Baked Cheese Grits

By popular demand, I am sharing the recipe for Baked Cheese Grits. My brother-in-law is actually the one that turned me on to this recipe. They can be served any time of day…breakfast, lunch or dinner. Baked Cheese Grits make an excellent side dish for most any meal. Besides, they're a staple here in the South!


Baked Cheese Grits

1 qt. (4 cups) water
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup quick-cooking grits
1 cup KRAFT Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, divided
1/4 lb. (4 oz.) VELVEETA Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product, cut up
2 Tbsp. butter or margarine
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper (cayenne)
2 eggs

PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Bring water and salt to boil in medium saucepan on medium-high heat. Gradually add grits, stirring constantly until well blended. Reduce heat to low. Cook 5 min., stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.

ADD 1/2 cup of the Cheddar cheese, the VELVEETA, butter, garlic powder and red pepper; stir until cheese and VELVEETA are completely melted. Set aside. Beat eggs lightly in small bowl. Add small amount of hot grits mixture to eggs; mix well. Gradually add egg mixture to remaining hot grits mixture, stirring constantly until well blended. Pour into greased 8-inch square baking dish.

BAKE 30 min; sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese. Bake an additional 10 min. Let stand 10 min. before serving.


**Weekly Tip: …And speaking of Southern, the secret ingredients to most any flavorful dish are butter and/or sugar. Two items to ALWAYS have on hand in your kitchen!