Get ready to ignite your taste buds with a Southern classic that packs a spicy punch! Our Serrano Grits with Cheese recipe transforms the humble comfort food into a fiery, cheesy delight that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds. If you're craving a dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a thrilling kick of heat, you've just discovered your new culinary obsession. This isn't just another side dish—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Grits
- Serrano peppers
- Cheddar cheese
- Butter
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Finely dice the Serrano peppers, removing seeds for less heat if desired. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for about 12-15 minutes until grits become thick and creamy.
- While grits are cooking, prepare the Serrano peppers and grate the cheddar cheese.
- Once grits reach a smooth consistency, remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
- Fold in the diced Serrano peppers, allowing their heat to infuse into the grits.
- Gradually mix in the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and incorporated.
- Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with extra cheese or chopped Serrano peppers if desired.
Tips
- • For control over the heat level, remove the Serrano pepper seeds before dicing. The more seeds you leave in, the spicier the dish will be. • Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and authentic flavor—instant grits won't deliver the same creamy consistency. • Continuously whisk the grits while cooking to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture. • Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for better melting and more robust flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese. • Serve immediately after preparing to enjoy the grits at their creamiest and most luxurious state. • For extra visual appeal and flavor, garnish with additional cheese or finely chopped Serrano peppers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
