Name: Cheese Grits Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: ⅔ cup stone-ground grits (quick cooking or regular); 2 ⅔ cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 5 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 85 reviews

If you are yearning for a dish that brings comfort, rich flavor, and that irresistible creamy texture all in one bowl, this Cheese Grits Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly smooth, cheesy, and warming, it’s a Southern classic that promises to make any meal feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a cozy solo dinner, this Cheese Grits Recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite that satisfies every bite.

Ingredients You'll Need

A black cast iron skillet filled with smooth, creamy yellow polenta that has a few swirls creating soft peaks in its texture. The polenta is lightly sprinkled with chopped green herbs and black pepper. A woman's hand holds a wooden spoon partially covered with polenta on its end, resting inside the skillet. The skillet sits on a dark wooden board, which is placed on a white marbled surface. A white pepper grinder and a grey textured cloth are next to the skillet. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this Cheese Grits Recipe truly shine are a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a vital role—creating the perfect balance between creaminess, savory depth, and that rich cheese punch that makes each spoonful so memorable.

Grits (⅔ cup): Stone-ground grits are ideal for texture, but quick cooking works well for convenience without losing creaminess.

Chicken broth (2 ⅔ cups): Adds flavor depth and ensures the grits cook to a smooth, tender consistency.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Infuses the dish with luxe richness and helps create a silky mouthfeel.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the flavors from the grits to the cheese.

Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Gives a subtle spice that balances the creaminess and cheese.
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): A gentle garlic note that elevates every bite without overpowering.
Sharp cheddar cheese (5 ounces, grated): The star ingredient bringing melty, bold cheesiness that defines this recipe.

How to Make Cheese Grits Recipe

Step 1: Bring Broth, Butter, and Salt to a Boil

Start by heating the chicken broth, butter, and salt together in a deep skillet. Bringing this mixture to a boil is the foundation for perfectly cooked grits, as the hot liquid will absorb the grains evenly and impart flavor from the very beginning.

Step 2: Gradually Add Grits While Whisking

Once boiling, slowly stir in the grits, whisking constantly to keep lumps away. This careful addition ensures your grits stay smooth and creamy, creating that silky texture that’s so essential for the best Cheese Grits Recipe.

Step 3: Simmer Covered Until Tender

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover your pan, letting the grits cook as directed on the package. This slow cooking lets the grains absorb all the flavorful broth and soften perfectly without sticking or burning.

Step 4: Season with Pepper and Garlic Powder

When the grits are tender, stir in black pepper and garlic powder. These seasonings boost the savory profile and lend a subtle kick that complements the rich cheese to come.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese Until Melted

Finally, add your grated sharp cheddar, stirring until it melts completely into the grits. This is the magic moment where your dish transforms into irresistible cheesy comfort food.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your creamy, cheesy grits are now ready to be savored. Scoop them into warm bowls and take a moment to appreciate the luscious warmth and flavor that only a well-made Cheese Grits Recipe can deliver.

How to Serve Cheese Grits Recipe

A close-up view of a single layer of smooth, creamy light beige mashed potatoes in a black pan, swirled gently with a wooden spatula on the right side. The surface of the potatoes is topped with small chopped green herbs and scattered black pepper, with a slight shine from melted butter that pools in soft waves. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your Cheese Grits Recipe with fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of crispy bacon or a few sliced green onions can add delightful texture and a hint of smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.

Side Dishes

Cheese grits are wonderfully versatile alongside breakfast staples like eggs and sausage or as a comforting side for dinner dishes such as fried chicken, shrimp, or sautéed greens. Their rich flavor balances savory mains and rounds out any meal with hearty goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try shaping your finished grits into small patties and pan-frying until golden. Or layer them as a creamy base for a shrimp and grits skillet. No matter how you present it, this Cheese Grits Recipe is adaptable and always a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’ll thicken over time, so plan to add a little milk or broth when reheating to bring back that smooth creaminess.

Freezing

Cheese grits freeze well! Place portions in freezer-friendly containers and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk or broth as you warm to prevent the grits from drying out. Microwave reheating also works well if you cover the dish and stir midway through warming.

FAQs

Can I use water instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use water, but chicken broth adds a richer, more savory flavor that really makes the Cheese Grits Recipe stand out. For best taste, broth is recommended.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic and imparts a bold, tangy flavor, but feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or even a blend for a unique twist.

How do I prevent lumps in my grits?

Whisking constantly as you add grits to the boiling liquid is key. Adding grits slowly and stirring frequently while cooking will keep the texture smooth and creamy.

Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, dairy-free butter, and a vegan cheese alternative to keep that creamy, cheesy vibe while accommodating dietary needs.

What’s the difference between quick cooking and regular grits?

Quick cooking grits are ground finer and cook faster but may be slightly less textured. Regular stone-ground grits take longer but offer a heartier, more rustic bite. Either works well in this Cheese Grits Recipe depending on your time and texture preference.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese Grits Recipe is more than just a simple dish—it's an invitation to slow down and enjoy a little comfort from the heart of Southern cooking. The creamy texture, cheesy richness, and warming spices come together in a bowl that's pure joy. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this timeless classic can brighten up any meal.