Heart-Healthy Garlic Cheese Grits
Heart-healthy garlic cheese grits combine creamy nonfat cheese, garlic, and cayenne for a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for brunch or a wholesome dinner option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 6 cups of water to a rapid boil with 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups of grits with a fork.
- Cook until all water is absorbed.
- Stir in 1 stick of Promise margarine.
- Little by little, carefully add Scramblers, grated nonfat Cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper.
- Place the mixture into a greased 2 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water. You can also substitute the nonfat Cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic or use garlic powder instead. To enhance the dish, add fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these heart-healthy garlic cheese grits as a delicious side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or pair them with sautéed greens for a complete meal. They also work well as a base for a hearty breakfast, topped with a poached egg. For more comforting options, browse more American recipes that embrace healthy ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the grits and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heart-Healthy Garlic Cheese Grits contains roughly 90 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1059mg per serving (46% 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 vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the Promise margarine with a plant-based butter and using a vegan cheese alternative. The Scramblers egg substitute can also be replaced with a flaxseed meal mixed with water for a similar binding effect.
What can I serve with garlic cheese grits?
These grits pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled shrimp, sautéed vegetables, or even fried chicken for a comforting meal. For breakfast, topping them with a runny egg can elevate the flavors and add protein.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level of the dish, you can modify the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a pinch and gradually increase. Alternatively, you can add fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
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).