Southern-Style Cheesy Grits Bake
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of the South with this Southern-Style Cheesy Grits Bake. This delightful dish showcases creamy, cheesy grits baked to perfection, making it a perfect side for any meal. Whether you're swapping out traditional potatoes or looking for a brunch centerpiece, this recipe delivers a savory punch with bold ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese, zesty garlic, and a kick from Tabasco sauce. Easy to prepare, this baked grits dish will bring a taste of Southern hospitality to your table, perfect for sharing with family and friends!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
salt
1 1/2 teaspoons (N/A)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (N/A)
butter
4 tablespoons (or margarine)
sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups (shredded (or medium cheddar))
half-and-half cream
1/2 cup (or evaporated milk)
garlic
2 teaspoons (minced)
onion
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
Tabasco sauce
4-5 dashes (or red pepper sauce)
green chilies
1 (4 ounce) can (optional)
eggs
2 (well beaten)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern-Style Cheesy Grits Bake?
It is a warm, comforting Southern dish featuring creamy, cheesy grits baked to perfection, suitable as a side dish or brunch centerpiece.
What type of cheese is best for this grits bake?
The recipe recommends using 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, though medium cheddar is a suitable alternative.
Can I substitute butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use 4 tablespoons of either butter or margarine depending on your preference.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe calls for 2 large eggs, which should be well beaten before being added.
What can I use if I do not have half-and-half cream?
You can use an equal amount of evaporated milk as a substitute for the 1/2 cup of half-and-half cream.
How much garlic is used in this dish?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of minced garlic to provide a zesty punch.
Is the onion in the recipe supposed to be cooked beforehand?
The instructions specify 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, but it does not require pre-cooking before being mixed into the bake.
Is this grits bake spicy?
It has a mild kick from 4-5 dashes of Tabasco sauce and optional green chilies, but it is primarily savory and cheesy.
Are green chilies a required ingredient?
No, the 4-ounce can of green chilies is an optional addition for those who want extra flavor.
Can I use red pepper sauce instead of Tabasco?
Yes, red pepper sauce is an acceptable substitute for the Tabasco sauce.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
What is the recommended serving occasion for this dish?
It is perfect as a breakfast side, a brunch centerpiece, or a savory side dish for any Southern-style meal.
Does this recipe replace traditional potato dishes?
Yes, it is suggested as a great alternative to traditional potato sides for those looking for something different.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, the recipe is described as easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
What is the texture of the finished grits bake?
The bake is designed to be creamy and cheesy on the inside while being baked to a firm, perfection-level consistency.
How much cheese is needed for the recipe?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Is the garlic fresh or powdered?
The recipe specifies using 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, which usually implies fresh or jarred minced garlic.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, as written, the recipe contains no meat and is suitable for vegetarians who consume eggs and dairy.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The dish is characterized by savory sharp cheddar, zesty garlic, and a hint of heat from Tabasco.
How do I prepare the eggs?
The 2 eggs should be well beaten before they are incorporated into the grits mixture.
Can I use medium cheddar instead of sharp?
Yes, shredded medium cheddar is a perfectly fine substitute for sharp cheddar.
How many dashes of Tabasco are recommended?
The recipe suggests using 4 to 5 dashes of Tabasco sauce.
What is the size of the green chilies can?
If you choose to use them, the recipe recommends one 4-ounce can.
Is this a traditional Southern recipe?
Yes, it is a Southern-style recipe designed to deliver authentic Southern hospitality and flavors.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for 4 tablespoons of either butter or margarine.
What category of food does this fall under?
It is categorized as a baked side dish, specifically a Southern grits bake.
Is the onion finely chopped?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion.
Does this recipe contain fiber information?
Nutritional information such as fiber, calories, and fat are not specified in this particular recipe data.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no sugar listed in the ingredients for this savory bake.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients listed, including the optional green chilies.