Cheesy Baked Garlic Grits Casserole
Indulge in this rich and creamy Cheesy Baked Garlic Grits Casserole, inspired by Paula Deen's original recipe. Perfectly cooked with a blend of flavorful chicken broth and zesty garlic, these grits are transformed into a delightful side dish that's both comforting and extravagant. Enhanced with sharp Cheddar cheeses and buttery goodness, this dish is ideal for serving at family gatherings or as a hearty companion to any meal. Enjoy the warm, gooey texture combined with a crispy cheese crust on top that invites seconds and thirds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken broth
6 cups (Bring to a boil.)
salt
1 teaspoon (Add to the broth.)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Add to the broth.)
garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon (Add to the broth.)
regular grits
2 cups (Whisk into the boiling broth.)
cheddar cheese
16 ounces (Cut into cubes.)
milk
1/2 cup (Add to the grits mixture.)
large eggs
4 (Beaten.)
unsalted butter
1/2 cup (Melted.)
grated sharp white cheddar cheese
8 ounces (Sprinkle on top before baking.)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2
Grease a 4-quart casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
3
In a 2-quart saucepan, bring the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to a rolling boil.
4
Once boiling, slowly whisk in the regular grits, ensuring there are no lumps.
5
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer the grits, stirring occasionally until they thicken, about 8 to 10 minutes.
6
Remove from heat and stir in the cubed cheddar cheese and milk until combined and creamy.
7
Allow the mixture to cool slightly before gradually stirring in the beaten eggs and melted butter, mixing until everything is evenly incorporated.
8
Pour the grits mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
9
Sprinkle the grated sharp white cheddar cheese over the top for a deliciously cheesy crust.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Baked Garlic Grits Casserole?
It is a rich and creamy southern side dish made with grits, chicken broth, garlic, and a blend of cheddar cheeses, baked until golden and bubbly.
Who inspired this specific recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Paula Deen's original cheesy baked grits recipe.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
What size casserole dish is required?
You will need a 4-quart casserole dish for this recipe.
How much chicken broth is used?
The recipe calls for 6 cups of chicken broth.
Can I use regular grits for this dish?
Yes, the recipe specifically uses 2 cups of regular grits.
How long do the grits need to simmer on the stove?
The grits should simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes until they thicken.
What seasonings are added to the broth?
The broth is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
What type of cheese goes inside the grits mixture?
16 ounces of cheddar cheese, cut into cubes, is stirred into the grits.
How much milk is added to the mixture?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of milk.
How many eggs are needed?
You will need 4 large eggs, which should be beaten before adding to the mixture.
Does the butter need to be melted?
Yes, use 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
The casserole is topped with 8 ounces of grated sharp white cheddar cheese.
How long does the casserole bake?
It should bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The dish is ready when it is set and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Why do I need to let the grits cool slightly before adding eggs?
Cooling the grits slightly prevents the beaten eggs from scrambling when they are stirred in.
Should I grease the casserole dish?
Yes, you should grease the dish thoroughly to prevent the grits from sticking.
What is the preparation for the cheddar cheese inside the dish?
The 16 ounces of cheddar cheese should be cut into cubes.
Can I substitute the chicken broth?
While chicken broth adds flavor, you could use vegetable broth or water, though the flavor profile will change.
How do I avoid lumps in the grits?
Slowly whisk the grits into the boiling broth and stir occasionally while simmering.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as a comfort food and a classic southern cuisine side dish.
What is the texture of this casserole?
It has a warm, gooey interior with a crispy cheese crust on top.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the broth to compensate.
Is the garlic flavor strong?
It uses 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, providing a zesty but balanced garlic flavor.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients in this recipe.
Do I use instant or regular grits?
This recipe specifically calls for regular grits, not instant.
What should I serve this with?
It works well as a side dish for family gatherings or as a companion to any hearty meal.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese for the topping?
Yes, though freshly grated sharp white cheddar often melts more smoothly.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of salt.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
No, this is a savory grits recipe and does not list sugar as an ingredient.