Baked Cheese Grits

Baked Cheese Grits Recipe - A Delicious Southern Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Baked Cheese Grits is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the creamy texture of grits with the rich flavor of melted cheese. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional grits, incorporating eggs and cheese to create a savory casserole that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for dinner. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to include various cheeses and seasonings, making it a staple in many households.

History

Grits have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, originally derived from Native American corn preparation. The addition of cheese and baking transforms the simple porridge into a more substantial and flavorful dish. The concept of baking grits with cheese likely evolved as a way to add nutritional value and variety to meals. Over time, Baked Cheese Grits has become a beloved recipe in the South, enjoyed by families for its comforting taste and easy preparation.

Ingredients

0.5 tsp of salt
2.67 cups of water
0.67 cup of quick-cooking hominy grits
2 tbsp of butter or margarine
6 oz (170 g) of shredded american cheese
2 beaten eggs
0.13 tsp of pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) (moderate) and grease a 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish. Add salt to the water and bring it to a full, rolling boil. Add the grits and return to the boiling point. Cook, stirring constantly, until very thick, about 6 minutes. Remove from heat and add the fat. Mix the cheese, eggs, and pepper, then stir them into the grits. Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Bake for 40 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve in 0.67 cup servings, with each serving containing approximately 230 calories.

Variations

To customize the recipe, consider adding diced ham, cooked bacon, or sautéed vegetables into the grits mixture before baking. For a spicier version, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Experimenting with different types of cheese can also change the flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best texture, use quick-cooking grits as specified in the recipe. Regular or stone-ground grits will require a longer cooking time and might result in a different texture. Ensure constant stirring when cooking the grits to prevent lumps. Gradually adding the cheese to the hot grits mixture helps it melt evenly. For a smoother finish, beat the eggs thoroughly before incorporating them into the grits.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Cheese Grits can be served as a standalone breakfast dish or paired with eggs, bacon, or sausage for a hearty brunch. It also makes an excellent side dish for dinner, especially with grilled meats or vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, creating a golden-brown crust on top while keeping the interior creamy and soft. For an extra crispy top, broil the baked grits for a few minutes at the end of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute margarine with olive oil and use low-fat cheese. Almond milk or soy milk can replace water for a creamier texture and added nutrients. Gluten-free quick-cooking grits can be used to make this dish gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

Baked Cheese Grits can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Simply add a few minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Baked Cheese Grits in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, or garnish the top with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for color and flavor. A sprinkle of paprika can add a pop of color and a hint of smokiness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Baked Cheese Grits with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish. For wine enthusiasts, a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of milk when reheating can help maintain the creamy texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Cheese Grits contains approximately 230 calories. The calories come from a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a moderately energy-dense meal option.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Baked Cheese Grits contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish is the grits, which are made from ground corn. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this dish can be a good source of quick energy, especially in the morning.

Fats

This recipe contains about 12 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being cheese and margarine. Using low-fat cheese or substituting margarine with a lower-fat alternative can reduce the fat content. However, the fat contributes to the creamy texture and rich flavor of the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of Baked Cheese Grits provides approximately 9 grams of protein, primarily from the cheese and eggs. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making this dish a good option for a post-workout meal or to start the day with a protein boost.

Vitamins and minerals

Baked Cheese Grits is a source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese, which is important for bone health. Eggs contribute vitamins D and B12, among others, supporting bone health and energy metabolism. Grits provide iron and B vitamins, essential for blood health and energy production.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens: dairy (cheese) and eggs. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Baked Cheese Grits is a balanced dish, providing carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle repair, and fats for flavor and satiety. It also offers a range of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for various meals.

Summary

Baked Cheese Grits is a versatile and comforting dish that combines the simplicity of grits with the indulgence of cheese and eggs. With its rich flavor, nutritional benefits, and easy customization, it's a recipe that can be enjoyed at any meal. Whether served as a cozy breakfast or a satisfying side dish, Baked Cheese Grits is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Baked Cheese Grits. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Oakdale. My grandmother, whom we affectionately called Mimi, was known for her incredible cooking skills. She could whip up a delicious meal out of just about anything, and her recipes were coveted by all who knew her.

One day, as I sat in Mimi's cozy kitchen watching her prepare dinner, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card from her recipe box. It was for Baked Cheese Grits, a dish I had never tasted before. I watched in awe as Mimi gathered the ingredients and began to work her magic in the kitchen.

As she grated the sharp cheddar cheese and measured out the creamy milk, I couldn't help but ask where she had learned this particular recipe. Mimi smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief.

"Well, my dear," she said, "this recipe has been passed down through the generations in our family. It's a closely guarded secret, but I think it's time I teach you how to make it."

I felt a surge of excitement at the thought of learning one of Mimi's coveted recipes. I eagerly took notes as she guided me through the steps, from cooking the grits to folding in the cheese and seasoning the dish to perfection.

As the Baked Cheese Grits baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, Mimi regaled me with stories of how she had learned the recipe herself. She told me that she had first tasted the dish at a family gathering many years ago, and had been determined to recreate it ever since.

"It took me years of trial and error to perfect this recipe," Mimi said with a chuckle. "But now, it's one of my signature dishes. And soon, it will be yours too."

I beamed with pride at the thought of carrying on Mimi's culinary legacy. When the Baked Cheese Grits emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling hot, I couldn't wait to dig in. The cheesy grits were rich and flavorful, with a creamy texture that melted in my mouth.

From that day on, Baked Cheese Grits became a staple in our family's meals. Whenever we gathered for Sunday dinners or holiday feasts, Mimi would always whip up a batch of her famous grits, much to the delight of everyone at the table.

As the years passed and I grew older, I continued to make Mimi's Baked Cheese Grits for my own family. I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different cheeses and seasonings to create a dish that was uniquely mine.

But no matter how many variations I tried, Mimi's original recipe remained my favorite. It was a taste of my childhood, a reminder of the love and care that went into every meal she cooked.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Baked Cheese Grits for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. Mimi may no longer be with us, but her spirit lives on in every bite of this delicious dish.

And as I watch my grandchildren take their first tentative bites of the cheesy grits, I know that I am passing on more than just a recipe. I am passing on a piece of our family's history, a taste of tradition that will live on for generations to come.