Creamy Southern Grits with Sharp Cheddar and Crispy Bacon

This grits recipe is pure Southern comfort! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy bacon, it's an easy upgrade from plain grits. Ready in 40 minutes!

Recipe Introduction

You know, sometimes you just crave that one thing. for me, it's a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness. i'm talking about the ultimate grits recipe , of course! grit food has such a diverse heritage, it's amazing what can be done with such simple ingredients.

Quick Hook

Ever wonder where this southern grits staple comes from? originally an indigenous dish, this grits recipe now makes for the ultimate creamy indulgence.

Expect sharp cheddar, and salty bacon, a flavour explosion that'll have you making this best grits recipe over and over again.

Brief Overview

Southern grits are practically a cultural icon, tracing their roots back to native american cuisine. this easy grits recipe is beginner-friendly, takes about 40 minutes total, and yields 4 servings.

Grits breakfast , lunch, or dinner. this dish is suitable for a comforting breakfast or as a side at dinner.

Main Benefits

The best part? this homemade grits recipe isn't just delicious, it's also packed with goodness from the milk and corn.

It makes any occasion special, whether it’s a lazy sunday brunch or a cosy weeknight dinner. this creamy grits recipe is special because it strikes that perfect balance between comforting tradition and delicious, updated flavours.

It's a best cheese grits recipe with a twist!

Ready to get cooking? we'll start with the ingredients for the best grits you've ever tasted. now, let's chat about what goes into these beauties before we get down to the actual method.

Alright, let's talk grits recipe ! this ain't just any grits recipe . this is the grits recipe that'll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about grit food .

Honestly, i used to think grits breakfast were kinda boring. boy, was i wrong. this easy grits recipe changed my life.

I'm not kidding.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Okay, first things first: the ingredients. This is where the magic happens. We're talking about getting that perfect creamy grits recipe texture, so quality is key.

• Water: 4 cups (946ml). Good ol' H2O!
• Whole Milk: 1 cup (237ml). This is your secret weapon for creamy cheese grits . Don't skimp!
• Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g). Salt is your flavor bestie.
• Stone-Ground Grits: 1 cup (170g). I cannot stress this enough: use stone-ground white corn grits recipe . It makes all the difference. Avoid instant quick grits like the plague!
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g), cubed. Trust me.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (113g), shredded. Pre-shredded is fine, but freshly shredded melts better.
• Thick-Cut Bacon: 6 slices. Go for the good stuff. Black Pepper: To taste, freshly ground for maximum flavor

Seasoning Notes

Spice things up, y'all! Southern grits are all about building layers of flavor.

• Essential Spice Combo: Salt and Pepper. I know, obvious. But don't underestimate the power of perfectly seasoned savory grits .
• Flavor Enhancers: A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a kick. A dash of hot sauce also works wonders. If you are feeling daring try Sugar Grits .
• Quick Subs: No cheddar? Asiago cheese grits are amazing. Or even a bit of Gruyere.

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple, buttercup. No need for fancy gadgets.

• Saucepan: Medium-sized, heavy-bottomed. Crucial to prevent sticking!
• Whisk: For smooth, lump-free grits.
• Skillet: For crispy bacon.
• Colander: To drain the bacon.

Honestly? that’s it. you probably already have most of this stuff. the best grits are about technique, not fancy equipment.

Now let's get cooking. this is going to be the best grits recipe of your life. i promise you! how to make grits has never been this exciting.

Ready to transform these simple ingredients into some mind-blowing southern cheese grits ? you'll make grits cheese in no time!

Okay, let's transform this detailed outline into a proper blog post section! Get ready for some Southern comfort food, ya'll.

Gettin' Down with Grits: The Ultimate Creamy Cheese and Bacon Grits Recipe

Listen up, buttercups! we're diving headfirst into the world of grits . not just any grits, mind you. we're talking about the best grits recipe you'll ever lay your spoon on.

Forget those bland, watery excuses for grit food you might have encountered. this here is southern grits elevated to a whole new level.

Honestly, i'm drooling just thinking about it! we're making creamy, cheesy, bacon-y goodness, y'all. trust me on this.

Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place

First things first: let's get organised. This is the chef-y term "mise en place". It is just a fancy French saying for having everything ready.

• Grab 4 cups (946ml) water , 1 cup (237ml) whole milk , 1 teaspoon (5g) kosher salt , 1 cup (170g) stone-ground grits , 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter , 1 cup (113g) sharp cheddar cheese , 6 slices thick-cut bacon. That's the essentials.
• Chop your bacon and shred your cheddar.
• Having everything prepped saves time later. It really does.

How To Make Grits: Step-by-Step to Creamy Perfection

Alright, now for the magic. This is where our easy grits recipe really comes alive.

1. Fry the bacon. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Don't burn it! Reserve a tablespoon of the bacon grease , it is liquid gold. Crumble the rest.
2. Liquid time. In a medium saucepan, mix water, milk, and salt . Crank the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil.
3. Whisk like you mean it. Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the grits . Whisk constantly so you don't end up with lumpy homemade grits .
4. Simmer for 20- 25 minutes , stirring, until thick. Don't walk away or else you’ll end up with stuck-on grits !
5. Cheese, please! Pull from the heat and stir in the butter and cheddar . Stir until melted and smooth. Season with pepper.
6. Top with crumbled bacon and a drizzle of the reserved bacon grease.
7. Enjoy your grits breakfast !

