Garlic Cheese-Grits Casserole
Garlic Cheese-Grits Casserole is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of garlic cheese with the comforting texture of grits. Perfect for brunch or as a side dish, it's a crowd-pleaser that suits both casual families and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter and garlic cheese over low heat.
- Add the melted mixture to the cooked grits.
- Beat the eggs well and mix in the milk.
- Combine the egg mixture with the grits mixture.
- Pour the total mixture into a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 325° to 350°.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you’d like to spice things up, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Alternatively, you can substitute the garlic cheese with a blend of cream cheese and minced garlic for a different flavor profile. Ensure the grits are well-cooked before mixing to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Cheese-Grits Casserole makes a comforting side dish, perfect for breakfast or brunch. It pairs beautifully with Southern favorites such as fried chicken or shrimp and grits. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a standalone dish for lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Cheese-Grits Casserole contains roughly 391 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of garlic cheese?
If you can't find garlic cheese, you can use a combination of cream cheese and minced garlic, or try a sharp cheddar with garlic powder. This will give you a similar flavor profile while still keeping the dish creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Garlic Cheese-Grits Casserole is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat products. However, always check the cheese used to ensure it aligns with vegetarian dietary preferences, especially if you're using specialty garlic cheese.
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).