Tomato Grits

This recipe is from my mom. These grits have become a Christmas morning family tradition along with our omelets or breakfast casserole. They are yummy!

Ingredients
1 1/2 cup whole milk (or any milk you have)
2 1/2 cups water
1 cup quick grits
1 tsp salt
1 stick butter plus 1 tbsp
1/3 cup scallions - chopped
1/4 tsp garlic powder
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can Rotel tomatoes

Bring water and milk to a boil, add salt & grits - return to boil stir 1 minute. Reduce heat, cover and cook 3 minutes, add stick of butter, stir, cover and cook 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat, set aside. Melt remaining butter (1 tbsp) in skillet add scallions, saute 1 minute. Add to grits along with garlic powder & cheese (1 1/2 cups) Stir. Add tomatoes, mix well - Pour into baking dish and bake 35-40 minutes 350 degrees. Sprinkle remaining cheese (1/2 cup) on top last 5 minutes of cooking.

(Can use fresh garlic instead of powder, just saute it with the scallions)