Grits And Cheese
Grits and cheese is a comforting, savory dish featuring creamy, cheesy flavors blended with hearty grits. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, it appeals to cheese lovers and those seeking a warm, satisfying meal with a rich, velvety texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 6 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan.
- Remove from heat and add the dry grits, stirring well.
- Stir in the well-beaten eggs, oleo, cream cheese, diced processed cheese, salt, savory salt, and Tabasco sauce until all ingredients are well blended.
- Return the mixture to the stove and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Pour the hot mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 300°F for 1 hour or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier grits, consider using half milk and half water instead of just water. If you can't find Old English cheese, cheddar works well as a substitute. For extra flavor, you can add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the mixture. Make sure to stir constantly while boiling to prevent lumps. This dish is a great side for meals like grilled chicken or pairs beautifully with Beary Cherry Cobbler.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grits and Cheese as a hearty side dish for breakfast or brunch. It pairs well with fried eggs or crispy bacon. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or sautéed greens. This dish can also be a comforting main course, especially when accompanied by a side of Creamy Broccoli Bake or a light fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Grits and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the mixture, then microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also bake it again at 300°F for about 20 minutes until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grits And Cheese contains roughly 178 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 606mg per serving (26% 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 mixture ahead of time, pour it into the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. For a non-dairy option, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative, which will still provide a creamy texture and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Grits and Cheese is a vegetarian recipe, making it a great option for meatless meals. Just be sure that the cheeses used do not contain animal rennet if you're adhering to strict vegetarian standards.
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).