Hearty Cheese Grits
Creamy, cheesy grits with sharp Cheddar flavor, perfect for comforting brunches or family dinners, appealing to cheese lovers and those seeking hearty Southern-style comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water and salt; bring to a boil.
- Stir in grits; cook until done, following package directions.
- Remove from heat.
- Add butter and 3 3/4 cups cheese; stir until cheese melts.
- Add a small amount of hot grits to beaten eggs, stirring well.
- Stir the egg mixture into the remaining hot grits.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 2 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese; bake an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half and half instead of butter. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a different variety, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor. Make sure to stir the grits continuously while cooking to prevent clumping. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These hearty cheese grits make a fantastic side dish for fried chicken or shrimp and grits, enhancing the meal with their creamy texture and rich flavor. For a vegetarian twist, pair them with sautéed greens or roasted vegetables. Consider serving with a side of cornbread to complete the Southern-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the grits in a saucepan over low heat and stir in a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Cheese Grits contains roughly 1982 calories, with 16g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 132g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1381mg per serving (60% 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. Simply assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water equals one egg). Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or silken tofu can also work well to bind the ingredients.
Can I freeze the baked cheese grits?
Yes, baked cheese grits can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).