Baked Cheese Garlic Grits Recipe

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Baked Cheese Garlic Grits! This Southern-inspired side dish elevates simple grits to a whole new level of flavor. Imagine perfectly cooked grits infused with savory garlic, melted cheese, and a touch of richness. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for brunch, alongside fried fish, or as a delightful complement to baked ham. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 236.7 kcal
Protein 18g
Rating 4.3 (6 Reviews)
Baked Cheese Garlic Grits

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Baked Cheese Garlic Grits

  • 4 cups water
  • Kosher Salt
  • Quick Cooking Grits
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • Unsalted Butter
  • Whole Milk
  • Garlic Clove
  • 2 large eggs

How to Make Baked Cheese Garlic Grits

  1. Bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan.
  2. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of coarse ground grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the grits are tender and creamy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Stir until the cheese and butter are completely melted and incorporated.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs.
  6. Gradually whisk 1/4 cup of the cooked grits into the eggs to temper them, preventing the eggs from scrambling.
  7. Gently pour the egg mixture into the remaining grits and stir until well combined.
  8. Pour the grits mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

12 g

Sugar

4g

Fat

44g

Carbs

5g