Cheese Grit Casserole
A creamy, cheesy grits casserole with garlic and golden bread crumbs, perfect as comfort food or a hearty side dish for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the quick grits in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Mix the cooked grits with salt, garlic cheese, margarine, milk, and beaten eggs.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
- 20 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle with buttered bread crumbs and continue baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding more milk or substituting half-and-half for the milk. If you want a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Using different types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, can also add unique flavors. This recipe complements dishes like Aunt Lisa's Broccoli Casserole beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese grit casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. It pairs excellently with a fresh salad for a complete meal. For brunch, consider serving it with eggs and bacon. This dish could also be a comforting side for a festive gathering, similar to serving Swiss Ham and Noodle Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps retain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Grit Casserole contains roughly 790 calories, with 10g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1352mg per serving (59% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. After mixing the ingredients, pour them into the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the garlic cheese?
If garlic cheese isn't available, you can substitute it with a combination of cream cheese and minced garlic, or use mozzarella for a milder flavor. Adding some grated Parmesan can also enhance the cheese flavor while keeping it creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this cheese grit casserole is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. However, ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet. This dish makes a great addition to vegetarian recipes and can be paired with a variety of vegetable sides.
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).