Creamy Southern Cheese Grits

Discover this delicious grits recipe! My creamy Southern cheese grits are perfect for breakfast or dinner—easy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!

May 13, 2025
By Mia Westlake.

Jump to Recipe print

0 Out of 5 Based on: 0 Ratings.

A Warm Bowl of Comfort: The Grits Recipe

Oh my gosh, let me tell you about my first spoonful of grits—it was like a warm hug from the inside! i was visiting my cousin in south carolina, and she whipped up a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness.

I thought i was tasting a piece of heaven. ever since then, i knew i had to find the perfect grits recipe to recreate that comforting moment.

Grits, a southern staple, have this nutty flavor that just screams comfort food. seriously, if you haven't tried them yet, you’re missing out!

Grits have a rich history in america, particularly in the south. they trace back to native american cuisine and have been a beloved dish in southern kitchens for generations.

Nowadays, you can find them everywhere—from high-end restaurants to humble diners—that’s how popular they are! they’re just so versatile; you can have them silky smooth for breakfast or super cheesy to accompany a savory lunch or dinner.

And here's the kicker: you can whip this dish up in 30 minutes from start to finish. easy peasy!

Why You’ll Love This Grits Recipe

So, here’s why this creamy southern cheese grits recipe is a keeper: first, it’s incredibly easy. seriously, if you can boil water, you can make grits.

Prep time is just 10 minutes , and when done right, each bowl is filled with creamy texture and sharp cheddar cheese that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Plus, it’s wallet-friendly too! you can whip up a serving for about $7, and it serves four , making it a fantastic meal for any gathering.

When it comes to nutrition, this dish packs in some real benefits. grits are primarily made from corn and are gluten-free, which is great for folks with dietary restrictions.

They derive their natural flavor from cornmeal , which is high in complex carbohydrates—perfect fuel for your day. the addition of whole milk and cheese brings in protein and healthy fats.

If you're feeling fancy, toss in some crispy bacon bits or sautéed shrimp for a protein punch!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Grits can be your go-to for so many gatherings! think about serving it on a weekend brunch buffet alongside fried chicken or shrimp and gravy—now, that's a party on a plate! or, if you’re just chilling out on a tuesday night, a bowl of cheesy grits can save the day and lift your spirits.

What’s more comforting than a hot plate of shrimp and grits with bacon after a long day? just a heads up, folks, the slow cooker version also does wonders if you’re feeling overwhelmed with life!

And if you have picky eaters in the family, you can jazz it up however your heart desires. add jalapeños for spice, or even roasted veggies if you're looking for something a little more sophisticated.

You know, like a trendy brunch spot but in your own kitchen!

Time to Gather Your Ingredients

Alrighty then, let’s get cooking! You’ll want to round up some easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s a quick list:

• Stone-ground grits
• Water (or chicken broth for an upgrade)
• Salt
• Whole milk
• Butter
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Black pepper and optional garnish like fresh chives

The magic happens in just a few steps, so you'll be on your way to a delicious bowl of creamy cheese grits in no time.

This dish is simple yet satisfying, and it has the potential to impress anyone at your dinner table. i mean, who wouldn’t want to dive into a decadent bowl of comfort food? let’s get that pot boiling and dive into the world of grits!

Creamy Southern Cheese Grits Recipe Card

0.0 / 5 (0 Review)

Preparation time:10 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (250g)
• 4 cups water (950ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt (5g), plus more to taste
• 1 cup whole milk (240ml)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (100g)
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

• In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
• Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt.
• Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to prevent clumping.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until grits are tender. Grits should be thick and creamy.
• Stir in whole milk and butter, mixing until fully incorporated.
• Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:320

Fat:15g

Fiber:1g

Recipe Info

Category:Side Dish

Cuisine:Southern

Your Go-To Essential Ingredients Guide

Let’s dive into the world of cooking with some essential ingredients that will make your time in the kitchen a whole lot easier and more fun.

You know, whipping together a delicious dish like grits recipe doesn’t have to be rocket science. grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Premium Core Components

When it comes to the premium core components , i often find myself in the grocery aisle, wondering what to grab.

