Best 2 Southern Cheese Grits Recipes

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In the realm of Southern comfort food, few dishes embody the essence of warmth and satisfaction quite like cheese grits. This delectable dish, often served as a breakfast staple or a hearty side, has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts for generations. Cheese grits are a testament to the culinary artistry of the American South, blending creamy polenta with a symphony of melted cheeses, resulting in a dish that is both indulgent and comforting.

This article presents a collection of cheese grits recipes that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. From classic stovetop methods to slow-cooker variations, and even a vegan alternative, these recipes offer a range of options for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you prefer the richness of sharp cheddar or the tanginess of goat cheese, these recipes provide a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

For those seeking a traditional approach, the "Classic Southern Cheese Grits" recipe offers a straightforward guide to creating a creamy and flavorful dish using simple ingredients. Alternatively, the "Slow-Cooker Cheese Grits" recipe provides a convenient method for preparing a hearty breakfast or brunch without the need for constant supervision.

For those with a taste for adventure, the "Loaded Cheese Grits Casserole" recipe transforms this classic dish into a hearty and indulgent main course, complete with layers of cheese, bacon, and vegetables. And for those seeking a plant-based option, the "Vegan Cheese Grits" recipe delivers a creamy and satisfying dish using dairy-free alternatives.

No matter your culinary preferences, this article offers a delightful exploration of cheese grits, providing recipes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the American South while also catering to modern tastes and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove or slow cooker, and embark on a journey of flavor with these irresistible cheese grits recipes.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SOUTHERN CHEESE GRITS



Southern Cheese Grits image

A Southern tradition, creamy cheese grits with a zip of spice makes for a perfect side dish to barbecue, or for a holiday get together. They were always on the table at my mother-in-law's house. A real family tradition.

Provided by Deborah

Categories     Side Dish     Grain Side Dish Recipes     Grits

Time 1h45m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 13

nonstick cooking spray
4 cups water
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup regular grits, uncooked
1 egg, well beaten
1 ½ cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
1 dash hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco®), or more to taste
1 pinch paprika, or as needed

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Coat a 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Bring water and salt to a boil in a pot over high heat. Add grits, reduce heat to low, and let simmer until tender, about 30 minutes.
  • Pour grits into a large mixing bowl. Add beaten egg slowly, followed by 1 1/4 cups Cheddar cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, butter, pepper, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Mix thoroughly and pour into the prepared dish. Sprinkle remaining Cheddar cheese on top and sprinkle lightly with paprika for coloring. Cover.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until thickened and cheese is melted, about 1 hour, uncovering the last 10 minutes to let a crust form on top.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 222.1 calories, Carbohydrate 17.7 g, Cholesterol 56.5 mg, Fat 12.6 g, Fiber 0.4 g, Protein 9.4 g, SaturatedFat 7.7 g, Sodium 386.7 mg, Sugar 1.5 g

CREAMY SOUTHERN SHRIMP AND CHEESE GRITS



Creamy Southern Shrimp and Cheese Grits image

I came up with this recipe when I couldn't find anything else that would satisfy my cravings for a gourmet shrimp and grits without spending a ton of money at restaurants. This is simple and delicious, and is made with things we mostly all have in our homes. Use chicken stock in grits, if you prefer.

Provided by Bella V.

Categories     Side Dish     Grain Side Dish Recipes     Grits

Time 50m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 16

3 ½ cups water
1 cup quick-cooking grits
3 ounces farmers cheese
2 ounces goat cheese
1 slice American cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 large tomato, diced
2 green onions, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon bacon drippings, or to taste
1 pound fresh shrimp - peeled, deveined, and tails removed
salt and ground black pepper to taste
¼ cup half-and-half, or more to taste
1 tablespoon dry sherry
1 green onion (green tops only), sliced

Steps:

  • Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan and slowly whisk in grits; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until thickened and tender, 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir farmers cheese, goat cheese, and American cheese into grits until cheese has melted. Set grits aside and keep warm.
  • Melt butter with vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir tomato, 2 green onions, and garlic in the hot skillet until the vegetables are tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in bacon drippings until combined. Cook and stir shrimp with vegetables until bright pink, about 5 minutes; season to taste with salt and black pepper.
  • Mix grits into shrimp mixture and stir in half-and-half until smooth. Simmer the mixture to blend flavors, about 5 minutes, and add sherry. Simmer 3 more minutes before adjusting salt and black pepper. Garnish with sliced green tops of 1 green onion before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 254.9 calories, Carbohydrate 6.7 g, Cholesterol 154.1 mg, Fat 16.4 g, Fiber 0.6 g, Protein 19.6 g, SaturatedFat 9.8 g, Sodium 400.7 mg, Sugar 1.3 g

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Tips
  • Choose the right grits. Quick-cooking grits will make a creamier dish, while stone-ground grits will have a more rustic texture.
  • Use good-quality cheese. The cheese you use will make a big difference in the flavor of the grits, so don't skimp on quality.
  • Don't overcook the grits. Grits should be cooked until they are tender but still have a slight bite to them.
  • Season the grits to taste. Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are all good choices for seasoning grits.
  • Serve the grits immediately. Grits are best when they are served hot and fresh.
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Conclusion
Southern cheese grits are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are easy to make and can be tailored to your own personal taste. Whether you like them creamy or cheesy, mild or spicy, there is a recipe for Southern cheese grits that you will love. So next time you are looking for a comforting and delicious meal, give Southern cheese grits a try. You won't be disappointed!

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