Preheat your oven to 350°F. This will ensure a consistent temperature for baking the grits. A well-preheated oven is essential for even cooking.
Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan. Make sure to keep an eye on it as it heats up. Once it starts bubbling, you can add the grits and salt.
Reduce the heat to a simmer. This is where the magic happens. Cover the pot and let the grits cook for about 5 minutes. You want to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once thickened, remove the grits from the heat. It should be creamy and luscious. Add in the butter, garlic cheese, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Stir well until everything is melted and combined.
In a separate bowl, mix the eggs and milk. This combination adds richness. Once mixed, add it to the grits mixture, stirring briskly until fully combined.
Pour the mixture into a buttered 11 x 7 inch casserole dish. Make sure the dish is coated evenly to prevent sticking. The cheese will help create a delicious crust.
Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. This will create a golden, bubbly topping that is irresistible.
Bake for 1 hour. During this time, the Cheese Grits will become golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-baking.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps it set, making serving a breeze.
Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!