Mexican Grits Casserole (Second)
A savory Mexican-inspired casserole combining creamy cheesy grits with green chilies, olives, and bacon, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 5 cups water ⓘ
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 small can chopped green chilies ⓘ
- 1 small can sliced black olives ⓘ
- 6 strips crispy cooked bacon, crumbled ⓘ
- 8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded ⓘ
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook grits, salt, and water for 10 minutes.
- Cool for 30 minutes.
- Fold all remaining ingredients into the cooled grits.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Let the casserole set for 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of water for cooking the grits. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese. This casserole can easily be customized with other ingredients, making it a versatile dish in the realm of Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Grits Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some sautéed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Opal'S Mexican Chicken Soup for a comforting, hearty experience. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for added flavor and texture. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Grits Casserole (Second) contains roughly 312 calories, with 13g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1633mg per serving (71% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will help ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream of chicken soup, consider using a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. You can also use a vegetable broth-based soup for a lighter option, making this dish suitable for vegetarian diets.
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).