Gillie'S Cheesy Egg Grits
Creamy cheesy egg grits offer a comforting breakfast with rich Monterey Jack flavor, perfect for a quick, satisfying start to the day or a cozy brunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 1 1/3 cups boiling water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Stir in 1/3 cup quick yellow grits and return to boil.
- Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
- In the last minute of cooking, stir in 1 to 2 eggs.
- When 1 minute remains, stir in 1/4 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese.
- Serve hot topped with a pat of butter or margarine and toast on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half water and half milk instead of just water. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when mixing in the eggs. For a vegetarian twist, serve alongside a fresh salad like Alphabet Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Gillie’s Cheesy Egg Grits hot, topped with a pat of butter or margarine for extra richness. They pair wonderfully with crispy bacon or sautéed greens for a hearty breakfast. For a wholesome lunch, enjoy them with a side of Scalloped Creamed Corn or a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the grits and microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed through. This helps prevent the grits from drying out and keeps them creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gillie'S Cheesy Egg Grits contains roughly 1623 calories, with 43g protein, 288g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (89% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1617mg per serving (70% 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 instant grits instead of quick grits?
Yes, instant grits can be used in this recipe, but you will need to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Instant grits cook faster, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make Gillie’s Cheesy Egg Grits dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. You can also replace butter with margarine or olive oil to keep it dairy-free while still adding richness.
What other toppings can I add to the grits?
You can customize your grits with a variety of toppings. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for crunch. For added protein, top with cooked sausage or diced ham.
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).