Are you ready to experience the most decadent, mouthwatering side dish that will transform your meal from ordinary to extraordinary? These Easy Creamy and Cheesy Grits are not just a recipe – they're a Southern culinary experience that will transport you straight to comfort food heaven! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you'll create a luxuriously smooth, cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring the 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium-sized saucepan over high heat, adding a pinch of salt to enhance the water's flavor.
- Slowly whisk in the 1 cup of grits, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir.
- Cover the saucepan and let the grits simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for approximately 15-18 minutes until the grits become thick and creamy.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the 1/4 cup of butter, stirring until completely melted and incorporated.
- Pour in the 1/2 cup of milk and stir to create a smoother, creamier texture.
- Gradually fold in the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the grits.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Let the grits rest for 2-3 minutes to further thicken and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese or chopped green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality grits for the best texture and flavor. Stone-ground grits are ideal for a more authentic taste.
- Whisk continuously when adding grits to boiling water to prevent lumps from forming. Smooth grits are the secret to a creamy result.
- Low and slow is the key to cooking grits – maintain a gentle simmer and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- For extra richness, try mixing different types of cheese like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or even a touch of parmesan.
- Don't rush the resting time after cooking. Those extra 2-3 minutes help the grits set and develop a more intense flavor.
- If your grits become too thick, simply stir in a little extra milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
- For a gourmet twist, consider adding crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a dash of hot sauce on top before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 50mg
