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There’s something undeniably warm and inviting about the combination of creamy grits and the sweetness of fresh corn. Growing up in the South, I was fortunate enough to experience the culinary magic of family gatherings where my grandmother would whip up her famous baked grits. The aroma of melted cheese and buttery goodness wafting through the air was enough to make anyone’s mouth water, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and love. This dish wasn't merely a recipe; it was a cherished tradition that embodied comfort and togetherness.

Sweet Corn and Cheddar Baked Grits

Experience the heartwarming comfort of Cheesy Sweet Corn Baked Grits Delight, a beloved Southern classic. This recipe combines creamy stone-ground grits, fresh sweet corn, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for a rich, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it's sure to become a go-to comfort food that evokes joyful memories and brings everyone together around the table.

Ingredients
  

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup whole milk

1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels (substitute with frozen if needed)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus a little extra for topping

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon butter

1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)

Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or cilantro)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a rolling boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits while reducing the heat to low. Continuously stir for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

      Mix in Milk and Seasoning: Remove the saucepan from the heat source. Stir in the whole milk, fresh sweet corn, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, optional cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for a unified flavor.

        Add the Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until incorporated. Reserve a small amount of sharp cheddar for garnishing later.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the creamy grits mixture into a greased 9x13 inch (or equivalent size) baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

            Garnish with Cheese and Green Onions: Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top of the grits mixture. For added flavor and a pop of color, evenly scatter the chopped green onions over the top.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs. Serve warm and delight in the creamy, cheesy goodness of your sweet corn baked grits!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings