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A skillet of creamy polenta, reminiscent of cheese grits, garnished with chopped herbs and black pepper, with a wooden spoon resting on the side.

Cheese Grits

Mandy Applegate
Cheese grits are rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness. They’re easy to make and pair well with everything from crispy bacon and eggs to shrimp, sausage, or pork chops. Whether you're serving them for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, they always bring a comforting, Southern-inspired touch to the table. 
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 194 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

  • cup grits stone-ground quick cooking, or regular
  • 2 ⅔ cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 5 ounces sharp cheddar cheese grated

Instructions
 

  • In a deep skillet, bring the chicken broth, butter, and salt to a boil.
    2 ⅔ cups chicken broth, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 teaspoon salt
  • Once the water is boiling, gradually add the grits, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
    ⅔ cup grits stone-ground
  • Cover the saucepan, lower the heat to a simmer, and cook the grits according to the package directions.
  • When the grits are done, stir in the black pepper and garlic powder to taste.
    ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Finally, add the cheese and stir until it melts and is fully incorporated.
    5 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
  • Serve and enjoy!

Video

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id="FDZTZKE6" upload-date="2025-09-11T11:00:40+00:00" name="How to Make Southern Cheese Grits" description="Creamy Southern cheese grits perfect for breakfast or dinner." player-type="default" override-embed="default"]

Notes

  • Use stone-ground or regular grits: Quick-cooking grits work in a pinch, but stone-ground grits have the best texture and flavor.
  • Whisk constantly: Adding the grits slowly and whisking helps prevent clumps. No one wants lumpy grits!
  • Don’t rush: Let the grits simmer until they’re fully cooked and creamy. If they seem too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream.
  • Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but parmesan cheese or a mix of cheeses works too.
  • Season to taste: A little garlic powder, black pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne can take the flavor up a notch.
  • Toppings: Crispy bacon, green onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce make these even better.
  • Make ahead: Cook them as usual, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Fridge: Let them cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or water and warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until smooth. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring between each one. If they seem too thick, just add a little more liquid to bring back that creamy texture.
  • Freeze: You can also freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months, but they may thicken up when thawed. Reheat them with a little liquid and stir well to bring back the creamy texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 194kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 960mgPotassium: 67mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 356IUVitamin C: 0.003mgCalcium: 174mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cheese grits
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