Few breakfast dishes feel as comforting as a warm bowl of grits with cheese. Smooth, creamy, and rich, this Southern classic is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you serve it plain or alongside eggs, sausage, or shrimp, cheese grits are quick to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Perfect for cozy mornings or hearty brunches, this dish brings warmth and flavor to your table.
The secret to creamy, flavorful grits lies in slow cooking and the right liquid ratio. Cooking grits in milk and water creates a rich, velvety texture. Adding butter enhances smoothness, while melting cheese at the end adds depth and creaminess. Consequently, the result is a dish that’s both silky and indulgent — pure comfort in a bowl.
1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant)
3 cups water
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Black pepper to taste
Optional: chopped chives or green onions for garnish
In a medium saucepan, bring water, milk, and salt to a gentle boil.
Slowly whisk in the grits, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Pro Tip: Pour grits in gradually while whisking to keep the texture smooth.
Reduce the heat to low and cover.
Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick and creamy.
Add a splash of milk if the mixture becomes too thick.
Stir in butter until melted and fully combined.
Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the grits.
Tip: Use sharp cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for extra richness.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Spoon into serving bowls and top with extra cheese or a pat of butter.
Garnish with chopped chives or green onions for color and freshness.
Presentation Idea: Serve in small cast iron bowls for a rustic, Southern-style breakfast presentation.
Spicy Grits: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Garlic Cheese Grits: Stir in roasted garlic or a touch of garlic powder.
Loaded Grits: Top with crumbled bacon, green onions, or a fried egg.
Shrimp & Grits: Pair with sautéed shrimp for a classic Southern main dish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Avoid microwaving for long periods; short bursts with stirring work best.
Using instant grits: They lack flavor and texture; choose stone-ground for best results.
Not stirring enough: Grits can clump easily; stir frequently for smooth texture.
Adding cheese too early: Wait until grits are cooked, or the cheese may separate.
Over-salting: Cheese already adds saltiness, so taste before adding more.
Combines milk and water for perfect creaminess.
Butter and cheese create rich, smooth texture.
Simple ingredients, big comfort-food flavor.
Versatile base for endless variations.
Quick and beginner-friendly — ready in under 30 minutes.
Grits with cheese is a comforting, classic breakfast dish that never disappoints. Its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and warmth make it perfect for slow mornings or Southern-inspired brunches. Once you try this simple yet rich recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again — whether as a side or the star of your breakfast table.