Spinach Grits
Creamy spinach grits with tender potatoes and melted cheeses create a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Rich, hearty, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 servings instant grits ⓘ
- 1 can chicken broth ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp dry wine ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 tsp ground red pepper ⓘ
- 1 pkg frozen chopped spinach ⓘ
- 1 c grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 c fat-free Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1 1/4 c prepared barbecue sauce ⓘ
- 1 1/4 c water ⓘ
- 2 tsp dried thyme ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp chicken bouillon ⓘ
- 1 1/3 lb potatoes ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large saute pan, combine all ingredients except potatoes and bring to a boil.
- Add potatoes; cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using whole milk instead of water. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bouillon. You can also use fresh spinach if available, just sauté it briefly before adding it to the grits. Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially if you opt for low-sodium broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach grits as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with Barbecue Chicken(Mildred'S Way) or can be served as a base for a poached egg for a delicious breakfast option. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the grits to loosen them up before warming them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Grits contains roughly 824 calories, with 24g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (278% of the Daily Value), iron (81% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 spinach grits ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them when you're ready to serve. For best results, add a bit of liquid when reheating to restore their creamy consistency.
What can I substitute for the frozen spinach?
If you don't have frozen spinach, fresh spinach can work well. Use about 6 cups of fresh spinach, sauté it until wilted, and then mix it into the grits as you would with the frozen variety. Ensure to adjust seasoning as fresh spinach may have a different flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat level, you can add extra ground red pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste preference, especially if serving to guests with varying spice tolerances.
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).