Description
This classic Southern-style grits recipe delivers a creamy, comforting dish made from stone-ground grits simmered to perfection on the stovetop. Enhanced with butter and optionally richened with cheddar cheese and heavy cream, these grits make a perfect side dish for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Boil water and salt: Bring 4 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Incorporate grits: Slowly whisk the 1 cup stone-ground grits into the boiling water, taking care to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low immediately after adding the grits.
- Simmer and stir: Let the grits simmer uncovered on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping and sticking to the pan, until the mixture is thick and creamy.
- Add butter: Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until fully melted and incorporated to enhance creaminess.
- Optional enrichments: For a richer flavor, mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup heavy cream at this stage, stirring until smooth.
- Serve hot: Remove from heat and serve the grits immediately while warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, substitute half of the water with milk or broth.
- Grits can be prepared ahead of time and reheated with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.
- Add cooked bacon, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables to create a heartier dish.
