Baked Gouda Cheese Grits: A Southern Comfort Dish with a Gourmet Twist
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food with a touch of gourmet flair, this Baked Gouda Cheese Grits recipe will hit the spot. The creamy texture of the grits combined with the smoky, rich flavor of gouda and sharp cheddar makes this dish a delicious side or even a stand-alone meal. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these cheese grits will elevate any occasion.
The addition of smoked gouda gives the dish a unique, slightly smoky flavor, while the sharp cheddar adds that classic cheesy goodness. Baking the grits creates a rich, custardy texture that’s absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups quick cook grits
- 8 oz smoked gouda, shredded or cubed
- 8 oz sharp cheddar, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup Half & Half
- 4 beaten eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 4-quart casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and minced garlic to a boil. This will infuse the broth with a savory garlic flavor.
3. Cook the Grits:
Whisk in the quick cook grits, making sure there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the grits for 8-10 minutes, until they thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Once the grits have thickened, stir in the shredded smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, and butter. Allow the cheeses to melt into the grits, creating a smooth and creamy base.
5. Finish the Mixture:
Next, stir in the Half & Half, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. This adds richness and helps the dish set when baked.
6. Bake:
Pour the cheesy grits mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Serve:
Once baked, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. These Baked Gouda Cheese Grits are best served hot and can be enjoyed as a side dish or on their own.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories per Serving: 290 kcal
Why You’ll Love These Baked Gouda Cheese Grits:
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, and butter makes these grits ultra-creamy and full of flavor.
- Smoky and Savory: The smoked gouda gives the dish a slight smoky flavor, elevating the traditional grits recipe into something special.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making brunch for a crowd, serving it as a side at dinner, or enjoying it solo, these cheese grits are versatile and comforting.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is great for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Serving Suggestions:
These Baked Gouda Cheese Grits are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or sausage for a hearty morning meal.
- Brunch: Pair with fried chicken or shrimp for a Southern-style brunch that will impress your guests.
- Dinner: These grits make a wonderful side for roasted meats, barbecue, or even grilled vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Squeeze in Extra Flavor: You can easily add other ingredients to the dish, such as sautéed onions, garlic, or jalapeños, for an added kick of flavor.
- Substitutions: Feel free to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can also swap out the gouda for a different cheese like fontina or Gruyere, depending on your preference.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the grits mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and then pop it in the oven.
Final Thoughts:
Baked Gouda Cheese Grits are the epitome of comfort food, with their rich, cheesy texture and deep, savory flavors. The combination of smoked gouda and sharp cheddar adds a sophisticated touch to this classic Southern dish. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or for a special holiday meal, these grits are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Baked Gouda Cheese Grits
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
These Baked Gouda Cheese Grits are the epitome of Southern comfort food, combining the rich, smoky flavor of gouda with the creamy texture of grits. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese gives this dish an extra depth of flavor, while the Half & Half and butter create a velvety smooth consistency. Perfect as a side dish for brunch, dinner, or even a holiday gathering, these baked grits are both indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 cups quick cook grits
8 oz smoked gouda, shredded or cubed
8 oz sharp cheddar, shredded
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup Half & Half
4 beaten eggs
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and minced garlic to a boil.
Whisk in the quick cook grits, making sure there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the grits thicken.
Stir in the shredded smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, and butter, allowing each to melt into the grits.
Add the Half & Half, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper, stirring until well combined.
Pour the cheesy grits mixture into a 4-quart casserole dish.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 290