Golden Cheese Grits
Golden Cheese Grits offer a creamy, cheesy comfort food with rich flavors of butter, cheddar, and garlic. Perfect as a hearty breakfast or side dish, its warm, cheesy profile appeals to all ages and pairs well with breakfast meats or greens for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cook the grits in boiling water until almost done.
- Crumble the garlic or bacon-flavored cheese and add it along with the butter into the grits.
- In a separate bowl, blend the eggs and milk together.
- Mix the egg and milk mixture into the cooked grits.
- Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the grits before baking. For a healthier twist, substitute half of the butter with olive oil or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a kick or cream cheese for a creamier texture. This dish makes a great side for breakfast or brunch, especially alongside scrambled eggs or country sausage.
Serving Suggestions
Golden Cheese Grits are perfect as a hearty side dish for dinner, paired with fried chicken or baked fish. They also work wonderfully as a breakfast option, served alongside a side of fresh fruit or crispy bacon. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a spicy shrimp topping for a delightful twist, reminiscent of the flavors in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the grits in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Cheese Grits contains roughly 825 calories, with 16g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture a day in advance. Assemble everything in the casserole dish and cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven. This ensures even cooking.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese or a nutritional yeast blend to achieve a cheesy flavor without dairy. Additionally, for a stronger taste, consider using feta or gouda cheese as alternatives.
How do I know when the grits are done cooking?
The grits should be thick but still creamy. They are done when they have absorbed most of the water and have a smooth, velvety texture. You can taste a small spoonful to ensure they are tender and seasoned to your liking.
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).