Grandma'S Garlic Grits
Grandma's Garlic Grits offer a comforting blend of creamy southern-style grits enhanced with garlic cheese and a crispy cornflake topping. Perfect for brunch or family dinners, this dish combines cheesy, garlicky flavors with a satisfying texture that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the grits in salted water according to package directions.
- Once cooked, stir in 3/4 of the margarine and the garlic cheese until melted and well combined.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Add the eggs and milk to the cooled grits mixture and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish and top with the remaining margarine and cheese.
- Sprinkle cornflakes on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're out of garlic cheese, a combination of cream cheese and minced garlic works well as a substitute. To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sautéed onions. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking, making it a convenient choice for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Garlic Grits as a hearty side dish for brunch or dinner. They pair wonderfully with fried chicken or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad like For Goodness Sakes Salad or with a light soup. This dish is comforting and filling, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Garlic Grits contains roughly 403 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 728mg per serving (32% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking. This makes it a great option for busy days or when hosting guests.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with an equal amount of butter for a richer flavor. Alternatively, vegan butter works well if you're looking for a dairy-free option. The choice can slightly alter the taste but will still keep the dish delicious.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
To adjust the spiciness, you can add more or less garlic cheese depending on your preference. For a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic cheese or omit any additional spices.
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).