Owens Sausage Deep Fried Cheese Grits
Creamy cheesy grits infused with savory Owens sausage and vibrant bell peppers, perfect for comfort food lovers seeking bold flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large saucepan; add salt and quick grits. Return to a boil, reduce heat, and cook for 5 minutes.
- In a separate pan, sauté chopped onion and red bell pepper in margarine until the onion is transparent; set aside.
- Add grated Cheddar cheese to the cooked grits until melted and well incorporated.
- Add browned and drained Owens sausage, sautéed vegetables, and stir to mix.
- Dredge sausage sticks in flour before deep-frying until golden and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika to the grits mixture. If you don't have quick grits, regular grits can be used, but cooking time will be longer. You can substitute Owens sausage with any other cooked sausage or a vegetarian alternative if desired. Make sure to let the mixture cool before forming sticks for easier handling.
Serving Suggestions
These deep-fried cheese grits make a fantastic appetizer or snack and can be served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also complement well with chicken recipes like Breast Of Chicken 'Au Champignon' for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover deep-fried cheese grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Owens Sausage Deep Fried Cheese Grits contains roughly 563 calories, with 20g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1452mg per serving (63% 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 prepare the grits mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to fry, simply form sticks and dredge in flour before frying. This can save time, especially when entertaining guests.
What type of oil is best for deep frying?
For deep frying, use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures needed for frying without breaking down, ensuring crispy and golden results for your cheese grits.
Can I freeze the leftover cheese grits?
Yes, you can freeze leftover cheese grits. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions.
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).