Grits, Cheese-Jalapeno

Ingredients

• Butter for greasing casserole
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 1 (8-oz.) package pasteurized processed cheese, sliced or diced, at room temperature
• 4 to 8 tbsp. (2 to 4 oz.) butter, at room temperature
• 2 large, extra large, or jumbo eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk or cream
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped pickled hot peppers (e.g., jalapeno)
• Approximately 3/4 cup (3 oz.) Monterey Jack pepper cheese, coarsely shredded or thinly sliced (or milder cheese)