Grits-N-Cheese Bake
A creamy, cheesy grits bake with sharp Cheddar and Parmesan, perfect for comforting dinners or brunch gatherings, offering rich flavors and a smooth texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Pour boiling water over instant grits.
- Stir until well blended.
- Fold in shredded Cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Add beaten eggs and optional freeze-dried chives.
- Pour mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of water when preparing the grits. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating cooked bacon or sausage into the mixture. For a vegetarian version, simply omit any meat. Fresh herbs can also be substituted for freeze-dried chives if available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Grits-N-Cheese Bake warm as a comforting breakfast or brunch dish. It pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad, such as Weight Watchers Mandarin Orange Salad, to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grits-N-Cheese Bake contains roughly 668 calories, with 30g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (122% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (97% of the Daily Value), and calcium (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 915mg per serving (40% 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 regular grits instead of instant grits?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Regular grits typically take longer to cook, so follow the package instructions and make sure they are fully cooked before mixing in the cheeses and eggs.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
You can use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère. For a sharper flavor, try aged white Cheddar or even a combination of cheeses for a unique twist.
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).