It’s funny how some of the simplest dishes can become absolute staples in your household. Cheesy grits with a fried egg? Sounds basic, right? But let me tell you, this humble combination has become a weekend morning ritual in our home, and for good reason. There’s something undeniably comforting about the creamy, cheesy grits topped with a perfectly fried egg, its yolk just waiting to burst and mingle with the savory base. Even my pickiest eater, my seven-year-old, devours a bowl without complaint, and my husband, who considers himself a breakfast connoisseur, often requests it over pancakes or waffles. It’s the kind of meal that’s both satisfying and quick to throw together, perfect for those mornings when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Honestly, if you’re looking for a dish that’s versatile, budget-friendly, and utterly delicious, look no further. Cheesy grits with a fried egg is a winner, plain and simple.

Ingredients

• Grits: 1 cup of stone-ground or quick-cooking grits. Grits are the star of the show, providing a creamy and comforting base. Stone-ground grits offer a more robust texture and flavor, while quick-cooking grits are faster and smoother.
• Water or Milk: 4 cups of water or milk, or a combination of both. Liquid is essential for cooking the grits. Milk will create a richer and creamier result, while water keeps it lighter. You can also use broth for added savory depth.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt, plus more to taste. Salt is crucial for seasoning the grits and bringing out their flavor.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Butter adds richness and flavor to the grits, making them even more decadent.
• Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheese. Cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend work wonderfully. Cheese is what transforms simple grits into cheesy grits, adding flavor and a melty, gooey texture.
• Eggs: 4 large eggs. Eggs provide protein and a rich, runny yolk that complements the creamy grits.
• Olive Oil or Butter for Frying Eggs: 1 tablespoon. Used to fry the eggs to perfection, ensuring crispy edges and a runny yolk.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pepper adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor.
• Optional Garnishes: Chopped chives, green onions, hot sauce, bacon bits, or fresh herbs for extra flavor and visual appeal. Garnishes elevate the dish and allow for personalization.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk (or combination) and salt to a boil over medium-high heat. Using the right liquid and bringing it to a boil first is key for proper grit cooking and texture. This ensures the grits cook evenly and absorb the liquid correctly, preventing lumps.
2. Whisk in Grits: Gradually whisk in the grits in a slow and steady stream, ensuring no clumps form. Whisking while adding prevents the grits from clumping together as they hit the hot liquid. This step is crucial for achieving smooth, creamy grits.
3. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for the time specified on the grits package, usually about 20-30 minutes for stone-ground grits or 5-7 minutes for quick-cooking grits, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the grits to cook through gently and absorb the liquid fully. Stirring prevents sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking. Pay attention to the package instructions as cooking times can vary significantly depending on the type of grits used.
4. Stir in Butter and Cheese: Once the grits are cooked and creamy, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter until melted and then add the shredded cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the grits are smooth and cheesy. Adding butter and cheese off the heat prevents the cheese from becoming stringy or oily. Stirring until fully melted ensures a homogenous and creamy cheese sauce throughout the grits.
5. Fry the Eggs: While the grits are cooking, or just before serving, heat olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Using a non-stick skillet is vital for easy egg frying and preventing sticking. Medium heat ensures the eggs cook through without burning quickly.
6. Fry Eggs to Desired Doneness: Carefully crack the eggs into the hot skillet. Cook for 2-4 minutes for runny yolks, or longer if you prefer firmer yolks. You can baste the eggs with hot oil or butter from the pan to cook the tops slightly if desired, achieving a more evenly cooked egg. For sunny-side up, don’t flip. For over-easy, over-medium, or over-hard, flip the eggs gently and cook for an additional minute or two, depending on your preference.
7. Season Eggs: Season the fried eggs with salt and pepper to taste while they are cooking in the skillet. Seasoning at this stage ensures the eggs are flavorful and complements the grits.
8. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls. Top each bowl with a fried egg. Garnish with optional toppings like chopped chives, green onions, hot sauce, or bacon bits, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! Serving immediately ensures the grits are hot and creamy and the egg yolk is runny and delicious. Garnishes add flavor complexity and visual appeal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate, based on 4 servings)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350-450 kcal (This can vary based on cheese type and amount, and egg size)
• Protein: 15-20g

Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes (Gathering ingredients and measuring)
• Cook Time: 25-35 minutes (Depending on the type of grits used, primarily for simmering grits and frying eggs)
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes (From start to finish, including preparation and cooking)

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, especially if using quick-cooking grits. The majority of the time is spent simmering the grits to achieve the desired creamy texture. Frying the eggs is a fast process that can be done while the grits are finishing up or just before serving.

