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Cozy Southern-Style Family Cheese Grits
My mom whipped up these fantastic cheese grits for us my whole life. They've been passed down through our family, and wow, they're something special. The combo of butter, thick cream, and tons of cheese makes this Southern dish pure comfort food. I make these whenever we host brunch or just need something warm and tasty. Trust me, once you try these, you'll get why everyone in our family raves about them.
What Makes These Grits So Special
You'll fall in love with this family favorite because:
- Thick cream creates that velvety mouthfeel
- Generous cheese amount brings fantastic taste
- They're an authentic down-home tradition
- They fit perfectly at breakfast, lunch or dinner
Simple Pantry Staples You'll Need
- Grits: Standard dry ones work perfectly for texture.
- Butter: We don't hold back—a whole stick goes in.
- Cheese: Mom always picked sharp cheddar for big flavor.
- Heavy Cream: This creates that dreamy smoothness.
- Salt: Just enough to boost all the other flavors.
- Water: Teams up with cream for the right cooking base.
Quick Cooking Method
- Get Your Base Ready
- Mix your water and cream in a big, sturdy pot. Heat it up until you notice tiny bubbles forming around the edges. Take your time here—getting the right temp means your grits will cook evenly and soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Add Grits The Right Way
- Pour your grits in gradually while you keep whisking. This stops lumps and makes sure each bit gets wet. Turn the heat down low and stir often for about 20-25 minutes. You'll see them change from gritty to smooth. They're done when your whisk leaves little trails behind.
- Mix In The Good Stuff
- When your grits feel thick and smooth, it's time for the magic. Drop in butter chunks one at a time, letting each piece melt away before adding another. Then slowly mix in your cheese bit by bit, stirring until everything melts together. Going slow here gives you that amazing velvety feel we want.
- Finish It Off
- Give it a taste and add salt if needed. Go slow with the salt—you can always add more but can't take it out! Serve them right away while they're hot and creamy. For an extra treat, pop a small butter chunk on top and watch it melt into golden puddles.
Tricks For Perfect Results
- Don't Skimp On Cream: It's what makes these grits stand out.
- Stir Constantly: The key to avoiding lumps and bumps.
- Pick Quality Cheese: The sharper the cheddar, the tastier they'll be.
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Great Pairing Options
These family-favorite grits taste wonderful with:
- Holiday morning breakfast spreads
- Regular evening meals
- Simple oven-roasted vegetables
From Our Family Table To Yours
This beloved dish isn't just food—it's part of who we are. Every creamy bite brings back memories of family gatherings and holiday mornings together. Whether you're cooking them for a big celebration or just a normal day, they'll likely become a treasured tradition in your home too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why is constant stirring important for grits?
Keeps lumps away, leaving them smooth and creamy.
- → What kind of grits are best?
Pick old-fashioned grits—they’re the smoothest. Skip instant ones.
- → Can I swap cheeses?
Sharp cheddar tastes great, but any melty cheese will work fine.
- → Is this make-ahead friendly?
It’s best served fresh! But you can keep it warm in the oven for a bit.
- → What’s the deal with hot sauce?
It’s not about spice—it boosts the flavors nicely.