You know cheese grits are a Southern staple, right? They're creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! Whether you're craving something classic or feeling adventurous with spicy jalapeños, there's a recipe for everyone. Imagine sinking your spoon into shrimp and cheese grits or indulging in baked grits with bacon. Sounds delicious, huh? Stick around to discover the five best cheese grits recipes that'll have your taste buds dancing!
Classic Cheddar Cheese Grits
Classic Cheddar Cheese Grits are a comforting Southern dish that perfectly blends creamy textures with rich, cheesy flavors. This simple yet delightful recipe is ideal for breakfast or as a savory side dish.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you enjoy it topped with shrimp or served alongside grilled meats, these cheesy grits are sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coarse stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, bring the water and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, reducing the heat to low and stirring frequently.
Cook the grits for about 20-25 minutes, or until they're thickened and creamy. Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Season with freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality, sharp cheddar cheese, as it will melt beautifully and provide a rich taste.
If you want to add a bit of spice, consider incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the grits before serving.
Additionally, you can prepare the grits in advance and reheat them gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or milk to restore their creamy consistency.
Enjoy experimenting with different cheese varieties or mix-ins like sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon to make this dish your own!
Shrimp and Cheese Grits
Shrimp and cheese grits is a classic Southern dish that combines creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp, often seasoned with spices that improve the flavors of both components. This dish is perfect for a hearty breakfast, a comforting lunch, or an elegant dinner.
The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful experience that's sure to please any crowd. Follow this recipe to create a delicious plate of shrimp and cheese grits that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cook the grits for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and creamy.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, reserving the drippings in the skillet.
Add the olive oil to the skillet and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, cooking until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
Mix the cooked shrimp into the grits, and serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and chopped green onions.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp before serving.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese; gouda or pepper jack can add a unique twist to the dish.
Make sure to taste the grits before serving, as the cheese can add saltiness, and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
For a lighter version, feel free to use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the grits, and you can even substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether.
Enjoy your shrimp and cheese grits!
Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Grits
Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Grits are a delightful twist on the classic Southern dish, bringing a zesty kick and creamy texture to your plate. This recipe combines the comforting taste of grits with the bold flavor of jalapeños and the richness of cheese, making it a perfect side dish for grilled meats or a hearty breakfast option.
Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply want to raise your home-cooked meal, these grits are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
In a large saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually stir in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter, milk or heavy cream, chopped jalapeños, and cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the cheesy grits hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the jalapeños before adding them to the grits. This will improve their sweetness and add a smoky element to the dish.
Additionally, adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your heat preference—more for a spicier dish or less for a milder flavor. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique twist.
Finally, these grits can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
Baked Cheese Grits With Bacon
Baked cheese grits with bacon is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the creamy texture of grits with the savory goodness of cheese and crispy bacon. This baked version is perfect as a side dish for brunch or a hearty addition to any meal.
The flavors meld beautifully, creating a deliciously cheesy and smoky experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it's relatively simple to prepare, making it a great recipe to impress your guests or enjoy with family.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil, then gradually stir in the stone-ground grits.
Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, crumbled bacon, eggs, milk, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with sliced green onions.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture before baking.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add a dash of hot sauce for some heat. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can increase the milk or include cream in the recipe.
Finally, make sure to let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious baked cheese grits with bacon!
Creamy Goat Cheese and Herb Grits
Creamy Goat Cheese and Herb Grits are a delicious twist on traditional grits, combining the rich tanginess of goat cheese with the fresh flavors of herbs. This dish is perfect as a comforting side or even as a base for grilled meats or vegetables.
The creamy texture of the grits, paired with the herbaceous notes, creates a delightful balance that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grits (preferably stone-ground)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or thyme), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reducing the heat to low.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, stir in the goat cheese, heavy cream, butter, and chopped herbs.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until everything is well combined and creamy.
Extra Tips:
For an even creamier texture, consider adding a bit more heavy cream or even a splash of milk to the grits as they cook.
If you prefer a stronger goat cheese flavor, feel free to increase the amount of cheese used. You can also experiment with different herbs based on your preference or what you have on hand—basil or dill can add interesting flavor profiles.
Finally, serve the grits warm and garnish with additional herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.