Pepper Cheese Grits(Even Those Who Don'T Like Grits, Like This!)
Creamy, cheesy pepper grits infused with jalapeno and cheddar offer a flavorful comfort dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, appealing to all tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir grits into boiling salted water.
- Cover and cook slowly for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Add all cheese except 3/4 cup and stir until melted.
- Blend a small amount of hot grits into beaten eggs, then stir eggs into the grits.
- Add garlic powder if used.
- Pour into a greased two-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra creaminess, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the grits. You can also substitute the jalapeno cheese with pepper jack for a spicier kick. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, ensure the cheeses used are rennet-free. Stirring in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pepper cheese grits as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. For a comforting brunch, serve with scrambled eggs or alongside dishes like Mary Wolf's Nut Roll for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the grits in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen them up as they warm. You can also microwave them, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Cheese Grits(Even Those Who Don'T Like Grits, Like This!) contains roughly 419 calories, with 8g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 521mg per serving (23% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits and cheese mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. On the day of serving, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binder. For each egg, combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level can vary based on the type of jalapeno cheese used. If you're sensitive to spice, consider using a milder cheese or reducing the amount of jalapeno cheese. Alternatively, you can balance the heat with a dollop of sour cream or a side of cooling yogurt.
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).