Sharp cheddar cheese is often used in cheesy bean stews.
Cheesy Bean Casserole is a traditional Southern dish that often shows up at family meals, potlucks, and restaurants. The main ingredients are cheese and cereal, a ground corn food somewhat similar to oatmeal or cream of wheat. Various seasonings and additional ingredients can be added to vary the flavor and texture. Unlike traditional beans, which are usually cooked on the stovetop, a cheesy bean casserole is usually baked in the oven and served in a casserole dish.
A grain cheese casserole recipe might call for pepper.
The basic ingredient in a grain cheese casserole is, of course, the grains. The origin of this food is believed to be from Native Americans, although other native peoples around the world have a history of similar dishes. Kernels are usually made by grinding white or yellow corn to produce white or yellow kernels. The food is sometimes made with corn and is later called “hoppy grits”. The beans are commercially available in instant or traditional form.
The cheesy bean casserole is sometimes made with hominy beans.
Each variety of beans offers a slightly different flavor. A cheesy bean casserole can use any variety, although many cooks find instant beans unacceptable for casseroles. Recipes may call for a combination of white, yellow, and corn grits to deepen the flavor palette and vary the texture of the dish.
The beans are usually cooked on the stovetop before being placed in the saucepan. They need significant amounts of liquid to cook properly. A cook can choose a traditional water base or use broth or other creative liquid options to add flavor.
The cheese selection also varies significantly from plate to plate. White and yellow cheddar cheese are probably the most commonly used. However, recipes can call for just about any relatively hard cheese, from pepper jack to colby to American. Some cooks prefer to use a combination of cheese varieties and may vary the cheese depending on what other additives they plan to use. Very soft or crumbly cheeses are often used sparingly and in combination with other cheeses.
Eggs, salt, pepper, butter, and milk also appear in many grain cheese casserole recipes. Cooks can add jalapeños or other hot peppers, and bacon and sausage are also popular. Common additional condiments include garlic, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. This casserole can be served alone or with shrimp, chicken, vegetables, pork, or beef.
The beans themselves are traditionally a breakfast food, and a cheesy bean casserole could also be served at this meal. However, these casseroles are commonly served with dinner and also at buffet-style meals. It’s not uncommon to see a cheese bean casserole at a southern-style buffet event.