Black-Eyed Peas And Grits
A hearty casserole combining creamy cheesy grits with savory black-eyed peas and diced tomatoes. This dish offers a comforting blend of flavors, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Easy to prepare and fully satisfying, it showcases Southern-inspired flavors with a cheesy, vegetable-rich profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8 x 8 x 2-inch square baking pan.
- Empty the instant grits into the prepared pan and stir in boiling water until combined.
- Stir in the process cheese spread with bacon and the slightly beaten egg until the cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
- Gently fold in the drained black-eyed peas and diced tomatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes or until the casserole is firm and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using regular grits instead of instant ones, though the cooking time will be longer. You can substitute the process cheese spread with a cheddar cheese for an extra kick, or try a different flavor of cheese spread. Adding spices like cayenne pepper or paprika can enhance the flavor. This dish is great as a hearty vegetarian option, especially when served with a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Black-Eyed Peas and Grits warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for added color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad. For an extra touch, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black-Eyed Peas And Grits contains roughly 419 calories, with 9g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% 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 use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black-eyed peas, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand. Soak the peas overnight and then boil them until tender before incorporating them into the recipe. This will add a bit of time to your preparation but can enhance the flavor.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the Black-Eyed Peas and Grits after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave.
What can I add to make it more filling?
To make this dish more filling, you could add cooked sausage or ground meat before baking. Alternatively, incorporating additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can increase the nutrition and volume without compromising the dish's integrity.
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).