When it comes to comfort food in the American South, cheese grits recipe reign supreme. This creamy, savory dish is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with everything from fried chicken and shrimp to eggs and sausage. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, cheese grits deliver rich flavor and a satisfying texture that’s hard to beat.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect cheese grits from scratch, along with expert tips, variations, and serving ideas that will turn this humble dish into a standout favorite at your table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Rich and Creamy Texture – Buttery and cheesy with a comforting mouthfeel.
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Simple to Make – Requires just a few pantry staples and one pot.
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Endlessly Versatile – Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner with endless pairing options.
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Southern Classic Done Right – A timeless dish with roots in traditional Southern cuisine.
What Are Cheese Grits?
Cheese grits are a creamy cornmeal-based dish enhanced with butter and cheese, typically cheddar. Grits themselves are ground corn cooked in water or milk until smooth and thick. When cheese is added, they transform into a luscious, flavorful side dish that pairs well with meats, eggs, seafood, and vegetables.
This dish has strong roots in the Southern United States, where grits have long been a staple food. Adding cheese elevates their flavor and richness, making them more indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make a basic pot of cheese grits:
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1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant or quick-cooking)
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4 cups liquid (a mix of water and milk or heavy cream is ideal)
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1 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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Optional: garlic powder, black pepper, cream cheese, hot sauce
Note: You can substitute different types of cheese such as Gouda, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack depending on your preferences.
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
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Total Time: 35–50 minutes
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Servings: 4–6
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheese Grits Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Liquid
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring 4 cups of liquid (e.g., 2 cups milk + 2 cups water) and 1 teaspoon of salt to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Whisk in the Grits
Slowly pour the grits into the boiling liquid while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Step 3: Simmer and Stir
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add more water or milk if the mixture gets too thick too quickly.
Step 4: Add Butter and Cheese
Once the grits are soft and creamy, stir in butter and shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper, a pinch of garlic powder, or a splash of hot sauce. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips for the Creamiest Cheese Grits
Use Stone-Ground Grits
Stone-ground grits offer superior texture and flavor compared to instant or quick-cooking varieties. They take longer to cook but are worth the wait.
Whisk Constantly at the Start
This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth consistency from the very beginning.
Simmer Low and Slow
Cooking grits gently over low heat is the key to getting that velvety, creamy result without scorching the bottom.
Add Cheese at the End
Cheese should be stirred in at the end of cooking so it melts smoothly and doesn’t break or get stringy.
Variations You Can Try
1. Spicy Cheese Grits
Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
2. Garlic and Herb Grits
Stir in garlic powder, chives, parsley, or thyme for added depth and freshness.
3. Cream Cheese Grits
Replace half of the cheddar with cream cheese for a richer, silkier version.
4. Bacon Cheese Grits
Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon and finish with scallions for a savory breakfast treat.
5. Pimento Cheese Grits
Stir in homemade or store-bought pimento cheese for a Southern twist.
What to Serve with Cheese Grits
Classic Pairings
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Shrimp and Grits: A Southern staple where sautéed shrimp in spicy gravy sits atop cheesy grits.
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Fried Chicken: Serve grits as a creamy counterpart to crispy chicken.
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Eggs and Sausage: A comforting breakfast combo that’s hearty and filling.
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Grilled Vegetables: Pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables.
More Creative Ideas
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Pulled Pork or Brisket: Use cheese grits as a base instead of mashed potatoes.
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Cajun Fish: Serve grits with blackened catfish or tilapia.
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Poached Eggs and Greens: A healthy brunch idea with sautéed spinach or kale.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftover Grits
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Let them cool completely and store in an airtight container.
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Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating Tips
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Grits will firm up in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to restore creaminess.
Can You Freeze Cheese Grits?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently with added liquid to restore texture.
Cheese Grits for Special Occasions
Holiday Brunches
Serve them with eggs, ham, or a breakfast casserole for an easy crowd-pleaser.
Southern Dinner Parties
Cheese grits are a fantastic side for pork chops, barbecued ribs, or grilled steak.
Potluck or Buffet-Style Meals
Keep warm in a slow cooker and serve alongside other comfort food staples.
Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)
Note: Based on a basic recipe with cheddar and milk
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Calories: 250–350
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Protein: 8–10g
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Fat: 15–20g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sodium: 300–500mg
You can reduce fat and sodium by using less cheese or swapping in low-fat milk.
FAQs
Are cheese grits gluten-free?
Yes, grits are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the label for cross-contamination if needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Make a batch the night before and reheat with extra milk or broth. You can even keep it warm in a slow cooker on low.
What type of cheese is best for cheese grits?
Sharp cheddar is the most traditional, but Monterey Jack, Gouda, Parmesan, or a blend all work well.
Are grits and polenta the same thing?
Not quite. Both are ground corn, but grits are typically made from white corn and are finer. Polenta is often made from yellow corn and has a coarser grind.
Conclusion
Cheese grits are the epitome of comfort food—simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. With their creamy texture and rich flavor, they’re the perfect side dish for just about any meal. Whether you’re keeping it classic or adding your own creative spin, cheese grits offer endless possibilities for flavor and enjoyment.
So, next time you’re planning brunch, dinner, or a holiday meal, don’t overlook this Southern classic. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can make a batch of cheese grits that steals the show.