Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Bake

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground yellow grits
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1.5 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 0.5 cup andouille sausage, diced
• 0.5 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
• 0.25 cup green onions, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 units large eggs, beaten

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. 2

   In a large saucepan, bring the water and milk to a gentle boil, then slowly whisk in the grits and a pinch of salt.

3. 3

   Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer the grits for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy and tender.

4. 4

   Remove grits from heat; stir in the butter, 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese, and the beaten eggs until fully incorporated.

5. 5

   In a separate skillet, quickly sauté the diced sausage, bell peppers, and garlic for 3 minutes until fragrant.

6. 6

   Toss the raw shrimp with the Cajun seasoning, then stir the shrimp and the sautéed vegetable mixture into the cheese grits.

7. 7

   Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheese on top.

8. 8

   Bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown; garnish with green onions before serving.