Introduction

Baked Gouda Cheese Grits are a creamy, cheesy twist on classic Southern grits. This comforting dish combines smoky gouda and sharp cheddar for a rich, satisfying side perfect for any meal.

A small white square plate holds a creamy yellow dish with a slightly grainy texture, topped with a golden-brown crispy layer on one side, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. A silver fork is partially beneath the food on the right side, pushing into the creamy portion. The plate is on top of another white plate, all resting on a table with a white marbled texture and a blue floral cloth underneath. In the upper right corner, part of a white bowl with a similar golden crispy top is visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 cups chicken broth
1 tsp minced garlic
2 cups quick cook grits
8 oz smoked gouda, shredded or cubed
8 oz sharp cheddar, shredded
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup Half & Half
4 beaten eggs
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and minced garlic to a boil.
Step 3: Whisk in the quick cook grits, making sure to stir continuously to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, and butter one at a time, ensuring each melts completely before adding the next.
Step 5: Add the Half & Half, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper, stirring until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Pour the cheesy grits mixture into a 4-quart casserole dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, use whole milk instead of Half & Half.
Add chopped cooked bacon or sautéed onions for added flavor.
Swap smoked gouda with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese.
If you prefer a crustier top, broil the grits for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Storage

Store leftover baked gouda cheese grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

A white oval baking dish filled with a creamy, baked casserole that has a browned top layer sprinkled with green herbs. The casserole shows a thick, smooth creamy texture underneath the golden brown crust. A wooden spoon is digging into the casserole, revealing the soft, pale yellow inside. Next to the dish is a small white square plate with a serving of the casserole, showing a crispy, browned top layer and creamy inside, also garnished with green herbs. All is placed on a white marbled surface with a blue floral cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

What can I serve with baked gouda cheese grits?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or slow-cooked meats, making it a versatile side for many meals.

Baked Gouda Cheese Grits Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.8 from 57 reviews

A creamy, cheesy baked grits casserole featuring smoked gouda and sharp cheddar cheeses, enriched with butter, eggs, and half & half for a rich and comforting Southern-style side dish perfect for brunch or dinner.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale

Broth and Seasoning

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

Eggs

4 beaten eggs

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F to prepare for baking the grits later.
Boil Broth and Garlic: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and minced garlic to a boil.
Cook Grits: Whisk in the quick cook grits carefully, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the grits thicken, typically 8-10 minutes.
Add Cheeses and Butter: Stir in the shredded smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, and butter one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the half & half, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper to the grits mixture. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.
Bake the Grits: Pour the prepared cheese grits into a 4-quart casserole dish, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set and the top is slightly golden.

Notes

Use quick cook grits for a faster cooking time, but traditional stone-ground grits can be used with longer cooking.
Smoked gouda adds a nice depth of flavor but can be substituted with regular gouda if unavailable.
Ensure eggs are well-beaten to help the casserole set properly during baking.
For a richer texture, you can substitute part of the chicken broth with additional half & half or cream.
This dish pairs beautifully with breakfast meats or sautéed greens for a hearty meal.

Keywords: baked grits, gouda cheese grits, cheesy grits casserole, Southern grits recipe, comfort food side dish