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Southern Cheese Grits Recipe

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4.1 from 53 reviews

Southern Cheese Grits is a creamy, comforting dish made from stone-ground grits cooked with water, chicken bouillon, and milk, then enriched with butter and sharp cheddar cheese. This classic Southern recipe offers a rich and cheesy flavor, perfect as a hearty breakfast or a savory side dish.

Ingredients

Liquid Base

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 chicken bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon)
  • 2 cups milk, warmed

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup stone ground grits
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broth: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil with the chicken bouillon cube dissolved in it, creating a flavorful broth for the grits.
  2. Add the grits: Slowly stir in 1 cup of stone ground grits into the boiling broth to avoid lumps, reduce heat to low, and allow it to simmer gently.
  3. Cook the grits: Simmer the grits uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The grits will absorb the liquid and become creamy.
  4. Add warmed milk: Gradually stir in 2 cups of warmed milk to the grits to enhance creaminess, continuing to cook on low heat for another 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  5. Incorporate butter and cheese: Stir in 4 tablespoons of butter until melted and fully combined. Then add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the grits are smooth and cheesy.
  6. Serve warm: Remove from heat and serve the Southern Cheese Grits immediately as a delicious side or a comforting base for your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and authentic flavor.
  • Keep stirring occasionally to avoid lumps and sticking at the bottom of the pan.
  • Adjust cheese amount to taste, adding more for extra cheesiness.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.