Grits And Cheese Bake
Creamy and cheesy grits baked to perfection, with sharp Cheddar and Parmesan flavors, ideal for comfort food lovers, brunch gatherings, or hearty breakfasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook quick grits in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Add salt, shredded Cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, margarine, milk, and well-beaten eggs to the cooked grits.
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're short on time, instant grits can be used, but they may alter the final texture. Adding cooked sausage or sautéed vegetables can enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can be mixed in. This dish can be served with a side of greens for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy grits bake as a hearty breakfast or brunch dish, paired with crispy bacon or fresh fruit. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side salad. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Grandma'S Date-Nut Cookies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to prevent drying out and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grits And Cheese Bake contains roughly 718 calories, with 14g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2403mg per serving (104% 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 different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar and Parmesan provide a great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for an extra kick. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian friendly. Just ensure that the margarine used is dairy-free if you want to keep it strictly vegetarian. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional value while keeping it delicious.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the grits mixture and assemble it in the baking dish a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just note that you may need to extend the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it's heated through completely.
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).