Description
This delicious baked gouda cheese grits recipe combines creamy quick-cook grits with smoky gouda and sharp cheddar cheeses, baked to perfection for a comforting and cheesy side dish. Ideal for brunch or dinner, these baked cheese grits are rich, flavorful, and delightfully creamy with a golden crust.
Ingredients
Liquid and Seasonings
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Grits and Dairy
- 2 cups quick cook grits
- 8 oz smoked gouda, shredded or cubed
- 8 oz sharp cheddar, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup Half & Half
- 4 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the grits later on.
- Boil Broth and Garlic: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and minced garlic to a rolling boil to infuse the broth with garlic flavor.
- Cook Grits: Whisk in the quick cook grits thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps. Then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the grits until they thicken, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Butter: Stir in the shredded smoked gouda, sharp cheddar cheese, and butter one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated and the cheese melts smoothly into the grits.
- Mix in Dairy and Eggs: Add the half & half along with the beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined, creating a creamy cheese grits mixture.
- Bake the Grits: Pour the cheese grits mixture into a 4-quart casserole dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, until the center is fully set and the top is lightly golden.
Notes
- Use quick cook grits to reduce preparation time while still achieving a creamy texture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Shredding or cubing the gouda depends on your preference; shredding will melt faster and more evenly.
- Baking gives the grits a firm yet creamy texture with a nicely browned crust on top.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern