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The Ultimate Creamy Southern Cheese Grits Recipe

Close-up of creamy cheese grits baked until golden brown with a melted cheese topping in a white ramekin.
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Make the best creamy Southern cheese grits using sharp cheddar and heavy cream. This recipe delivers rich, savory flavor and a smooth texture, perfect as a hearty breakfast or ultimate side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring the water or chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. If you use broth, you add more flavor to your cheese grits.
  2. Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low.
  3. Cover the saucepan and simmer, stirring every 5 minutes, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the grits are thick and tender.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5 more minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely.
  6. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the grits are smooth and creamy.
  7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving immediately as a savory cheddar grits side dish or breakfast.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use stone-ground grits instead of quick-cooking grits.
  • Shred your own cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • If the grits become too thick while sitting, stir in a splash of warm milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://chefsily.com/ultimate-creamy-cheese-grits-recipe/