Cracker Barrel's Country Morning Skillet (Home Edition)

Instructions

1. 1

   **Prepare Grits:** In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups water (for fluffier) or milk (for creamier) to a boil. Slowly whisk in the quick-cooking grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in 1 tbsp butter, salt, and pepper to taste. Keep warm, covered, off the heat.

2. 2

   **Cook Bacon:** While grits cook, place bacon slices in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Cook until crispy, flipping occasionally, about 8-10 minutes. Remove bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Pour off most of the bacon grease from the skillet, reserving 1-2 tablespoons.

3. 3

   **Cook Sausage:** In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the sausage patties. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage to a clean plate.

4. 4

   **Make Fried Apples:** In the same skillet (you may need to wipe out excess grease or add a tiny bit of fresh butter if skillet is too dry), melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-12 minutes.

5. 5

   **Cook Eggs:** In a separate non-stick skillet (or clean out the main skillet if preferred, adding a little butter or oil), cook eggs to your preference. For fried eggs, crack eggs into the hot skillet and cook until whites are set and yolks are desired runniness, about 2-4 minutes. For scrambled, whisk eggs with a splash of milk and scramble until cooked through.

6. 6

   **Assemble and Serve:** Divide the warm grits, crispy bacon, cooked sausage patties, and fried apples among four plates. Place two eggs on each plate. Season eggs with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, with optional maple syrup for the apples.