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Cheesy Grits with Fried Egg Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 115 reviews

This comforting recipe features creamy, cheesy grits topped with perfectly fried eggs. Stone-ground or quick-cooking grits are simmered to a smooth texture and enriched with butter and melty shredded cheese. Each bowl is crowned with a golden fried egg cooked to your preference, seasoned with salt and pepper. Optional garnishes like chopped chives, green onions, hot sauce, or bacon bits add extra flavor and a personalized touch. Ideal for a hearty breakfast or brunch, this dish combines creamy and savory flavors with a satisfying egg topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Grits Base

  • 1 cup stone-ground or quick-cooking grits
  • 4 cups water or milk (or a combination)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

Eggs

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for frying
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Salt to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped chives
  • Green onions
  • Hot sauce
  • Bacon bits
  • Fresh herbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or milk and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil over medium-high heat. This initial boiling ensures the grits cook evenly and absorb the liquid properly.
  2. Whisk in Grits: Gradually add the grits in a slow, steady stream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
  3. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Lower the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer the grits according to the package instructions—typically 20-30 minutes for stone-ground or 5-7 minutes for quick-cooking—stirring occasionally to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
  4. Stir in Butter and Cheese: Once the grits are creamy and fully cooked, remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until melted, then add 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the grits are smooth and cheesy.
  5. Fry the Eggs: While the grits cook or just before serving, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat to prepare for frying the eggs.
  6. Fry Eggs to Desired Doneness: Crack the eggs gently into the skillet. Cook 2-4 minutes for runny yolks or longer for firmer yolks. For sunny-side up, cook without flipping. For over-easy or over-medium, carefully flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Optionally baste the eggs with hot oil or butter for even cooking.
  7. Season Eggs: Season the eggs with salt and freshly ground black pepper while frying to enhance their flavor and complement the grits.
  8. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cheesy grits into individual bowls, then top each with a fried egg. Garnish with chopped chives, green onions, hot sauce, bacon bits, or fresh herbs as desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy grits and perfectly cooked eggs at their best.

Notes

  • Stone-ground grits provide a heartier texture and flavor, while quick-cooking grits shorten prep time and yield a smoother dish.
  • Using milk instead of water results in richer, creamier grits.
  • Stir grits often during cooking to prevent lumps and sticking.
  • Adjust egg cooking time according to personal preference for yolk consistency.
  • Optional garnishes add flavor, texture, and visual appeal—feel free to customize.
  • To avoid greasy eggs, use a non-stick skillet and moderate heat.

Keywords: cheesy grits, fried egg, breakfast recipe, southern cuisine, creamy grits, easy brunch

Find it online: https://tastybynova.com/cheesy-grits-with-fried-egg-recipe/