Gruyere Grits

Ingredients

1/4 cup plus
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cups water 1 teaspoon salt
1 cup Carolina or Alabama stone ground grits
1 large egg
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1.25 cup grated Gruyere cheese
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. 
2. Grease a 2-quart casserole with 2 tablespoons butter.
3. Cook Grits (Generally, per package Instructions).
1. Combine the remaining 1/4 cup butter, water, and salt in a heavy medium saucepan over medium heat. 
2. When the mixture comes to a simmer, add the grits, stirring, until thoroughly combined. Continue to cook the grits at a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 15-25 minutes. 
4. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg, cream, thyme, and black pepper. 
5. Stir into the cooked grits along with the cheeses. 
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole and smooth the top. 
7. Bake until set, about 45 minutes. 
8. Remove from the oven and let stand for about 5 minutes before serving.