Creamy Cheese Grits: A Comfort Food Classic
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of creamy, cheesy grits. This dish combines the simple, rustic charm of Southern cooking with rich, satisfying flavors that are perfect for a comforting breakfast or a side dish at dinner. Whether you’re new to grits or a seasoned connoisseur, this recipe promises a velvety texture and irresistible taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup quick grits
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Liquid Base: In a medium-sized pot, combine the water, half and half, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring that the salt dissolves completely.
- Whisk in the Grits: Gradually whisk in the quick grits as the liquid returns to a boil. This gradual addition prevents any clumps from forming and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the grits simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will prevent the grits from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensure even cooking.
- Add the Cheeses and Butter: Once the grits are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses along with the butter. Mix until everything is beautifully combined and the grits are creamy and smooth.
- Season: Finish by seasoning with pepper to taste. If needed, add a little more salt. It’s crucial to taste and adjust the seasoning after adding the cheeses as they contribute additional saltiness.
- Serve: Serve the grits warm. Remember, they will thicken as they cool, so if you prefer a runnier consistency, you might want to enjoy them immediately.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Conclusion
Creamy cheese grits are more than just a dish; they are a testament to the comforting power of Southern cooking. Perfect for any meal of the day, these grits are sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Serve them alongside your favorite breakfast proteins or as a hearty side with dinner. Enjoy the taste of comfort, one spoonful at a time!
Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast or looking for the perfect side to accompany your main course, this recipe for creamy cheese grits promises to deliver both comfort and flavor.
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Creamy Cheese Grits
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Creamy Cheese Grits embody the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. Each spoonful offers a warm embrace of creamy, cheesy goodness, with a delightful contrast of sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan melding seamlessly into the soft, comforting grits. This dish is not only a breakfast staple but also serves as a versatile side that complements a wide array of main courses, from shrimp to fried chicken.
The simplicity of the recipe belies the profound comfort it delivers. Perfect for busy mornings or a lazy weekend brunch, these grits transform basic ingredients into a sumptuous feast. Enhance them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce for a personalized touch that elevates this classic dish from simple to spectacular.
Ingredients
2 cups water
1 cup half and half
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup quick grits
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, room temperature
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a medium-sized pot, bring water, half and half, and salt to a boil.
Gradually whisk in the grits to prevent clumping as the liquid begins to boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, butter, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
Serve warm; the grits will thicken as they cool.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal