The Best Southern Cheese Grits
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The Best Southern Cheese Grits
Description
This recipe for The Best Southern Cheese Grits begins by boiling water with butter and salt, then adding grits while whisking to prevent lumps. The grits simmer covered until tender as per package instructions. After cooking, black pepper and garlic powder are stirred in for seasoning, followed by sharp cheddar cheese that melts into the hot grits creating a creamy and flavorful texture.
The final dish is smooth and rich, with a mild garlic undertone balanced by the sharpness of cheddar cheese. The grits have a comforting, thick consistency that makes them suitable as a hearty accompaniment for breakfast or dinner. The cooking approach avoids excessive stirring and maintains proper simmering to achieve the right texture.
Serve these cheese grits as a base for savory toppings or alongside meats and vegetables for a Southern-inspired meal. They reheat well with added water to restore creaminess and should be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheating in the microwave at reduced power or slowly on the stove while stirring prevents sticking and helps regain smoothness. The recipe can use any type of grits including stone-ground, quick-cooking, or regular, with timing adjusted accordingly.
Ingredients
- 2 ⅔ cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅔ cup grits stone-ground, quick cooking, or regular
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 5 ounces cheddar cheese grated, sharp
Instructions
- Bring the water, butter and salt to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Add the grits to the boiling water using a whisk.
- Cover the pot, lower the heat to a simmer and cook the grits according to the package directions.
- When the grits are done, stir in the black pepper and garlic powder.
- Add the cheese and stir until blended.
Notes
- Store leftover cheese grits tightly covered in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days to retain moisture and freshness.
- Reheat the grits in the microwave at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds, or gently reheat over low heat with a splash of water, stirring often to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 280 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 | |
| Calories | 280kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Protein | 11g | 22% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 11g | 55% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 52mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 860mg | 36% |
| Potassium | 80mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 531IU | 11% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 265mg | 27% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.