Mexican Grits

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Mexican

Creamy, cheesy Mexican-inspired grits infused with chopped chile peppers, perfect for breakfast or comfort food, appealing to cheese lovers and those craving bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup grits
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 pound diced Velveeta cheese
  • 2 beaten eggs
  • 1 small can chopped chile peppers (Del Monte)
  • 2 tablespoons oleo

Instructions

  1. Cook the grits, salt, and water in a pot until thick.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in diced Velveeta cheese until melted and smooth.
  3. Add beaten eggs, chopped chile peppers, and oleo; mix well.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased 8 x 12-inch baking dish.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the grits while cooking. If you don't have Velveeta, a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese can create a similar creamy texture. For a vegetarian option, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture. For added texture, mix in some cooked chorizo or black beans, inspired by other Mexican recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican Grits as a hearty breakfast topped with avocado slices and pico de gallo. They also make a great side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread with dishes like Nan'S Taco Dip and Fiesta Taco Dip. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water or milk to maintain moisture. Cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mexican Grits contains roughly 428 calories, with 11g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1645mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).

428 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.9g 22% DV
Total Fat 7.7g 10% DV
Carbs 84.8g 31% DV
Fiber 11.3g 40% DV
Sugar 16.5g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1644.7mg 72% DV
Potassium 1077.7mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 159mg 53% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 538.3mcg 60% DV
Vitamin C 12.1mg 13% DV
Calcium 256.6mg 20% DV
Iron 6.5mg 36% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 Mexican Grits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving. If baking from cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

What can I use instead of diced chile peppers?

If you prefer less heat, you can use mild green bell peppers or omit them altogether. Alternatively, diced jalapeños or fresh diced tomatoes can provide a different flavor profile without overpowering the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the grits you use are labeled gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check the packaging to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives.

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).

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