Grits Casserole(Freezes Well, Before Or After Baking.)
A comforting cheesy grits casserole with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its creamy texture and rich taste appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan; add grits.
- Stir in cheese which has been cut into pieces.
- Beat eggs in a bowl; add to the cooked grits mixture.
- Add margarine and all remaining ingredients, mixing well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 3-quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350° to 375°F until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier grits, consider using half milk and half water. If you're out of sharp cheese, cheddar or a blend of cheeses can work well too. To enhance flavor, sauté some onions or bell peppers before adding them to the mixture. Adding a bit more paprika can give it an extra kick. This recipe can easily be adapted for vegetarian diets by ensuring your cheese is rennet-free.
Serving Suggestions
This grits casserole pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh Avocado Salad Dressing for balance. It can be served as a hearty breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for dinner. Consider topping it with some chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. It can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When reheating, bake at 350°F until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grits Casserole(Freezes Well, Before Or After Baking.) contains roughly 448 calories, with 10g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1611mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, assemble it ahead of time and freeze it, baking it straight from the freezer when you're ready to serve.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce in the recipe. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. For a smoky flavor, try incorporating smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Is it possible to use instant grits instead of regular grits?
Yes, you can use instant grits, but the texture will be different. Instant grits cook faster and may result in a creamier consistency. Adjust the water amount according to the package instructions and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
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).