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Ultimate Creamy Southern Cheese Grits

A close-up of a creamy bowl of rich, yellow cheese grits, topped with melted butter and a sprinkle of paprika.
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Learn the secrets to making rich, creamy Southern cheese grits using sharp cheddar cheese. This stovetop recipe delivers a smooth, comforting texture perfect for breakfast or as a savory side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup stone ground grits
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Bring the water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
  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. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of water or milk.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
  6. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is melted and smooth before adding the next. This step is key for creamy cheese grits.
  7. Stir in the black pepper. Taste and add more salt if needed.
  8. Serve your buttery grits with cheese immediately as a hearty breakfast or cheesy side dish.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use stone ground grits instead of instant grits.
  • Shred your own sharp cheddar cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
  • If you want a richer flavor, substitute half of the water with chicken or vegetable broth.
  • This recipe makes excellent comfort food grits for dinner when paired with greens or smoked sausage.

Nutrition

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