Wild Grits
Wild Grits is a savory baked dish featuring creamy hominy grits combined with Parmesan, onion, and pepper, topped with bread crumbs and cheese—perfect for hearty, comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add grits to boiling salted water and cook, reducing heat to simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cool for 30 minutes.
- Add baking powder, ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese, onion flakes, and black pepper to the cooked grits. Mix well.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg and combine with milk.
- Add the egg and milk mixture to the cooked grits and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Top with remaining Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier grits, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, any aged cheese like Pecorino Romano or Gruyère can work well. To enhance flavor, try adding sautéed garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. For a spicy kick, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Wild Grits as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. They also pair beautifully with a fried egg on top for a satisfying breakfast. For a vegetarian option, consider serving them with sautéed greens or roasted vegetables. Explore more American recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the grits to restore creaminess, and warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wild Grits contains roughly 249 calories, with 4g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 800mg per serving (35% 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 Wild Grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can save you time on a busy day.
What can I substitute for white hominy grits?
If you can't find white hominy grits, you can substitute them with regular corn grits or polenta. The texture may differ slightly, but the dish will still be delicious. Adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the grits you choose.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free bread crumbs. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet gluten-free standards. This makes it a great option for those following gluten-free diets.
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).