Detailed measurements are key here. for example, if you’re using 1 cup of stone-ground grits (that’s about 250g in metric), be precise.

Quality indicators matter too! look for grits that have a nice, coarse texture. no one likes lumpy grits, right?

Storing your ingredients properly is vital, guys! storage guidelines say to keep your dry goods in a cool, dry place.

Most grits can last up to a year, but don’t push it—always check for freshness before using. give those grits a sniff; they should smell nutty and earthy.

Signature Seasoning Blend

Okay, let’s jazz things up with a signature seasoning blend . a personal favorite of mine is a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Seriously, it adds a whole new dimension to your shrimp with grits or even some grillades and cheesy grits !

For those herbs, think chives or parsley. they pair perfectly with cheese! fun fact: the freshness tips i use involve squeezing a bit between my fingers.

If they smell strong, you’re good to go!

Smart Substitutions

And what happens if you’re running low on an ingredient? just remember your smart substitutions . love that cheesy shrimp and grits easy recipe but out of cheddar? you could swap it for gouda.

Or grab what you have—like feta for a tangy twist!

Don’t forget about dietary needs. if you need a dairy-free option , almond milk works wonders in your shrimp and cheese grits recipe southern style.

Got no grits on hand? quinoa can stand in for a wholesome twist!

Kitchen Equipment Essentials

Now, onto the tools! having the right kitchen equipment essentials makes cooking enjoyable. i’m talking about a nice medium saucepan, a whisk, and a wooden spoon.

Trust me, you’ll want to avoid those metal spoons—they scratch up your pots and pans.

If you don’t have a whisk, a fork can do, too! And for storage solutions, look for airtight containers for your spices; they’ll stay fresher longer. That’s just smart cooking, folks!

Wrapping Up This Ingredient Treasure

Having the right ingredients, spices, and equipment doesn’t just make you a master in the kitchen; it makes the process enjoyable! i mean, who doesn't love whipping up some shrimp and grits with bacon on a lazy sunday? just remember, the heart of these recipes like the slow cooker shrimp and grits or the oven baked shrimp and grits lies in fresh, quality ingredients.

So, what’s next? let’s put all this knowledge into action and get cooking! it’s time to grab the recipe for those creamy southern cheese grits that we’ve been chatting about and turn that into something special in your own kitchen.

Happy cooking!

Mastering Professional Cooking Method: Your Gateway to Culinary Magic

Alright, my friends! ready to elevate your cooking game? let’s dive into the professional cooking method . whether you’re aiming for that cheesy shrimp and grits easy recipe or trying to impress your friends with grillades and cheesy grits , having the right mindset and prep can make all the difference.

So grab your apron, and let's get cooking!

Essential Preparation Steps

First things first: let’s talk mise en place , a fancy french term that just means “everything in its place.

” it’s like staging your kitchen for a cooking show—everything you need is set out and ready to go. for those creamy cheese grits, have your grits, cheddar, and milk handy.

It'll save you time and make you feel like a pro!

Time management is also key. You want to use every minute wisely. If your grits take 20 minutes to cook, start prepping your other ingredients while they bubble away.

Speaking of prep, let’s chat organization strategies . keep your workspace clean. use small bowls for measuring, and clear as you go! there’s nothing worse than hunting for that teaspoon while your grits are ready to boil over.

And don’t forget about safety! Always watch your hands and keep raw ingredients separate from cooked foods. You can channel your inner Gordon Ramsay without the drama—just be careful with those knife skills!

Step-by-Step Process to Perfect Grits

Now, onto the fun part: the actual cooking! Here’s a quick rundown to make sure you get it just right.

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt .
3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits , breaking up any lumps.
4. Cover and simmer for 20- 25 minutes on low heat. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. Visual cue : It should look thick and creamy.
5. Once ready, turn off the heat and swoon as you mix in 1 cup of whole milk and 2 tablespoons of butter until it’s dreamy.
6. Finally, toss in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Accuracy is everything —your grits should be perfectly creamy but not too mushy. That’s how you avoid the dreaded lumpy grits situation!

