Cheese grits are a comforting, creamy, and deeply Southern dish that blends simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. Made from ground corn slowly simmered until tender, then enriched with butter and cheese, cheese grits are a favorite side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether served alongside eggs and bacon, topped with shrimp, or paired with roast meats, cheese grits are endlessly versatile. The key to delicious, rich cheese grits is using quality cheese and cooking the grits slowly to develop a smooth, velvety texture. This classic recipe for cheese grits is perfect for anyone looking to explore hearty Southern cooking at home.
What Are Grits?
Grits are a traditional Southern food made from ground dried corn. Similar in texture to polenta but typically finer in grind, grits can be prepared plain, creamy, or flavored with ingredients like butter, cheese, or herbs. Grits are commonly enjoyed as a breakfast food but also make excellent sides for savory main courses.
There are several types of grits to choose from:
- Stone-ground grits– coarse texture with a hearty corn flavor
- Quick-cooking grits– more refined, cooks faster, good for everyday meals
- Instant grits– ultra-fast preparation, but less texture and flavor
For the best results and flavor, stone-ground grits are ideal, but this cheese grits recipe can be adapted to whatever type of grits you have available.
Ingredients for Cheese Grits
Making cheese grits requires just a few ingredients, but each plays an important role in creating the final taste and texture. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits (or quick grits, if preferred)
- 4 cups water, milk, or a combination of both (for richer flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a dash of hot sauce or garlic powder for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cheese Grits
Step 1: Boil the Liquid
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of liquid (water, milk, or half-and-half) to a boil over medium heat. Add the salt to season the grits from the start. If using milk, be sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from scalding.
Step 2: Add the Grits
Slowly stir in the grits while whisking constantly. This helps prevent clumps from forming. Once the grits are fully mixed in, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the grits simmer, stirring every 5-10 minutes to keep them from sticking to the bottom.
Step 3: Cook Until Creamy
Depending on the type of grits, cooking time will vary:
- Stone-ground grits: 40 to 60 minutes
- Quick grits: about 5 to 10 minutes
The grits should be tender and thick, not watery or gritty. If they start to dry out before they are fully cooked, stir in more warm liquid a little at a time.
Step 4: Add Butter and Cheese
Once the grits are fully cooked, remove them from the heat. Stir in the butter, shredded cheese, black pepper, and any optional flavorings. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Cheese grits are best served hot and fresh. Spoon them into bowls or plates and enjoy them as a side or the base for other dishes like shrimp and grits, braised greens, or fried chicken.
Variations and Add-Ins
Cheese grits are flexible and can be customized to suit your taste or the meal you’re serving. Here are some flavorful variations:
- Spicy cheese grits: add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper
- Garlic cheese grits: stir in sautéed minced garlic or garlic powder
- Herbed grits: mix in chopped chives, thyme, or parsley
- Smoky grits: use smoked cheddar or add crumbled cooked bacon
- Creamy grits: stir in cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for extra richness
You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or parmesan for different textures and flavors.
Serving Ideas for Cheese Grits
Cheese grits are a versatile dish that can complement many types of meals. Here are some popular serving options:
Classic Breakfast
Serve cheese grits with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and buttered toast. Add a spoonful of salsa or hot sauce for extra kick.
Shrimp and Grits
Top hot cheese grits with sautéed shrimp cooked with garlic, butter, and spices. This Southern staple is both indulgent and satisfying.
Grilled or Roasted Meats
Pair cheese grits with grilled chicken, pork chops, or roast beef. The creamy grits balance savory flavors beautifully.
Vegetarian Meals
Serve cheese grits with roasted vegetables, braised greens, or a mushroom ragù for a hearty meat-free option.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Grits
- Whisk constantlywhen adding grits to boiling liquid to avoid lumps.
- Stir oftenwhile cooking to prevent burning and sticking.
- Don’t skimp on liquid– grits absorb a lot and need moisture to stay creamy.
- Use bold cheeselike sharp cheddar for rich flavor.
- Add butter and cheese off heatto avoid curdling or separation.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, cheese grits can be stored and reheated easily:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change significantly when thawed.
You can even repurpose cold grits by forming them into cakes and pan-frying for a crispy side dish the next day.
This recipe for cheese grits captures everything that’s great about Southern comfort food simple ingredients, bold flavor, and hearty texture. Whether you’re cooking a weekday breakfast or preparing a holiday brunch, cheese grits are an easy and delicious addition to your table. With a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, you can make a dish that feels special, tastes rich, and satisfies everyone who takes a bite. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding herbs, spices, or mix-ins. Once you try homemade cheese grits, it’s likely to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.