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Ultimate Creamy Southern Cheese Grits

A close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, creamy, yellow cheese grits sitting on a wooden surface.
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A recipe for classic, rich, and creamy Southern-style cheese grits using sharp cheddar for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup stone ground grits (not instant)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 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 for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to keep the grits from sticking to the bottom.
  4. Once the grits are tender and thick, remove the pan from the heat.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, butter, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until the butter is melted and fully incorporated.
  6. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the grits are smooth and creamy.
  7. Taste and add more salt if needed. Serve immediately as a side dish or breakfast item.

Notes

  • Use stone ground or old-fashioned grits for the best texture; instant grits will not achieve this level of creaminess.
  • Shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • For richer flavor, substitute half the water with chicken or vegetable broth.

Nutrition

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