Savory Cheddar Grits Casserole
This Savory Cheddar Grits Casserole is a comforting dish that brings back the warmth of summer fish fries at family gatherings. A creamy, cheesy base of quick-cooking grits is combined with melted sharp cheddar, buttery goodness, and fluffy eggs, creating a dish that's both rich and satisfying. Perfectly baked until golden brown, this casserole makes for an excellent side dish or a hearty breakfast option. Serve it alongside your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own. No matter how you serve it, leftovers are a rarity with this crowd-pleaser.
8
Servings
250
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
4 cups (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
quick-cooking grits
1 cup (none)
sharp cheddar cheese
16 ounces (shredded)
butter
1/4 cup (melted)
eggs
2 (slightly beaten)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil.
2
Once boiling, gradually whisk in 1 cup of quick-cooking grits, stirring constantly to prevent clumps.
3
Return to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4
After simmering, remove the pot from heat and allow the grits to cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
5
Stir in 16 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 2 slightly beaten eggs until well combined and smooth. Ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7
Pour the grits mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is a light golden brown.
9
Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite seafood or as a standalone meal!
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
19g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cheddar Grits Casserole?
It is a comforting southern dish featuring a creamy, cheesy base of quick-cooking grits mixed with sharp cheddar, butter, and eggs, then baked until golden.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients are water, salt, quick-cooking grits, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, melted butter, and eggs.
How much cheese is required?
You will need 16 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Can I use regular grits instead of quick-cooking grits?
The recipe specifically calls for quick-cooking grits to match the 5-minute simmering instructions; regular grits would require a longer cook time.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
How long does the casserole need to bake?
It should bake for approximately 50 minutes or until set and golden brown.
What size baking dish is needed?
A greased 9x13 inch casserole dish is recommended.
Why are eggs used in this grits recipe?
The eggs help bind the casserole and give it a fluffy, satisfying texture.
How do I prevent the grits from clumping?
Gradually whisk the grits into the boiling water while stirring constantly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake when ready.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are 250 calories per serving.
Is this Savory Cheddar Grits Casserole gluten-free?
Grits are corn-based and naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific ingredient labels for cross-contamination.
What side dishes go well with this casserole?
It pairs perfectly with seafood, fried fish, or as a standalone breakfast dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can this grits casserole be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it after it has been baked and cooled.
Can I use a different cheese than sharp cheddar?
While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can substitute other melting cheeses like mild cheddar or Monterey Jack.
What if I do not have butter?
Margarine can be used, though butter is preferred for the best flavor profile.
How much protein does this dish contain?
Each serving contains 10 grams of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe.
How should the eggs be prepared?
The eggs should be slightly beaten before being stirred into the grits mixture.
Do I need to cook the grits before baking?
Yes, they should be simmered in water for 5 minutes before adding other ingredients.
Why must the grits cool before adding eggs?
Letting them cool slightly prevents the eggs from scrambling immediately when added to the hot pot.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving has 19 grams of carbohydrates.
Can I add extra seasonings?
Yes, many people enjoy adding garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 15 grams of fat per serving.
Should I cover the dish with foil while baking?
No, bake it uncovered so the top can turn a light golden brown.
How can I tell when the casserole is done?
The casserole should be firm/set and the top should be a light golden brown color.
Is this recipe good for breakfast?
Absolutely, it is a very popular and hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, you can halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, such as an 8x8 inch pan.