Tomato Grits Casserole
Creamy, cheesy tomato grits casserole combines bold cheddar flavors with green onions and processed cheese, creating a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil.
- Add salt and slowly stir in the quick cooking grits.
- Return to a boil, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 3 minutes.
- While stirring the grits, add 1/2 cup of butter and stir until melted.
- Cover and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes or until grits are thick and creamy.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté green onions in remaining 1 tablespoon of butter for 1 minute.
- Add processed cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the onions.
- Stir until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
- Add diced tomatoes and chilies to the cheese mixture.
- Mix well and pour the mixture into a greased 8x11x2 inch casserole pan.
- Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of 1% or 2%. You can substitute the processed cheddar cheese with any melty cheese like Monterey Jack for a different flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture. To enhance the dish's flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or use fresh herbs like parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Grits Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For brunch, it complements dishes like Delicious Whole Wheat Bread, making it a versatile option. Garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for a couple of minutes. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Grits Casserole contains roughly 181 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1296mg per serving (56% 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 use regular grits instead of quick cooking grits?
Yes, you can use regular grits, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Regular grits typically take longer to cook, about 30-40 minutes. Be sure to follow the package instructions for best results, and add extra water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for the processed cheddar cheese?
If you prefer not to use processed cheese, you can substitute it with an equal amount of shredded cheese such as sharp cheddar or gouda. Just be aware that the texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious. Mixing in a bit of cream cheese can help maintain creaminess.
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).