Cheesy Grits And Vegetables
Creamy cheesy grits combined with tender vegetables create a comforting dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or light dinner, appealing to cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the quick-cooking grits according to the package instructions.
- Add shredded Velveeta Light cheese and margarine to the cooked grits, stirring until melted.
- Beat the eggs in a small bowl.
- Gradually stir a small amount of the hot grits mixture into the beaten eggs to temper them.
- Stir the egg mixture back into the hot grits mixture, mixing well.
- Fold in the thawed mixed vegetables.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Microwave on High power for 12 to 15 minutes or until thoroughly heated, turning the dish twice if not using a rotation turntable.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try using half-and-half instead of margarine when mixing in the cheese. You can substitute the Velveeta Light with any other processed cheese or sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. To save time, use pre-cooked frozen vegetables or fresh ones that you can quickly steam. For a twist, add some sautéed onions or bell peppers to enhance the dish's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesy grits and vegetables as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like fried catfish or BBQ ribs. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or some crusty bread. This dish is also great for brunch, served alongside scrambled eggs or as part of a vegetarian spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also add a splash of milk to restore creaminess while reheating. If you want to freeze, make sure to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Grits And Vegetables contains roughly 495 calories, with 6g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 566mg per serving (25% 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 grits instead of quick-cooking grits?
Yes, you can use regular grits, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Regular grits take longer to cook, usually around 30-40 minutes, so be sure to allow extra time for preparation.
What if I don't have Velveeta Light cheese?
If Velveeta Light isn't available, you can use any creamy processed cheese or a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese for a similar texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly depending on your choice of cheese.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked bacon, sausage, or diced ham for a heartier meal. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the grits mixture, and adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the added flavor.
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).