Mexican Cheese Grits
Bring a bold twist to Southern comfort food with this irresistible Mexican Cheese Grits recipe! Combining the creamy, hearty texture of grits with the vibrant flavors of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and zesty diced green chilies, this baked dish is infused with smoky paprika, garlic, and chili powder for a rich, layered taste. Perfect as a standout side dish or a crowd-pleasing accompaniment to your favorite Mexican-inspired meals, this recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and bakes to golden perfection in under 35 minutes. Topped with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness, it's the ultimate fusion of Southern soul and Mexican spice. Ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings, these cheesy, baked grits are sure to steal the spotlight!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits (quick or regular)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces diced green chilies (canned, mild or hot)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil over medium-high heat.
Gradually whisk in the grits, reducing the heat to low. Cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy.
Remove the grits from the heat and stir in the butter until fully melted and incorporated.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Mix the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, diced green chilies, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder into the grits. Stir until well combined.
Temper the beaten eggs by adding a few tablespoons of hot grits into the eggs while stirring constantly, then mix the tempered eggs back into the grits mixture.
Pour the grits mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Serve hot as a flavorful side dish or pair it with your favorite Mexican-inspired main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2845 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 175.1 g | 224% | |
| Saturated Fat | 104.4 g | 522% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 827 mg | 276% | |
| Sodium | 5087 mg | 221% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 228.1 g | 83% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.4 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.9 g | ||
| Protein | 109.4 g | 219% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.5 mcg | 18% | |
| Calcium | 2464 mg | 190% | |
| Iron | 15.8 mg | 88% | |
| Potassium | 906 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
