Microwave Corn Cheese Grits in a Mug

When in doubt, add cheese. That's always been my rule, especially for savory breakfasts.

• Preparation Time: 5 mins
• Cooking Time: 4 mins
• Total Time: 9 mins
• Calories: 407 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Japanese mayonnaise (such as Kewpie®)
• freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon whole milk, or more as needed
• 3 tablespoons quick-cooking grits
• 2 tablespoons shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese
• 1 scallion (dark part only), thinly sliced
• 0.75 cup water
• 0.25 cup corn kernels
• 0.5 teaspoon sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

To a 12-ounce microwave-safe mug (or larger), add the grits, water, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir together with a fork or whisk and place on a microwave-safe plate to catch any overflow. Microwave on high power for 1 ½ minutes, then remove, add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, and stir. Microwave for another 1 ½ to 2 minutes, or until the grits are tender. Add additional seasoning if needed.

Step 2

In a small bowl, stir together the corn, mozzarella cheese, sugar, Kewpie mayonnaise, and remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and as much freshly cracked black pepper as makes you happy.

Step 3

Remove the grits from the microwave and add 1 tablespoon of whole milk. If it is still too thick for your liking, add more a splash at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Add the corn cheese mixture on top and microwave on high power—without stirring together!—for 45 seconds, or until the cheese is completely melted.

Step 4

Mix the corn cheese into the grits thoroughly, then top with sliced scallions. Get a good cheese pull for your photo and enjoy!