CREAMY CHEDDAR GRITS

Creamy Cheddar Grits image

Provided by Ina Garten

Time 1h

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 cup fine quick-cooking grits (not instant)
1 1/4 cups half-and-half
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups grated aged sharp Cheddar cheese (4 ounces)
1/2 cup chopped scallions, white and green parts (4 scallions)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Grated Cheddar and chopped scallions, for garnish

Steps:

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a heavy 4-quart saucepan. Add the salt, then slowly add the grits in a thin, steady stream, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits thicken, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Add the half-and-half and butter to the grits and stir. The mixture will seem thin but it will thicken as it cooks. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally for 45 minutes, until very smooth and creamy. Off the heat, stir in the Cheddar, scallions, and pepper. Season to taste and serve hot with a sprinkle of grated cheese and scallions.