Pioneer Woman Cheese Grits Recipe
The Pioneer Woman Cheese Grits Recipe is a true classic. It is creamy, cheesy, and very warm.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quick-cooking yellow grits.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
- 2 large eggs optional.
- Fresh chives for garnish.
Instructions
Boil the Broth
- Place your saucepan on the stove. Pour in the chicken broth and salt. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil.
Add the Grits
- Slowly pour in the dry grits. Use a whisk while you pour. This prevents any lumps from forming.
Lower the Heat
- Turn the stove heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight lid. Let the grits simmer very gently.
Cook Until Soft
- Cook them for about five minutes. Stir them once or twice during this. They should become thick and creamy.
Add Butter and Cream
- Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the butter and cream. Mix until the butter melts completely.
Fold in Cheese
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese now. Stir until the cheese is all melted. The color should be bright orange.
Season the Dish
- Add the cayenne pepper for a kick. Taste it to see if it needs salt. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Serve it Hot
- Transfer the grits to a bowl. Top with fresh chives if you like. Serve them while they are very hot.
Notes
- Use chicken broth. It adds way more flavor than water.
- Whisk constantly at first. This keeps the grits very smooth.
- Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese does not melt as well.
- Use heavy cream. This makes the dish extra velvety.
- Don't rush the heat. Low heat prevents the bottom from burning.
- Add a little spice. Cayenne pepper cuts through the rich fat.
- Keep the lid on. Steam helps the grits cook evenly.
- Serve immediately. Grits can get stiff as they cool.
- Whisk in an egg. This makes them extra fluffy and rich.