How to Serve

Cheesy grits with a fried egg is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Breakfast/Brunch Staple: This is the most classic way to enjoy this dish. It’s a hearty and satisfying way to start the day, providing sustained energy and comfort. Pair it with a side of fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Comforting Lunch: Cheesy grits with a fried egg makes a surprisingly satisfying lunch. It’s warm, flavorful, and easy to prepare, perfect for a midday pick-me-up. Add a side of greens for a lighter lunch option.
• Simple Weeknight Dinner: Don’t underestimate this dish for dinner! It’s quick, budget-friendly, and requires minimal ingredients. Enhance it with some sautéed vegetables or a side of protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial dinner.
• Southern-Inspired Side Dish: Serve cheesy grits with a fried egg as a unique and flavorful side dish alongside Southern classics like BBQ ribs, pulled pork, or fried chicken. The creamy grits complement rich and savory main courses beautifully.
• Elevated Brunch Dish: Impress your brunch guests by elevating this simple dish. Garnish it with gourmet toppings like truffle oil, shaved Parmesan, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions for a sophisticated touch.
• Customize with Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar and let everyone customize their own bowl! Offer a variety of cheeses, toppings like bacon bits, chives, hot sauce, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted tomatoes, allowing for personalized flavor combinations.
• Serve with a Side of Greens: Balance the richness of the cheesy grits with a fresh and vibrant side salad or sautéed greens. The lightness of the greens cuts through the creaminess and adds nutritional value.
• Pair with a Protein: For a more complete and protein-packed meal, serve cheesy grits with a fried egg alongside grilled sausage, crispy bacon, ham, or even vegetarian options like black beans or chickpeas.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cheesy Grits with Fried Egg

1. Choose the Right Grits: Experiment with different types of grits to find your preference. Stone-ground grits offer a coarser texture and nuttier flavor, while quick-cooking grits are smoother and cook faster. For the most authentic Southern flavor and texture, stone-ground grits are often preferred, but quick-cooking grits are a convenient option for busy mornings.
2. Use Quality Cheese: The cheese is crucial for flavor. Opt for good quality cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. Pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has better flavor. Sharp cheddar provides a classic cheesy flavor, while Gruyere adds a nutty and complex note.
3. Don’t Skimp on Butter: Butter adds richness and creaminess to the grits. Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can also use browned butter for an even deeper, nutty flavor.
4. Season Generously: Season the grits with salt throughout the cooking process, not just at the end. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Seasoning in layers enhances the overall flavor profile. Pepper is also essential, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick.
5. Master the Fried Egg: Practice frying eggs to your desired doneness. Low and slow is key for runny yolks and tender whites. Use a non-stick skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan. Basting with hot butter or oil helps cook the top of the egg evenly.
6. Keep Grits Warm: Grits tend to thicken as they cool. If you’re not serving immediately, keep the grits warm in a double boiler or a very low oven (around 200°F/95°C) with a splash of milk or water to maintain their creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even temperature.
7. Customize with Flavors: Get creative with flavor additions! Stir in roasted garlic, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or jalapenos into the grits for extra depth of flavor. Consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for an aromatic twist.
8. Reheat Grits Properly: Leftover cheesy grits can be reheated, but they may thicken considerably. Add a little milk or water and gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently until creamy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery. Reheating slowly on the stovetop with added liquid is the best method to restore their creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cheesy Grits with Fried Egg

Q1: Can I use quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground grits?

A: Yes, absolutely! Quick-cooking grits are a great time-saver and will still result in delicious cheesy grits. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package as cooking times will be significantly shorter. The texture will be smoother compared to stone-ground grits.

Q2: What kind of cheese is best for cheesy grits?

A: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for cheesy grits, offering a sharp and familiar flavor. However, you can experiment with various cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Consider your personal preference and the desired flavor intensity when choosing cheese.

Q3: How do I prevent lumps in my grits?

A: The key to lump-free grits is to gradually whisk the grits into boiling liquid and continuously whisk while they are initially cooking. Reducing the heat to low and stirring occasionally during simmering will also help prevent lumps from forming. Adding the grits slowly and whisking vigorously disperses them evenly in the liquid.

Q4: Can I make cheesy grits ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the cheesy grits ahead of time. They will thicken as they cool, so you’ll need to add a little milk or water when reheating to restore their creamy consistency. Store leftover grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q5: What’s the best way to fry an egg for this dish?

A: For cheesy grits with a fried egg, a sunny-side up or over-easy egg is ideal, allowing the runny yolk to mix with the creamy grits. Fry the egg in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until the whites are set and the yolk is still runny. You can baste the egg with hot butter for a more evenly cooked top.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to cheesy grits?

A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of cheesy grits. Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, onions, roasted red peppers, or even corn are delicious additions. Stir them into the grits after they are cooked and cheesy.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, grits are naturally gluten-free as they are made from corn. Ensure that any cheese or toppings you use are also gluten-free to keep the entire dish gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels if you have gluten sensitivities or allergies.

Q8: Can I make cheesy grits without cheese?

A: While cheese is a key component of cheesy grits, you can still make delicious creamy grits without it. To achieve a similar richness and flavor, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor, or add a touch of cream cheese or mascarpone for creaminess. You can also enhance the flavor with herbs, spices, and vegetable broths.