When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, comforting goodness of grits. This Southern staple has been a breakfast favorite for generations, but its versatility knows no bounds – and neither does its flavor profile! From cheesy and savory to spicy and sweet, grits are the perfect canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a long-time grits enthusiast or just discovering their charms, we’ve got 18 delicious recipes to get you started. With flavors ranging from classic Southern comfort food to bold international twists, there’s something for everyone on this list. From bacon and cheddar to roasted mushrooms and caramelized onions, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the star of the show: creamy grits.
So grab your favorite skillet or saucepan, and let’s dive into the world of creamy grits with Southern flair!
Cheesy Garlic Shrimp and Grits
This comforting dish combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits, rich cheese, and savory garlic for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy evening or brunch gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions with 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Cook garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked grits, shrimp, and cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Buttery Grits with Bacon
Warm up your taste buds with this classic Southern dish that combines creamy grits, crispy bacon, and a hint of buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the grits have absorbed most of the liquid.
2. While the grits are cooking, cook the diced bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter until melted and well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Grits: 20-25 minutes
– Bacon: 5-7 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Grits with Roasted Mushrooms
A comforting side dish that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the earthy flavor of roasted mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy grits base.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked grits, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve grits topped with roasted mushrooms and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Grits with Andouille Sausage
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty dish that combines spicy cajun grits with the smoky richness of andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt, to taste
– 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using warmed chicken broth.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and Cajun seasoning to the skillet; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir red pepper flakes into the grits.
5. Combine cooked grits with sausage mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese and chopped parsley or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Brown Sugar Grits with Pecans
Start your day off right with these rich and creamy Maple Brown Sugar Grits, topped with crunchy pecans. This comforting breakfast dish is perfect for a chilly morning or as a brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
2. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
5. Top with chopped pecans and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Loaded Grits with Cheddar, Scallions, and Sour Cream
Start your day off right with a creamy, cheesy bowl of grits loaded with caramelized scallions and tangy sour cream. This comforting breakfast dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add butter and stir until melted.
3. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Caramelize scallions by cooking them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a pinch of salt and pepper until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Fold caramelized scallions into the grits mixture.
6. Top with sour cream and season to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Grits with Spinach and Feta
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these creamy, cheesy baked grits. This recipe combines the comfort of warm grits with the flavors of wilted spinach and crumbly feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter, chopped onion, garlic, spinach, feta cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Gouda Grits with Caramelized Onions
Smoky Gouda Grits with Caramelized Onions: A rich and savory twist on classic grits, this recipe combines the creamy comfort of stone-ground grits with the deep flavors of smoky gouda cheese and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Smoked Gouda cheese (smoked to perfection for that distinctive flavor)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil, then gradually whisk in the grits.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re deep golden brown and caramelized.
4. Stir grated Smoked Gouda cheese into the cooked grits until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked grits and caramelized onions; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jalapeño Cheddar Grits with Crispy Cornbread Crumbles
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this innovative recipe that combines spicy jalapeño grits with crispy cornbread crumbles. Perfect for a flavorful twist on traditional Southern comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired level of heat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced jalapeños and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and well combined with the jalapeño mixture.
4. Add cooked grits to the cheese-jalapeño mixture and stir until smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional).
5. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread crumbles by mixing together cornbread mix, heavy cream, and beaten egg in a separate bowl. Cook according to package instructions.
6. Serve grits topped with crispy cornbread crumbles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Grits Bowl with Fried Egg and Avocado
Start your day off right with this creamy, flavorful bowl that combines the richness of grits with the runniness of a fried egg and the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Optional: chopped scallions, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 2 cups of water and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Crack in the egg and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny, about 3-4 minutes.
3. To assemble the bowl, place cooked grits at the bottom, followed by the fried egg, diced avocado, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Add optional toppings if desired (chopped scallions, crumbled feta cheese).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Grits with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of goat cheese with the comfort of grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup herbed goat cheese (chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until creamy and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Stir in butter, goat cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Grits with Pickled Red Onions
A classic Southern dish gets a tangy twist with the addition of pickled red onions. This hearty breakfast or brunch option combines tender pulled pork, creamy grits, and a burst of acidity from the onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup BBQ pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup pickled red onions (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and crumbled bacon for garnish
Pickled Red Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions with 4 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add BBQ pulled pork to the grits and stir until combined.
3. Top with pickled red onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions and crumbled bacon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin Spice Grits with Candied Walnuts
Elevate your breakfast game with this seasonal delight, where creamy pumpkin and warm spices meet nutty candied walnuts. Perfect for a cozy fall morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or non-dairy milk
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup candied walnuts, chopped (see note)
– Optional: heavy cream or half-and-half for extra creaminess
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using water or non-dairy milk.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the pumpkin mixture to cooked grits and stir until well combined.
4. Serve warm, topped with chopped candied walnuts and an optional dollop of heavy cream or half-and-half.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for grits)
Note: To make candied walnuts, simply cook 1/2 cup walnut halves in a saucepan with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water over medium heat, stirring frequently, until caramelized.
Lemon-Dill Grits with Grilled Salmon
This recipe combines the creamy comfort of grits with the vibrant flavors of lemon and dill, perfectly complemented by the rich taste of grilled salmon. The result is a delightful and refreshing breakfast or brunch dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil; gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in dill and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve warm grits topped with grilled salmon, spooning some of the lemon-dill sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp over Creamy Grits
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the savory flavor of bacon, all on top of creamy grits. It’s a Southern-inspired dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1 cup of grits
– 2 cups of water
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
4. Wrap each shrimp with a piece of cooked bacon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the shrimp for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Stir in heavy cream into the cooked grits to create a creamy consistency.
7. Serve the shrimp over the creamy grits and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smothered Chicken and Gravy Grits
This comforting dish combines tender chicken smothered in rich gravy with creamy grits, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour in heavy cream, bringing mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Serve chicken smothered in gravy over cooked grits.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramelized Banana Grits with Honey Drizzle
Start your day off right with this unique and delicious breakfast recipe that combines the comfort of grits with the natural sweetness of caramelized bananas and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or non-dairy milk
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Honey, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water or non-dairy milk.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced bananas and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Continue cooking for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked grits with the banana mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve warm, drizzled with honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Grits with Garlic Butter Shrimp
This creamy grits dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of garlic butter shrimp and fresh tomato basil. Perfect for a comforting weekend brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups fresh tomato basil (or 1 cup each of chopped tomatoes and basil)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring grits and water to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in olive oil and fresh tomato basil (or chopped tomatoes and basil). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve shrimp on top of warm grits, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a taste of Southern comfort with these 18 creamy grit recipes! From classic shrimp and grits to savory bowls and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Try Cheesy Garlic Shrimp and Grits, or indulge in Loaded Grits with Cheddar, Scallions, and Sour Cream. Spicy Cajun Grits with Andouille Sausage will add a kick, while Maple Brown Sugar Grits with Pecans offer a sweet twist. With a range of flavors and textures, these creamy grit recipes are sure to become new favorites.
