Chile Cheese Grits
Creamy, cheesy Chile Cheese Grits with a spicy kick, perfect as a comforting side or breakfast dish for cheese lovers and chili enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan; add grits and salt.
- Cook over low heat for 2 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add butter and grated Cheddar cheese; stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in seasoned salt and Worcestershire sauce.
- Fold in well-beaten eggs and chopped green chiles.
- Pour mixture into a buttered 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of water when cooking the grits. If you're out of Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack or a combination of cheeses can work well. To add extra flavor, consider incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers. If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer green chiles or substitute with roasted red peppers. This dish pairs beautifully with Roasted Garlic And Parmesan Mashed Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grits as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course, topped with additional cheese or sliced jalapeños for added spice. They pair well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Consider serving alongside a fresh salad or a light soup for a complete meal. For a brunch option, they can be served with eggs or paired with American recipes like Orange Crinkles Cookies for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chile Cheese Grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the mixture and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile Cheese Grits contains roughly 581 calories, with 10g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1636mg per serving (71% 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 Chile Cheese Grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bake it fresh when you're ready to serve. If it seems too thick after chilling, add a little water or milk before baking to loosen it up.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more chopped green chiles or include diced jalapeños for extra heat. Additionally, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the mixture before baking to elevate the spice level to your liking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, grits are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging to ensure no cross-contamination has occurred. Also, double-check the Worcestershire sauce, as some brands may contain gluten. Look for gluten-free brands to be safe.
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).