Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that transforms the humble Southern staple into a gourmet sensation! Imagine creamy, cheesy grits with a crispy, golden-brown exterior that delivers an explosion of flavor in every single bite. This Grilled Grits Americana isn't just a recipe - it's a culinary adventure that bridges traditional comfort food with modern grilling techniques, creating a dish that will have your taste buds dancing and your dinner guests begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for grilling
Instructions
- Begin by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the grits.
- Once the water is boiling, slowly whisk in 1 cup of grits to prevent clumping. Continue to whisk until the grits are fully incorporated into the water.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the grits cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The grits should become thick and creamy.
- After the grits have cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, 1/2 cup of cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the mixture is well blended, pour the cheesy grits into a greased baking dish or a flat pan to cool. Allow the grits to set for about 10-15 minutes until they firm up slightly.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the grill grates with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the grits have cooled and set, cut them into squares or rectangles. Carefully place the grit squares on the preheated grill.
- Grill the grit squares for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have nice grill marks. Flip them gently using a spatula to avoid breaking.
- Once grilled, remove the grits from the grill and serve immediately. You can garnish with additional cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
- Enjoy your Grilled Grits Americana as a delightful fusion dish, perfect as a side or a main course!
Tips
- Use stone-ground grits for the most authentic and rich flavor profile.
- Let your grits cool completely before grilling to ensure they hold their shape.
- Make sure your grill or grill pan is preheated and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a smoked cheese mix.
- If you don't have a grill, a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet works wonderfully for getting those perfect crispy edges.
- Serve immediately after grilling to enjoy the contrast between the crispy exterior and creamy interior.
- Don't be afraid to get creative with garnishes - try crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
