Lisbon'S Garlic Grits
Creamy garlic grits baked with cheese and eggs create a comforting side dish with rich flavors, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the grits according to the directions on the box.
- Add butter and cheese and stir until melted.
- Beat the eggs with milk to make 1 cup total, then add to the grits and stir until well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake at 325°F for 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk when mixing in the eggs. If you can't find garlic cheese, you can substitute with a combination of cream cheese and minced garlic. Adjust the salt according to taste, especially if your cheese is salty. Make sure to stir the grits frequently while cooking to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
These garlic grits are a hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with Southern-style meats like fried chicken or grilled sausages. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside sautéed greens or roasted vegetables. Top with fresh herbs or additional cheese for an extra flavor boost, and consider serving with a simple salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover garlic grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the grits in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lisbon'S Garlic Grits contains roughly 1118 calories, with 19g protein, 222g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1404mg per serving (61% 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 cheese instead of garlic cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer. Just add minced garlic or garlic powder to mimic the flavor of garlic cheese. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
How do I know when the grits are done cooking?
Grits are done when they are thick and creamy, usually after about 20-30 minutes of cooking. Taste them; they should be tender and have no grainy texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before, pour it into the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).