Baked Cheese Grits
Creamy baked cheese grits with sharp cheddar and Parmesan offer a comforting, cheesy side perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, featuring rich flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the quick cooking grits in water with salt for 3 minutes.
- Add margarine and shredded Cheddar cheese to the cooked grits and mix well.
- Stir in the beaten eggs thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 45 minutes.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and paprika.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving, then cut into portions or spoon out.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to the grits before baking. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. If you're out of margarine, butter works well too. Adding some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables can elevate this dish further.
Serving Suggestions
Baked cheese grits make a fantastic side dish for brunch, especially alongside eggs or a fresh salad like Easter Bunny Salad. They also pair beautifully with Southern dishes such as fried chicken or shrimp and grits. For a complete meal, serve them with a light vegetable stir-fry or grilled asparagus.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the grits in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cheese Grits contains roughly 930 calories, with 34g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (82% of the Daily Value), protein (68% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1490mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
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 baked cheese grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This allows for a quick and easy side dish on busy days.
What can I use instead of quick cooking grits?
If you don't have quick cooking grits, you can use regular stone-ground grits. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as they typically take longer to cook.
Can I add other ingredients to the grits?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cooked sausage, vegetables, or even spices like cayenne pepper for a kick. Adding fresh herbs such as chives or parsley can also enhance the flavor and presentation.
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).