Print

Ultimate Creamy Southern Cheese Grits with Sharp Cheddar

A close-up of a white bowl filled with fluffy, bright yellow, creamy cheese grits sitting on a wooden surface.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make rich, creamy Southern-style cheese grits on the stovetop using sharp cheddar cheese. This easy recipe yields a comforting side dish perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

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 30 to 40 minutes, or until the grits are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the grits are smooth and creamy.
  6. Taste and add more salt if needed. Serve immediately as a Southern side dish or breakfast main.

Notes

  • Use stone-ground or old-fashioned grits for the best texture; instant grits will cook faster but lack the proper creamy consistency.
  • Shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • For extra richness, substitute half of the water with chicken or vegetable broth.

Nutrition

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