Cheesy Jalapeño Grits Bake
Start your day off right with this creamy, savory Cheesy Jalapeño Grits Bake! Bursting with flavor, this hearty casserole combines the rich taste of aged cheddar and the zesty kick of fresh jalapeños, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch. Best enjoyed alongside flaky biscuits and rich sausage gravy, it’s a filling meal that will keep you energized all morning long. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or reheat the leftovers, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite that warms the heart and tums alike!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Old cheddar cheese
1 lb (grated)
Butter
1/2 cup (softened)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (optional for heat)
Garlic cloves
3 (minced)
Jalapeños
4-6 (minced)
Eggs
6 (whisked)
Hot grits
1 cup (cooked)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8 1/2 x 11-inch casserole dish with butter.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot grits with the grated cheese, softened butter, minced garlic, cayenne pepper, salt, and minced jalapeños. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly until fluffy. Gently fold the whisked eggs into the grit mixture until evenly combined.
4
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and lightly golden on top.
6
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of the Cheesy Jalapeño Grits Bake?
This dish features a creamy and savory flavor profile combining rich aged cheddar with a zesty kick from fresh jalapeños.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
What size casserole dish is recommended?
An 8 1/2 x 11-inch casserole dish is recommended for this bake.
How should I prepare the baking dish?
You should grease the casserole dish with butter before adding the mixture.
How much cheddar cheese is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of old cheddar cheese, grated.
How many jalapeños should I use?
You should use between 4 and 6 minced jalapeños depending on your heat preference.
How many eggs are required for this casserole?
Six eggs are used in this recipe.
What is the recommended preparation for the eggs?
The eggs should be whisked thoroughly until they are fluffy before being folded into the mixture.
How much butter is used in the grits mixture?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of softened butter.
Do the grits need to be cooked beforehand?
Yes, you should use 1 cup of hot, cooked grits.
How much garlic is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3 minced garlic cloves.
Is there any additional spice added for heat?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper can be added for extra heat.
How long does the Cheesy Jalapeño Grits Bake need to bake?
It should bake for about 40-45 minutes.
How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
The dish is ready when it is set in the center and lightly golden on top.
Should the casserole be served immediately?
It is best to let it cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing and serving.
What are some suggested pairings for this dish?
It is delicious served alongside flaky biscuits and rich sausage gravy.
Can I adjust the amount of salt?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1 teaspoon of salt, but it can be adjusted to taste.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your casserole dish.
How do I incorporate the eggs into the grits?
Gently fold the whisked eggs into the grit mixture until they are evenly combined.
What type of cheese provides the best flavor?
Old cheddar cheese is recommended for its rich, aged taste.
Is the garlic used whole or minced?
The garlic should be minced for even distribution throughout the bake.
Can this dish be eaten for brunch?
Absolutely, it is described as a hearty casserole perfect for both breakfast and brunch.
What texture should the grits mixture have before adding eggs?
The mixture of grits, cheese, butter, and spices should be well incorporated and creamy.
Is the cayenne pepper mandatory?
No, the cayenne pepper is optional and used specifically to add heat.
Does the recipe use fresh or canned jalapeños?
The recipe specifies fresh minced jalapeños for a zesty kick.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this dish.
Is the butter melted or softened?
The butter should be softened to ensure it mixes well with the hot grits.
Can leftovers be reheated?
Yes, the recipe notes that leftovers can be reheated and remain a comforting meal.
How should the jalapeños be prepared?
The jalapeños should be minced before being added to the grit mixture.
What type of meal is this considered?
It is a hearty, comfort food casserole designed to be a filling meal.