Charleston Grits
Charleston Grits is a creamy, cheesy dish with a hint of garlic and spice, perfect for brunch or comfort food lovers seeking rich flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the grits in boiling water; add salt and margarine.
- Add cheese (or American cheese and garlic powder) and stir until melted.
- Beat the egg into the milk and add to the grits mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Dash with Tabasco sauce.
- Sprinkle with crushed cornflakes and bake at 400°F until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamy grits, use stone-ground grits instead of quick cooking hominy grits if you have more time. If you don't have garlic cheese, mix 1 cup of shredded American cheese with 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder for a similar flavor. For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or peppers to the grits mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Charleston Grits are a fantastic side dish for Southern-inspired meals. Serve them alongside grilled shrimp or fried chicken for a delicious pairing. For a vegetarian option, enjoy them with a side of sautéed greens. These grits also pair beautifully with So Good Strawberry Smoothie for a refreshing drink.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the grits and warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. This prevents them from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charleston Grits contains roughly 737 calories, with 11g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2143mg per serving (93% 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 use regular cornmeal instead of grits?
Using regular cornmeal will alter the texture and cooking time of the dish. Grits are coarser and create a creamier consistency. If you only have cornmeal, you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. For cheese, look for a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well to maintain the creamy texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the grits while cooking. You can also serve with additional hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a spicier kick.
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).