Low-Fat Cheese Grits
Creamy, low-fat cheese grits with a hint of spice and green chilies, perfect for breakfast or side dishes, suitable for health-conscious or vegetarian diners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the grits in boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened.
- Add grated or chopped nonfat cheese, liquid Butter Buds, beaten Egg Beaters, garlic powder, and Tabasco sauce to the cooked grits.
- Stir in chopped green chilies if desired.
- Pour the mixture into a large glass casserole dish that has been sprayed with nonfat cooking spray.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 to 40 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative when mixing in the cheese. If you can't find Alpine Lace nonfat Cheddar cheese, any low-fat cheese can work, though it may alter the flavor slightly. Experiment with different spices or herbs for added flavor, such as paprika or oregano, which can complement this dish well.
Serving Suggestions
These Low-Fat Cheese Grits make a great side dish for breakfast, pairing well with eggs or turkey sausage. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch. For a comforting dinner, try serving them with grilled chicken or shrimp. This dish is versatile enough to complement many American recipes, making it a fantastic addition to any 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 microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water or milk to prevent drying out, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Cheese Grits contains roughly 319 calories, with 18g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1016mg per serving (44% 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 nonfat cheese?
Yes, you can use regular cheese, but it will increase the fat content of the dish. Choose a cheese that melts well, like Cheddar or Monterey Jack, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change. Adjust the amount of liquid Butter Buds accordingly to maintain the creaminess.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but ensure that the liquid Butter Buds you use are suitable for vegetarians. You can also enhance the flavor by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the grits mixture before baking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the grits mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving. If baking from cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).