Ultimate Creamy Southern Cheese Grits
Make rich, comforting Southern Cheese Grits using sharp cheddar and heavy cream for an authentic, smooth texture. This stovetop recipe is perfect as a savory side dish or a hearty breakfast.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 35 min
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Combine water and milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat.
- Slowly whisk in the grits and salt. Reduce the heat to low.
- Cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the grits are thick and tender. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash more water or milk.
- Stir in the heavy cream and butter until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the grits are smooth and creamy.
- Season with black pepper. Taste and add more salt if needed. Serve immediately as a savory side dish or breakfast staple.
Notes
- Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
- For extra richness, substitute half of the water with chicken or vegetable broth.
- If you prefer a less thick texture, increase the initial water/milk ratio slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 750
- Fat: 40
- Saturated Fat: 24
- Unsaturated Fat: 16
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 18
- Cholesterol: 110