Pro Tips for Grits Nirvana

Listen up! I've learned some things making southern cheesy grits over the years.

• Always use stone-ground grits . Don't be tempted by quick grits . Trust me, the texture is worth the wait.
• Stir! This is vital to avoid clumps.
• Want to make asiago cheese grits or cheddar cheese grits ? Swap the cheese!

Honestly, this grits recipe is like a hug in a bowl. the creamy cheese grits with the salty bacon... oh my gosh! it's divine.

This is truly the best cheese grits recipe out there. enjoy.

Recipe Notes

Listen, we’re not just throwing ingredients together here. we are crafting a grits recipe , and the little details matter .

These notes are like the director’s cut – the extra bits that elevate it from good to amazing . so, let’s get into it, shall we?

Serving Suggestions: Plate It Like You Mean It!

Honestly, presentation does matter. i mean, nobody wants a sad pile of grit food on a plate. think rustic chic.

A nice bowl, a sprinkle of extra cheddar, maybe a sprig of parsley if you're feeling fancy. bam! suddenly, you're a chef.

Sides? oh my gosh, the possibilities! southern grits practically beg for company. think fried green tomatoes, collard greens, or even just a perfectly fried egg.

For drinks, iced tea or a strong coffee are classic choices.

Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh

Leftover creamy cheese grits ? don’t even sweat it. pop them in an airtight container and into the fridge. they'll be good for about 3-4 days.

Reheating is easy! a splash of milk and a quick zap in the microwave, or a gentle simmer on the stovetop works great.

Freezing? Hmmm, honestly, the texture can change a bit. But, if you must, freeze in individual portions. Reheat slowly and be prepared to add extra liquid to bring back that creamy texture.

Variations: Your Grit Souffle Adventure Awaits!

This easy grits recipe is just a starting point. want to switch things up? go wild! for a vegetarian twist, swap the bacon for roasted veggies and use vegetable broth.

Dietary? skip the cheese for dairy-free.

Seasonal swaps? corn season calls for using the freshest white corn grits recipe . and oh, i love to toss in some roasted butternut squash in the fall.

Speaking of cheese, try it with asiago cheese grits , so delicious!

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Okay, let’s be real. this isn’t health food. but, grits recipe creamy are surprisingly filling. they are a good source of carbs for energy.

And, honestly, a little bit of comfort food is good for the soul.

Key benefits? Well, if you are using rice grits , they are naturally gluten-free. And with the right cheese, you get protein, and of course, that blissful moment of pure comfort.

Alright, there you have it! now you know everything you need to make a killer pot of cheddar cheese grits , or southern cheese grits .

Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. go on! get those pots and pans out, i know you can make the best grits recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the secret to making truly creamy grits? I've had some that tasted like wallpaper paste!

Ah, the dreaded wallpaper paste grits! The key is using stone-ground grits (not instant!), cooking them low and slow with plenty of liquid (milk and water are a great combo), and stirring frequently to prevent sticking. It's a bit like watching paint dry, but trust me, the creamy, dreamy result is totally worth it. Think of it as a culinary slow burn!

Can I make this grits recipe ahead of time? I'm hosting a brunch and want to get as much done as possible beforehand.

Absolutely! Grits are great for making ahead. Cook them as directed, then transfer to a greased baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add a splash of milk or water to loosen them up and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, stirring occasionally. A little extra butter never hurt anyone either – it’ll bring back that fresh-cooked flavour.

I'm vegetarian. How can I adapt this grits recipe to be meat-free without sacrificing flavour?

No worries, going veggie with grits is a doddle! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the grits. To add flavour depth, consider roasting some vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or butternut squash and stirring them into the finished grits. You could even top it with a fried egg for a bit of extra protein and richness.

What are some good cheese substitutions if I don't have sharp cheddar for this grits recipe?

Sharp cheddar is fantastic, but other cheeses can work wonders too! Gruyere adds a nutty flavour, Monterey Jack offers a milder, melty goodness, and Parmesan brings a salty, savoury note. Experiment to find your favourite! Just avoid anything too strong or overpowering; you want the cheese to complement the grits, not take over the whole show.

How do I store leftover cheesy grits, and how long will they last in the fridge?

Store your leftover cheesy grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll typically last for 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little milk or water to restore their creamy consistency, as they tend to thicken upon cooling. Give them a good stir while reheating to ensure they're smooth and evenly heated through. Think of it as giving them a new lease on life!

Are grits healthy? I'm trying to watch my carb intake.

Grits can be part of a balanced diet! Stone-ground grits are a good source of complex carbohydrates. However, this recipe also includes cheese and butter, which add fat and calories. To make it healthier, consider using skim milk, reducing the amount of cheese and butter, and adding lots of veggies. Portion control is key, as with any delicious comfort food – everything in moderation, like a good cuppa!

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