Cheddar Cheese And Garlic Grits
Cheddar cheese and garlic grits offer a creamy, cheesy comfort food with a hint of garlic and spice. This hearty dish is perfect for brunch, dinner, or a special occasion, appealing to cheese lovers and those seeking savory, flavorful sides or main courses with a Southern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, salt, and pressed garlic to a boil in a large saucepan.
- Gradually stir in the grits and return to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes or until thickened.
- Add shredded cheese, butter, seasoned pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce; stir until cheese melts.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes.
- Stir in lightly beaten eggs.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier grits, consider using half water and half milk. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the hot sauce or add diced jalapeños. You can substitute sharp Cheddar with any cheese you prefer, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack. To save time, you can use instant grits, but follow package instructions for cooking times.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy grits as a comforting side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with Crispy Ginger Chicken And Peaches for a delightful meal. Consider topping with fresh herbs or sautéed greens for added flavor and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to prevent drying out and warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Cheese And Garlic Grits contains roughly 426 calories, with 16g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg per serving (31% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture a day in advance. After mixing in the eggs, cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mix of balsamic vinegar and a hint of sugar for a similar umami flavor in your grits.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian alternative. This recipe is inherently meat-free and fits well within vegetarian recipes.
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).