After baking, let your Shrimp and Grits Bake rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the dish to set, making it easier to slice and serve while also allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
Finish with Fresh Herbs
To brighten the dish and add a fresh note, sprinkle finely chopped parsley or chives right before serving. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a touch of vibrant color to your presentation.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid releasing excess moisture. This ensures that your shrimp cook evenly and your bake doesn’t become watery.
What Type of Grits Should I Use?
For the best texture and flavor, opt for stone-ground grits. They provide a rich, creamy consistency that complements the dish perfectly. While instant grits can be used in a pinch, they won't deliver the same depth of flavor and traditional texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Shrimp and Grits Bake is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the bake up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Certainly! This dish is quite versatile. You can add ingredients like crispy bacon, sausage, or even a variety of cheeses to enhance the flavor. Just make sure any additional ingredients are pre-cooked and properly drained to maintain the right consistency.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in an oven set to 175C/350F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.
What Can I Substitute for Herbed Cream Cheese?
If herbed cream cheese isn’t available, you can use plain cream cheese and mix in fresh or dried herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill. This will allow you to replicate the flavors and still achieve a creamy texture.
Is This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, Shrimp and Grits Bake is naturally gluten-free, provided all the ingredients you use, particularly the chicken stock, are certified gluten-free. This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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