Mamie's Cheesy Grits

Mamie's Cheesy Grits Recipe - Authentic Southern Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Mamie's Cheesy Grits is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner. This recipe combines creamy grits with melted cheese and a hint of spice for a flavorful and satisfying dish.

History

This recipe for Mamie's Cheesy Grits has been passed down through generations in the South. It is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many for its creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of quick-cooking grits
6 cups of water
1 tbsp of salt
1 tsp of hot sauce
0.5 cups of butter
2 cups of processed cheese
4 beaten eggs
4 medium green bell peppers, halved

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, combine grits, water, salt, and hot sauce.
Cook until the mixture thickens. Then, add butter and cheese.
Mix well to ensure everything is blended properly. In a small bowl, combine a small amount of the grits mixture with the eggs.
Next, add the remaining grits and stir until the mixture becomes smooth.
Spoon the mixture into bell pepper halves, place them in a medium-sized casserole dish, and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or sausage to the grits mixture for added flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.
Add diced jalapenos or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the grits until they are thick and creamy before adding the cheese and butter.

- Mixing a small amount of the grits mixture with the eggs before adding them to the rest of the mixture helps to prevent the eggs from scrambling.

- Baking the stuffed bell peppers in a casserole dish helps to keep them upright and ensures even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Mamie's Cheesy Grits can be served as a side dish with fried chicken, grilled shrimp, or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the grits slowly and stir frequently to prevent lumps from forming.

- Baking the stuffed bell peppers helps to meld the flavors together and create a delicious crust on top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Instant grits can be used instead of quick-cooking grits.

- Any type of cheese can be used in place of processed cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

Mamie's Cheesy Grits can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and bake when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mamie's Cheesy Grits in the bell pepper halves for a beautiful and unique presentation. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Mamie's Cheesy Grits pairs well with a crisp green salad, cornbread, or a side of fresh fruit.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Mamie's Cheesy Grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mamie's Cheesy Grits contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mamie's Cheesy Grits contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mamie's Cheesy Grits contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mamie's Cheesy Grits contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mamie's Cheesy Grits is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and butter) and eggs.

Summary

Mamie's Cheesy Grits is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in fat and calories, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mamie's Cheesy Grits is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any meal. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and hint of spice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Mamie's Cheesy Grits. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mamie's house for our weekly bridge game. Mamie was known for her delicious southern cooking, and that day was no exception. As we sat down to our game, the aroma of her cheesy grits filled the room, making my mouth water.

I asked Mamie for the recipe, and she smiled and said, "Oh honey, it's a family secret. But I'll teach you how to make it." And so, Mamie took me under her wing and showed me the steps to making her famous cheesy grits. It was a simple recipe, but the secret was in the love and care she put into every batch.

Mamie learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who passed it down through the generations. She told me stories of how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, perfecting her cheesy grits recipe until it was just right. Mamie learned by watching and helping her grandmother in the kitchen, absorbing every detail and technique.

As she taught me how to make the cheesy grits, Mamie shared her family stories and memories with me. She spoke of family gatherings and holiday meals where the cheesy grits were always the star of the show. She told me about the special occasions when her grandmother would make a big batch of cheesy grits and everyone would gather around the table, eager to dig in.

I listened intently as Mamie shared her memories, feeling a deep connection to her and her family history. I could see the love and pride she had for her family and their traditions, and I knew that I wanted to carry on the legacy of Mamie's cheesy grits in my own home.

After that day, I made Mamie's cheesy grits for my own family and friends, sharing the recipe and stories that Mamie had passed down to me. Every time I made the cheesy grits, I felt a sense of connection to Mamie and her family, as if they were right there with me in the kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Mamie's cheesy grits for countless gatherings and special occasions. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and think of Mamie and her grandmother, grateful for the gift of their delicious cheesy grits recipe.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that day at Mamie's house and the special bond we shared over her cheesy grits, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and traditions that have been passed down to me. I will always cherish the time I spent with Mamie in her kitchen, learning the art of making her beloved cheesy grits. And I will continue to share this recipe and the stories behind it with all who are willing to listen, keeping Mamie's legacy alive for generations to come.