Shelly'S Green Chili Cheese Grits
Creamy green chili cheese grits blend sharp cheddar, green chilies, and buttery richness, creating a comforting dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or hearty side for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slowly stir the quick grits into boiling water.
- Boil for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Pour the cooked grits into a large mixing bowl.
- Add beaten eggs, butter, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped green chilies.
- Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a flat baking dish.
- Bake for 1 hour at 300°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of water for cooking the grits. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with a milder cheese, like Monterey Jack, if preferred. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the flavor. If you like more heat, try adding diced jalapeños along with the green chilies.
Serving Suggestions
These Green Chili Cheese Grits are perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with Sour Cream Corn Pudding for a comforting meal. Consider topping with a dollop of sour cream or fresh cilantro for added flavor. They also make a great base for a breakfast bowl topped with eggs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the grits in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the mixture. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shelly'S Green Chili Cheese Grits contains roughly 1724 calories, with 30g protein, 226g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (68% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1402mg per serving (61% 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 mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
Can I freeze the green chili cheese grits?
Yes, you can freeze the baked grits. Allow them to cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the grits?
You can enhance the flavor by adding cooked and crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or bell peppers to the mixture. For a twist, try mixing in some cooked sausage or even a splash of hot sauce for extra heat. Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles!
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).