Aunt Lee'S Garlic Cheese Grits
Creamy garlic cheese grits enriched with melted cheese and butter, topped with a cheesy crust. Perfect for comforting breakfasts, brunches, or hearty side dishes for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the grits according to the package instructions.
- While hot, stir in the butter and cut up the garlic cheese roll until melted and well combined.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Add the milk to the beaten eggs and stir into the cooled grits mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 30 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the garlic cheese roll with a regular cheese roll and add minced garlic to maintain the flavor. Make sure to stir the grits constantly while cooking to prevent lumps. If you're short on time, instant grits can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
These garlic cheese grits make a delightful side dish, pairing well with savory entrees like grilled chicken or shrimp. They also complement breakfast items such as eggs and bacon. Consider serving alongside a Tossed Salad With Pine Nuts In Dill-Garlic Dressing for a fresh contrast. For a hearty meal, serve with a side of sautéed greens.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the grits mixture in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of milk to restore moisture. Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lee'S Garlic Cheese Grits contains roughly 551 calories, with 9g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture a day in advance. After assembling, cover the casserole dish and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Just remember to maintain a balance of flavors; a sharper cheese can enhance the dish while a milder one may require additional seasoning.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain meat. However, if you want to make it completely plant-based, you can substitute butter with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk. Just ensure that the garlic cheese roll is also vegetarian.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).