Grits With Cheese
Creamy, cheesy grits with a hint of garlic and red pepper make a comforting side dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any meat accompaniment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the grits in water until tender.
- Remove from heat and add the beaten egg yolks, grated cheese, butter, garlic powder, and red pepper; stir until well combined.
- Fold in the beaten egg whites gently.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes until set and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the grits. You can also substitute the Kraft American cheese with any melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack if desired. Adjust the garlic powder and red pepper to suit your taste preferences. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy grits dish as a comforting side to fried chicken or grilled shrimp for a delicious Southern-inspired meal. It also pairs beautifully with Homemade Ice Cream Peanut Butter for dessert. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside sautéed greens or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of milk or water to prevent drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also re-bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grits With Cheese contains roughly 1935 calories, with 87g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 169g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (175% of the Daily Value), iron (154% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (138% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 825mg per serving (36% 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 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 convenient for meal prep and entertaining.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat level, you can add more red pepper or include diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture before baking. Adjust according to your spice tolerance for the best flavor.
Can I use gluten-free grits for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute regular grits with gluten-free grits. Just make sure to check the packaging to confirm they are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur during processing.
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).