Baked Grits Souffle
Creamy baked grits souffle with melted cheese offers a comforting, savory side dish perfect for brunch or family dinners, blending smooth textures with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the grits according to package instructions.
- Add margarine, grated sharp cheese, milk, and egg yolks to the cooked grits and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the grits mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. If you’re out of margarine, butter works perfectly as a substitute. For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the grits mixture. Make sure to beat the egg whites until stiff to achieve the perfect souffle rise. This dish can also be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Grits Souffle pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a hearty dinner. This dish also makes a great brunch item, especially when accompanied by a side of Hot Asparagus Rolls or fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheating option, adding a splash of milk to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Grits Souffle contains roughly 362 calories, with 6g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1561mg per serving (68% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to fold in the egg whites right before baking to ensure it rises properly.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is recommended for a rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a different taste profile. Just ensure it's a cheese that melts well.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Baked Grits Souffle is a vegetarian recipe as it contains no meat products. Just make sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese and margarine to keep it meat-free.
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).