Creamy Brunch Grits (Print Version)

Smooth stone-ground grits cooked with cream and cheddar, perfect as a cozy brunch accompaniment.

# Recipe Ingredients:

→ Grits Base

01 - 1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant)
02 - 4 cups whole milk
03 - 1 cup water
04 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Creamy Enrichment

05 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Cheese

07 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Optional Garnish

08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - In a medium saucepan, warm milk, water, and kosher salt over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer.
02 - Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, stirring constantly to avoid lump formation.
03 - Lower the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the grits thicken and become tender, approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Add additional water if necessary to maintain a creamy texture.
04 - Stir in heavy cream and unsalted butter until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.
05 - Remove from heat and fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is completely melted.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Stone-ground grits cook into something almost luxurious without demanding hours of your time or complicated technique.
  • Once you taste real creamy grits, the instant packets become impossible to go back to—and this version proves it's worth the small effort.
02 -
  • Lumpy grits happen when you dump them in too fast or don't whisk hard enough—slow and steady whisking at the beginning saves you from gritty texture later.
  • The mixture will keep thickening as it cools, so aim for it to be slightly looser than you think it should be while still hot.
03 -
  • Make grits ahead of time and reheat them gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture without any separation.
  • A pinch of smoked paprika or a small shake of hot sauce stirred in at the end adds depth without changing the essential comfort of the dish.

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