What type of grits should I use for a creamy southern style cheese grits recipe?

Stone-ground grits offer the best, most authentic texture and flavor. Quick-cooking grits are a great option for a faster preparation, but avoid instant grits for this recipe.

How do I prevent my cheese grits from becoming lumpy?

The key is to slowly whisk the grits into boiling liquid. Continue to whisk frequently, especially during the initial cooking stage, to ensure a smooth consistency.

Can I make this cheese grits recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese grits in advance. When ready to serve, gently reheat them on the stove with a splash of milk or broth, stirring frequently, until creamy again.

What kind of cheese works best for cheesy grits?

Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a wonderfully balanced and extra creamy southern style cheese grits. A bit of cream cheese can also boost creaminess.

Why are my cheese grits too thick or too thin?

You can easily adjust the consistency. For thinner grits, stir in a little more hot broth or milk until desired creaminess is reached. For thicker grits, simply cook them a bit longer, allowing more liquid to evaporate.

Is this a good side for breakfast or dinner?

Absolutely! Creamy southern style cheese grits are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for both a hearty breakfast with eggs and bacon, or as a comforting side to dinner dishes like fried chicken or BBQ.

Cheese Grits Recipe Creamy Southern Style

Name: Cheese Grits Recipe Creamy Southern Style
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup (240g) Grits, stone-ground for best texture, quick-cooking for speed.; 4 cups (960ml) Broth or Water.; 1.5 cups (180g) Cheese, grated (a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack).; 0.5 cup (120ml) Milk or Cream.; 4 tbsp (60g) Butter.; Salt & Pepper, to taste.

Description

Master creamy, Southern-style cheese grits with this easy recipe. This hearty, family-friendly side features sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a silky smooth texture.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (240g) Grits, stone-ground for best texture, quick-cooking for speed.
4 cups (960ml) Broth or Water.
1.5 cups (180g) Cheese, grated (a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack).
0.5 cup (120ml) Milk or Cream.
4 tbsp (60g) Butter.
Salt & Pepper, to taste.

Instructions

Bring liquid to a boil: In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring 4 cups of broth or water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Whisk in grits: Slowly whisk 1 cup of grits into the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low immediately after adding.
Simmer and stir: Cook, stirring frequently, for 20-30 minutes for quick grits or 45-60 minutes for stone-ground grits, until the grits are tender and have thickened.
Finish with flavor: Remove from heat. Stir in 4 tbsp butter, 0.5 cup milk or cream, and 1.5 cups grated cheese until melted, smooth, and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Optional add-ins & smart swaps: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra savory depth. A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Experiment with other cheeses like smoked Gouda or Colby Jack. Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.

Troubleshooting: If grits are lumpy, whisk more vigorously during step 2. If too thick, add a little extra hot liquid. Not cheesy enough? Add more cheese.

Cook Time Variation: The recipe provides a range for cook time (20-30 minutes for quick grits, 45-60 minutes for stone-ground). The ‘Cook Time’ field above reflects the quicker method.

Nutrition Estimate: Nutritional data is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes, as specific values were not provided in the original article.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Cheese Grits Recipe Creamy Southern Style