Expert Techniques for Gravy-Loving Grits

Let’s see how to make your dish stand out. one thing i love to do is use chicken broth instead of half the water for real depth.

If you want to go all-out, add some crispy bacon or sautéed shrimp. can you even imagine the deliciousness of shrimp with grits mixed with smoky bacon?

Watch for quality checkpoints too. Every time you add ingredients—like cheese or broth—taste! Add salt and pepper or even a splash of hot sauce for that kick.

If things go sideways, no worries! A bit of extra liquid can save undercooked grits, and if they’re too runny, just let ‘em simmer a tad longer.

Success Strategies for Grits Greatness

We’ve all been there—trying to whip up something fun only to mess it up. You want silky, rich Shrimp and Grits with Bacon , not a gloppy mess. Here’s what to avoid:

• Overcooking the grits. Trust your timing!
• Using quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground. It’s just not the same!

For perfect results , let your grits hang out on low, covered, until you’re ready to serve. making them ahead? just give them a quick reheat with a touch more milk to keep them creamy.

Wrapping It Up

Alright, there you go! with these professional cooking methods, you’ll be whipping up that simple shrimp and grits recipe like a champ.

Trust me, once you nail this technique, you’ll feel like you can tackle any dish—be it the oven baked shrimp and grits or even a savory slow cooker shrimp and grits dish.

Oh, and stick around! I’ll share some additional information in the next section, like variations and classic pairings to keep your cooking adventures exciting and delicious! Happy cooking, everyone!

Grits Recipe: The Heart of Southern Comfort

Hey there, food lovers! let’s dive into something delicious today, shall we? if you’re looking for that classic southern comfort food, you gotta try this creamy southern cheese grits recipe .

Trust me, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. you know what i mean? it's the kind of dish that can turn any breakfast into a special occasion or make your dinner feel like a cozy gathering.

Pro Tips & Secrets

Okay, before we get cooking, let me drop some pro tips . first off, when you’re making your grits, always whisk them in gradually.

This is the secret sauce to a smooth texture—no one wants clumpy grits!

Now, if you’re short on time (who isn’t these days?), try using a mix of water and chicken broth for extra flavor without any extra time.

Honestly, it makes a huge difference! and don’t skip on the butter and cheese; they are what make these grits sing! feel free to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for that all-important cheesy goodness .

Perfect Presentation

Let’s chat about presentation. you want your grits to look as good as they taste, right? for plating, think rustic and homey.

Use a bowl rather than a plate, and pile the grits high.

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top adds a nice pop! want to impress your friends? garnish with some chopped chives or parsley for that touch of green.

Trust me, a little bit of color makes all the difference.

Storage & Make-Ahead

So, you made a big ol’ pot of grits . what do you do with the leftovers? first off, let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

They’ll be fine for about three to four days .

When you’re ready to chow down, just add a splash of milk to help them loosen up, and pop them in the microwave.

Easy! you can also make grits ahead of time and keep them warm on low heat until you’re ready to serve.

Grits are all about relaxation, cooking shouldn't be stressful!

Creative Variations

Now, let's talk about variations . this is where it gets fun ! you could add some crispy bacon (who doesn’t love bacon?) or toss in some sautéed shrimp for that shrimp and grits twist.

I like to think of it as a way to switch things up based on what’s in your fridge.

Want a veggie option? Go for some roasted red peppers or sautéed spinach. And if you're feeling feisty, throw in some jalapeños for a kick!

Complete Nutrition Guide

Alright, a quick nutrition breakdown—because we all want to be healthy while indulging. this dish serves about four and clocks in at about 320 calories per serving .

You’re getting carbs from the grits and protein from the cheese, making it not just tasty but pretty balanced too.

Go ahead, enjoy it guilt-free!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! the ultimate grits recipe that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. whether you whip up some cheesy shrimp and grits easy or stick to a classic, this dish is bound to impress.

Remember, cooking is more about having fun and sharing love with friends and family than following the rules to a t.

Let your creativity flow and make it your own! happy cooking, y’all!