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The Ultimate Creamy Southern Cheese Grits Recipe

A close-up of creamy cheese grits served in a white bowl, generously topped with shredded cheddar cheese.

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Make the best creamy Southern cheese grits using heavy cream and sharp cheddar. This recipe delivers rich, savory flavor perfect for breakfast or as an ultimate southern side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low.
  2. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to keep the grits from sticking to the bottom.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Continue to cook, uncovered, for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely.
  5. Add 1 1/2 cups of the sharp cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the grits are smooth and creamy.
  6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Transfer the creamy cheese grits to a serving bowl. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Serve immediately as a savory cheddar grits side dish or for breakfast.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use stone-ground grits rather than quick-cooking grits.
  • Shred your own cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • If the grits become too thick upon standing, stir in a splash of milk or cream to restore the desired consistency.

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