Frito-Grit Casserole
A savory casserole combining creamy cheesy grits topped with crunchy Fritos, perfect for casual family dinners or comfort food enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups of quick grits and cook until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add 1 stick of oleo, garlic cheese roll, dash of Tabasco, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined and pour into a greased 9 x 11-inch pan.
- Top the casserole with crushed Fritos.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when mixing in the oleo and cheese. If you can't find garlic cheese, you can substitute with a combination of regular cheese and minced garlic. You can also experiment with different toppings; crushed tortilla chips can add a nice crunch similar to Fritos. This dish is a great way to use up leftover cheeses from previous meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Frito-Grit Casserole as a hearty main dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with Atlanta Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, top it with additional cheese or fresh herbs before serving. This dish is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, just be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frito-Grit Casserole contains roughly 271 calories, with 5g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% 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 Frito-Grit Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before baking. This can save you time on busy days and still deliver a delicious meal.
What can I substitute for oleo in this recipe?
If you prefer not to use oleo, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. For a healthier option, consider using olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute, which will still provide richness to the dish without compromising flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Frito-Grit Casserole is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat. Just ensure that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses contain animal rennet. This dish can be a great addition to any vegetarian recipes collection.
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).