Introduction
Pimento cheese grits topped with eggs and bacon bring a delightful Southern twist to a classic breakfast dish. The creamy texture of grits combined with the sharpness of pimento cheese creates a comforting and flavorful experience. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for brunch or a hearty breakfast any day of the week.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pimento Cheese:
– 12 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
– 1 (4-ounce) jar of pimentos, drained
– 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Grits:
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
– 1 cup quick-cooking grits
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese (from above)
For Serving:
– 4 eggs, cooked to your liking (poached, fried, etc.)
– 6 slices cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– Additional pimento cheese for topping
– Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
– Hot sauce (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Directions
1. Prepare the Pimento Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese, drained pimentos, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring the low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock to a boil over medium-high heat. Slowly whisk in the quick-cooking grits, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thickened and tender. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup of the prepared pimento cheese until fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
3. Assemble the Dish: Divide the pimento cheese grits among serving bowls. Top each serving with a cooked egg and slices of cooked bacon. Add a dollop of additional pimento cheese on top. Sprinkle with sliced green onions. If desired, garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of hot sauce.
4. Serve: Serve immediately while warm.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Pimento Cheese
In a large bowl, combine the freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese, drained pimentos, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Cook the Grits
In a medium saucepan, bring the low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock to a boil over medium-high heat. Slowly whisk in the quick-cooking grits, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thickened and tender. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup of the prepared pimento cheese until fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
Assemble the Dish
Divide the pimento cheese grits among serving bowls. Top each serving with a cooked egg and slices of cooked bacon. Add a dollop of additional pimento cheese on top. Sprinkle with sliced green onions. If desired, garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of hot sauce.
Serve
Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Cheese Selection
Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Grits Cooking Time
Ensure the grits are cooked to your desired consistency; you can add more stock if they are too thick.
Egg Preparation
Choose your preferred method for cooking eggs to personalize the dish.
Bacon Alternatives
Turkey bacon or sausage can be used as a substitute for traditional bacon if desired.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste preference.
Cook techniques
Preparing Pimento Cheese
Incorporate the grated cheddar cheese, drained pimentos, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined for a smooth and creamy texture.
Cooking Grits
Bring low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the quick-cooking grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until grits are thick and tender. Blend in pimento cheese for added creaminess.
Assembling the Dish
Divide the prepared pimento cheese grits into serving bowls. Top with a cooked egg and slices of bacon. Garnish with additional pimento cheese, sliced green onions, and optional cherry tomatoes or hot sauce.
Serving
Serve the dish immediately while warm to ensure the best taste and texture.
FAQ
What types of cheese can I use for pimento cheese?
While sharp white cheddar is used in this recipe, you could also try other cheeses like mild cheddar, pepper jack, or even gouda for different flavors.
Can I use regular grits instead of quick-cooking grits?
Yes, you can use regular grits, but the cooking time will increase significantly. Make sure to follow the package instructions for proper cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add more hot sauce or include diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers in the pimento cheese mixture for extra heat.
What can I serve as a vegetarian option instead of bacon?
You could substitute bacon with crispy tempeh, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables to maintain flavor and texture.
Can I prepare the pimento cheese in advance?
Yes, pimento cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It usually tastes even better after the flavors meld together for a few hours or overnight.
Conclusion
This dish of pimento cheese grits topped with an egg and crispy bacon is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. The creamy pimento cheese elevates the simple grits, while the crispy bacon and fresh green onions add a delightful crunch. Serve this dish warm for a hearty breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a indulgent treat.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Stuff mini bell peppers with the pimento cheese mixture for a colorful and flavorful appetizer.
Pimento Cheese Quesadillas
Spread pimento cheese between tortillas, add some cooked chicken or vegetables, then grill until crispy for a delicious twist on a classic quesadilla.
Cheesy Pimento Grits Bakes
Mix cooked pimento cheese grits with beaten eggs and bake them in a casserole dish for a cheesy breakfast bake.
Pimento Cheese Dip with Veggies
Serve the pimento cheese as a dip with fresh vegetables and crackers for a fulfilling snack.
Pimento Cheese and Bacon Biscuits
Incorporate pimento cheese and bits of crispy bacon into biscuit dough for a savory twist on traditional biscuits.
Breakfast Tacos
Fill soft tortillas with pimento cheese, scrambled eggs, avocado, and salsa for a delicious breakfast taco creation.
Pimento Cheese Burgers
Top juicy grilled burgers with a generous portion of pimento cheese instead of regular cheese for an exciting flavor upgrade.
