Garlic Cheese Grits
Garlic Cheese Grits is a creamy, savory dish that combines the rich flavors of sharp Cheddar cheese and garlic with a comforting base of grits. Ideal for brunch or a cozy dinner, this dish is perfect for cheese lovers and anyone seeking a satisfying side that brings warmth and flavor to the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, salt, and minced garlic to a boil in a large saucepan; gradually stir in grits.
- Return to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes or until thickened.
- Add Cheddar cheese, butter, seasoned pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, stirring until cheese melts.
- Remove from heat; let stand for 10 minutes.
- Stir in eggs, and pour into a lightly greased 11-inch by 7-inch baking dish or 2-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake grits at 350° for 1 hour or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half water and half milk when cooking the grits. If you want to add more depth, sauté the garlic in a bit of the butter before adding it to the water. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with Gruyère or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Additionally, try adding cooked bacon or sausage for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garlic cheese grits as a hearty side dish to accompany grilled meats or as a comforting main course topped with sautéed vegetables. They pair beautifully with Corn-Tomato Casserole for a flavorful meal. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Cheese Grits contains roughly 406 calories, with 12g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (149% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 704mg per serving (31% 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 garlic cheese grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, then refrigerate. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of sharp Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute sharp Cheddar with medium Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese. For a more gourmet touch, Gruyère or Fontina cheese works well too, adding a nutty flavor to the dish.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as grits are made from corn. Just make sure to check that the brands you use don't contain any additives that may include gluten. This makes it a great option for those looking for gluten-free American recipes.
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).