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Ultimate Creamy Southern Cheese Grits

Close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy, bright yellow cheese grits, showing melted butter on top.
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Make rich, comforting Southern cheese grits using sharp cheddar and heavy cream. This stovetop recipe delivers a smooth texture perfect for breakfast or as a savory side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup stone ground grits
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra melt)

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, stirring every 5 minutes, until the grits are thick and tender. This usually takes 25 to 35 minutes for stone ground grits.
  4. Once the grits reach your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and butter until fully melted and incorporated.
  6. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, if using. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the grits are smooth and creamy.
  7. Taste the grits and add black pepper. Add more salt if needed.
  8. Serve your rich and buttery grits immediately as a comfort food side dish or for breakfast.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, shred your own sharp cheddar cheese instead of using pre-shredded bags, which contain anti-caking agents that affect melt.
  • If you prefer a quicker version, use quick-cooking grits, reducing the cook time to about 5 to 7 minutes.
  • This recipe makes a great base for shrimp and grits; add cooked shrimp at the end.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/creamy-southern-cheese-grits-recipe/