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Learn how to make Creamy Southern Cheese Grits—whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these grits are perfect for any meal! With a dash of spices and loads of melty cheddar, this recipe is all about that rich, creamy goodness. Plus, I’m sharing my top tips for the best grits ever! Completely Gluten-free + Vegan Option.
Grits are one of those cozy Southern staples—right up there with crispy oven-fried chicken. Whether you’re spooning them under juicy shrimp or serving them up hot for breakfast, you just can’t beat that creamy, cheesy, comforting goodness.
This creamy Southern cheese grits recipe is the one my family makes on repeat, and I think you’ll fall in love with it too. These grits are extra cheesy, super easy to make, and full of that rich, Southern flavor we all love. And the best part? They go with everything—from hearty dinners to lazy weekend brunch.
Once you’ve got the basics down, there are so many fun ways to switch things up. If you're in the mood to explore, try my Creamy Southern Sweet Potato Grits with Chickpeas or go bold with Tuscan 'Marry Me' Shrimp + Grits. Love a kick? My Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits and Nashville Hot Cauliflower + Kale Grits are definitely worth a spot on your menu!
Grits are a classic Southern dish, basically creamy ground corn goodness—kind of like porridge but Southern-style. They're warm, cozy, and super versatile—perfect with butter, cheese, or topped with shrimp if you’re feeling fancy. Whether you have them for breakfast or dinner, grits are total comfort food at its finest.
Here's what you need to make these creamy, rich grits at home:
Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Creamy Southern Cheese Grits! Everything from my fave skillet, pots, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!
Heat + Soak Grits! Much like cashews, this allows grits to soften, cook faster, and become more creamy.
Boil grits for 20-30 minutes uncovered, but make sure to stir regularly to avoid lumps.
Add creaminess! It's all about adding milk, water, + heavy cream with cheese for the ultimate creaminess.
Season! Don't be afraid to season your girts. It amplifies the flavors more.
Low + slow is always best. This allows the grits to slowly release their starches for a decadent, silky texture.
Basically, because polenta and grits are both made from ground corn, you can use them interchangeably. However, grits are higher in starch than polenta, so if you do choose to substitute in polenta for grits, you won't have to stir it as frequently, but it won't cook up as creamy as grits..
Overall, oats are higher in calories, but they also contain more fiber and protein than grits, making them a much better choice if you're looking to lose weight. However, grits do provide fewer calories overall which may be beneficial for those with diabetes, etc.
Because grits are a fork food, they are often enjoyed on a plate with a type of protein like eggs, meat, or seafood. Oftentimes, grits are a part of a Southerner's breakfast routine which might consist of eggs, bacon, sausage, etc. along with grits and perhaps a biscuit. In general, Southerners enjoy grits as a savory side dish to other foods for a complete meal.
Grits with cheese make an excellent foundation for any number of dishes. At my house, we love to eat these creamy cheddar grits with:
Other topping ideas include:
To change up the flavors of this southern grits recipe or if you don't have all of the ingredients on this list, here are a few simple swaps:
Yes! Grits are made from corn, so this recipe is fully gluten-free.
Leftovers can be kept in an air-tight container (separately) in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Re-heat the girts or polenta over the stovetop or in a microwave when ready to serve. You may need to add a bit of milk to make things creamy again, but that is easily achieved as you whisk.
Of course! All ingredients can be made and individually stored as meal prep (up to 2 days prior) and assembled when ready to serve.
According to research, as a whole grain, grits provides several antioxidants that help mitigate cellular damage from free radicals + unstable atoms in the body. Two of the antioxidants found in grits, lutein and zeaxanthin, are known to contribute to better vision and eye health, protecting against age-related eye diseases
To make this grits recipe dairy-free, use these swaps:
Use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter
Swap the cream for coconut milk (full-fat)
Use vegan cheese instead of cheddar
If you tried this Creamy Southern Cheese Grits recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!
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How to Make Creamy Southern Cheese Grits.
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The flavor was awesome!!!
I made this today for breakfast with eggs. It was very tasty. Would be excellent with shrimp or fish.
Hi Tony, I'm SO glad that you enjoyed these grits. Thanks so much for giving it a try! 🙂
Such a delicious recipe! So thick and creamy, and the spice ratio was perfect. I used Costco’s Mexican Cheese Blend, and it tasted great. Will definitely be making this again!
Hi Gracie! WOW! I'm so glad that you enjoyed these grits! Definitely a fave in my house! Thanks so much for giving it a try! 🙂
These grits were absolutely perfect! They've become my go-to recipe.
I love grits but I love cheesy grits more!! This is savory and delicious!
I made these grits with dinner last night and omg were they delicious! Thanks so much for sharing the recipe!
I remember the first time I had grits was in Florida while on vacation with my mom. I was an instant fan and now everytime I have grits I think of my mom. Love this cheesy version...so delicious and perfect with an array of dishes.
I've never made grits before. I didn't grow up with them but want to make them for a friend. Thanks for the recipe. Looks delicous!