Grits with Butter and Cheese

by

Here’s your full, rich, and detailed recipe for creamy, comforting Grits with Butter and Cheese 🧈🧀

🥣 Grits with Butter and Cheese

🌟 Introduction

Grits with butter and cheese is a warm, creamy Southern comfort dish that’s simple yet deeply satisfying. Made from ground corn and slow-cooked to a silky texture, grits become incredibly rich when combined with butter and melted cheese. Whether served at breakfast, brunch, or as a savory side, this dish is pure comfort in every bite.

🧾 Ingredients

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits (or quick grits)
  • 4 cups water (or 2 cups water + 2 cups milk for extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar is classic, but any melting cheese works)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne

🍳 Instructions

1. Boil the Liquid

In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or water + milk) to a gentle boil. Add salt.

2. Add the Grits

Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent lumps from forming.

3. Cook Low and Slow

Reduce heat to low and cook:

  • Stone-ground grits: 20–30 minutes
  • Quick grits: 5–7 minutes
    Stir frequently to avoid sticking.

4. Add Butter & Cheese

Once thick and creamy:

  • Stir in butter until melted
  • Add cheese gradually, mixing until smooth

5. Season & Serve

Add black pepper and any optional spices. Serve warm and creamy.

🔥 Cooking Methods

1. Classic Stovetop (Best Flavor)

Slow cooking allows the grits to fully absorb liquid and develop a rich texture.

2. Creamy Method (Milk-Based)

Using milk instead of water gives a softer, richer, almost risotto-like finish.

3. Quick Method

Use quick grits when short on time, though flavor is slightly milder.

📜 History of Grits

Grits have deep roots in Native American cuisine, where ground corn was a staple food. Indigenous tribes shared this preparation method with early European settlers, especially in the Southern United States. Over time, grits became a cornerstone of Southern cooking, evolving into dishes like shrimp and grits and cheesy breakfast bowls.

🧪 Formation (How It Comes Together)

  • The starch in the corn slowly thickens as it cooks
  • Butter adds richness and smooth texture
  • Cheese melts into the mixture, creating a creamy, velvety consistency
  • Stirring helps emulsify everything into one cohesive dish

❤️ Why People Love It (Lovers of Grits)

  • Comfort food fans adore its warm, soothing texture
  • Cheese lovers enjoy the rich, melty flavor
  • Busy cooks appreciate its simplicity
  • It pairs well with eggs, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables

🍽️ Serving Ideas

  • Top with a fried or poached egg 🍳
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp
  • Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor
  • Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach

🧾 Conclusion

Grits with butter and cheese is a timeless dish that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you keep it classic or dress it up, this creamy bowl delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction every single time.

If you want, I can turn this into a baked cheesy grits casserole or a restaurant-style shrimp & grits version 😍

Leave a Comment