Baked Santa Fe Grits Recipe

Spice up your brunch or dinner with these creamy, cheesy Baked Santa Fe Grits! This recipe, inspired by Quaker Oats, transforms simple grits into a Southwestern delight perfect alongside barbequed chicken, ribs, or steak. Even grits skeptics will love this cheesy, flavorful casserole. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 144.2 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Baked Santa Fe Grits 49

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Baked Santa Fe Grits

  • 2 cups water
  • Quick Cooking Grits
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Monterey Jack Cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped green chilies (canned)
  • Eggs
  • Pimento Pepper

How to Make Baked Santa Fe Grits

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Spray 6 medium muffin cups or custard cups with non-stick cooking spray.
  3. Optionally, place 2 strips of pimento in the bottom of each cup to form an 'X'.
  4. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of quick-cooking grits and 1 teaspoon of salt.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 4-5 minutes, or until thickened, stirring frequently.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the following ingredients: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup chopped green chilies, 1/4 cup chopped red onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and 1/4 teaspoon of cumin.
  7. Spoon the grit mixture into the prepared cups, filling them to the top.
  8. Cover the cups with foil.
  9. Place the cups in a shallow baking pan and add enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the cups.
  10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set and golden brown.
  11. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before carefully unmolding onto a serving platter.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

9 g

Sugar

1g

Fat

20g

Carbs

3g