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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming satisfaction of a Smoky Gouda & Bacon Grits Bake. This recipe is a delightful fusion of creamy, stone-ground grits, rich smoked Gouda cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a dish that is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether served as a hearty breakfast to start your day or as a savory side dish at a dinner gathering, this grits bake promises to impress and satisfy. With its inviting aroma and creamy texture, it's a dish that embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality.

Smoky Gouda & Bacon Grits Bake

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Smoky Gouda & Bacon Grits Bake, a comfort food classic that brings Southern hospitality to your table. This delightful recipe combines stone-ground grits with rich smoked Gouda and crispy bacon, creating a dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory side. With its luxurious texture and appealing flavors, this bake is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. Discover the heartwarming tradition of grits and elevate your cooking with this deliciously satisfying dish.

Ingredients
  

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup heavy cream

4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Grits: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Gradually stir in the grits. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.

    Prepare the Bacon: While the grits are cooking, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, reserving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the grits are cooked, remove them from heat and stir in the smoked Gouda, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, sautéed onions, garlic, cooked bacon, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.

          Bake the Grits: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the grits mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

            Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the grits bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley before serving.

              Enjoy this decadent Smoky Gouda & Bacon Grits Bake as a comforting breakfast or a side dish at dinner, and bring a taste of Southern comfort to your table!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8