Pimento Cheese Baked Grits
Creamy baked grits infused with sharp cheese and tender pimentos, topped with a golden crust. Perfect comfort food for brunch, side dishes, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat milk together with butter.
- Blend in cooked grits until mixture is smooth.
- Add grated cheese, chopped pimentos, salt, and beaten eggs; mix well.
- Pour mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for about 30 to 40 minutes or until grits are firm and lightly browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to enhance the flavor, experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or gouda. You can also add some spices like cayenne or garlic powder for a kick. Leftover grits can be used in other dishes, so don’t hesitate to double the recipe!
Serving Suggestions
These pimento cheese baked grits make a fantastic side dish for brunch or a savory breakfast. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve alongside fried chicken for a hearty meal. They also complement well with other Southern favorites, so consider serving them with a side of collard greens or biscuits. For a delightful twist, enjoy them with a fruit platter or as part of a spread featuring 'My Favorite Cheese Ball'.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pimento Cheese Baked Grits contains roughly 443 calories, with 9g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1635mg 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. If baking from cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the pimentos?
If you can't find pimentos, roasted red peppers or even jalapeños can be great alternatives. They will still provide a wonderful flavor and color to the dish. Just make sure to chop them finely to blend well into the mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this pimento cheese baked grits recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat products. It’s a great option for anyone looking for comforting vegetarian recipes, and you can easily adapt it by using plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
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).