Introduction
In this delicious recipe, creamy stone-ground grits are elevated to a new level with the addition of cheeses and eggs, making for a hearty and satisfying dish. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner, this baked grits recipe is sure to please a crowd. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create this mouthwatering meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter
2 ounces cream cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 large eggs
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnishes: cooked and crumbled bacon, diced jalapeño, chopped green onions
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Directions
1. **Prepare the Grits:**
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
2. **Incorporate Cheeses and Butter:**
Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter, cream cheese, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Assemble and Bake:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the creamy grits into a lightly greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet, spreading them evenly. Using the back of a spoon, create four shallow wells in the grits. Carefully crack one egg into each well. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. **Bake:**
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks reach your desired doneness.
5. **Garnish and Serve:**
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with optional toppings like crumbled bacon, diced jalapeño, and chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
Incorporate Cheeses and Butter:
Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter, cream cheese, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the creamy grits into a lightly greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet, spreading them evenly. Using the back of a spoon, create four shallow wells in the grits. Carefully crack one egg into each well. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks reach your desired doneness.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with optional toppings like crumbled bacon, diced jalapeño, and chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Cooking Time Variation:
The cooking time for grits may vary slightly depending on your stove and the specific brand of grits used. Always check for tenderness.
Egg Doneness:
If you prefer runny yolks, check the eggs around the 12-minute mark. Adjust baking time according to your preference.
Cheese Options:
Feel free to experiment with other cheese types, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or a milder cheese for a different flavor profile.
Enhanced Flavor:
For a richer flavor, sauté some garlic or onions in the butter before incorporating them into the grits.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or brunch item.
Cook techniques
Boiling and Whisking
Incorporating grits into boiling chicken broth requires a steady hand. Gradually whisk the grits into the broth to ensure there are no lumps, which helps in achieving smooth-textured grits.
Simmering
After adding the grits, reduce the heat and cover the saucepan. Simmering allows the grits to absorb the broth and cook evenly, resulting in a creamy consistency.
Mixing Dairy
When the grits are cooked, adding butter, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese while mixing ensures a rich and creamy flavor profile. It’s essential to mix until fully melted for an even texture.
Baking with Wells
Creating shallow wells in the grits before adding eggs helps to keep the eggs intact while baking. It also ensures that the eggs cook evenly without overcooking.
Garnishing
Finishing the dish with optional garnishes such as bacon, jalapeño, and green onions adds flavor and texture, allowing for customization based on personal preferences.
FAQ
What type of grits should I use?
Stone-ground grits are recommended for their texture and flavor, offering a more traditional Southern taste compared to instant grits.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with water, but the dish may lack the rich flavor that chicken broth provides.
How do I know when the eggs are done baking?
Keep an eye on the egg whites; they should be set while the yolks can remain runny or cooked through according to your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The grits can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and add the eggs for baking.
What can I use as alternatives for garnishes?
You can use ingredients like diced tomatoes, avocado, or fresh herbs as alternatives to the suggested garnishes for added flavor.
Conclusion
The creamy baked grits with eggs offer a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The combination of cheesy grits and the richness of baked eggs creates a satisfying meal that can be customized with various toppings. Whether enjoyed as is or with added garnishes, this recipe highlights the versatility of grits, making them a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Incorporate cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage into the grits mixture for a hearty and savory flavor combination.
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