Grits – the quintessential Southern comfort food. Whether you like them smooth and creamy, or chunky and rustic, there’s no denying the appeal of a warm, savory bowl of grits on a chilly evening. And when you add in some rich and creamy elements, like cheese, cream, or even pulled pork, you’ve got yourself a match made in heaven.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 deliciously creamy grits recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort food dishes like cheesy shrimp and grits casserole, to more adventurous options like jalapeño cornbread grits casserole and spicy Cajun grits with Andouille sausage, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So grab your apron, fire up the stovetop or oven, and get ready to dive into a world of creamy, dreamy goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these 20 creamy grits recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Casserole
This casserole combines the classic Lowcountry dish of shrimp and grits with a creamy, cheesy twist. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked grits
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, onion, and garlic; cook until pink and tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked grits, shrimp mixture, and flour-paprika mixture.
6. Top with cheesy mixture and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern-Style Smoked Sausage Grits
Start your day off right with this hearty, comforting dish that combines the richness of smoked sausage with the creamy goodness of grits. This classic Southern recipe is a staple for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a large skillet, cook sliced sausage over medium-high heat, browning on both sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Stir butter into cooked grits until melted. Add grated cheese and stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked sausage to the grits mixture and stir until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Grits with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creamy, savory dish that combines the comforting warmth of grits with the earthy flavors of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and red bell peppers)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are creamy.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir Parmesan cheese into the garlic mixture until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked grits and Parmesan-garlic mixture. Serve with roasted vegetables on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Grits with Andouille Sausage
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic grits! This Spicy Cajun recipe combines creamy grits with spicy sausage and the perfect blend of herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 slices Andouille sausage, cooked and sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
4. Stir cooked grits into the sausage mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4
Enjoy your spicy Cajun grits with Andouille sausage!
Bacon and Cheddar Grits Bake
A creamy, cheesy twist on traditional grits, this recipe is perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
3. In a skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Stir the butter into the cooked grits until melted. Add the grated cheddar cheese and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the grits mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the crispy bacon and additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Loaded Grits with Pulled Pork
A comforting Southern-inspired dish that combines creamy grits with tender pulled pork, crispy bacon, and a tangy kick from cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup pulled pork
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. Stir in butter until melted. Add pulled pork, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Grits
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Grits: A Southern-inspired breakfast or brunch dish that combines rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and thyme with comforting grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold cooked grits into the skillet with mushroom mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheddar cheese and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jalapeño Cornbread Grits Casserole
This Jalapeño Cornbread Grits Casserole combines the warmth of cornbread with the creaminess of grits, all wrapped up in a spicy package. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions. Stir in melted butter, diced jalapeño, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer cooked grits, cornbread mixture, and shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Grits Skillet
A hearty, one-pan meal that combines the comfort of creamy grits with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Stir in 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides (5-6 minutes). Transfer chicken to a plate.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil, then pour in cooked grits. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the grits.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Savory Grits with Collard Greens and Ham
Savory Grits with Collard Greens and Ham: A Southern Twist on Comfort Food
This hearty dish combines creamy grits with the earthy flavor of collard greens, crispy bacon, and salty ham. Perfect for a cozy brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups fresh collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ounces diced ham (such as prosciutto or country ham)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan, gradually whisking in grits.
2. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a large skillet, sauté bacon until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add olive oil, collard greens, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the same skillet. Cook until greens are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir cooked grits with butter, then add ham, crumbled bacon, and cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Bell Peppers
A spicy twist on a classic Southern dish, this recipe combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and crunchy bell peppers in a bold Cajun seasoning blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the shrimp and bell peppers over the cooked grits.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Grits with Blackened Catfish
This Southern-inspired dish combines creamy grits with the bold flavors of blackened catfish, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The smoky grits provide a comforting base for the spicy catfish, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions with 4 cups of water, butter, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish fillets and sprinkle with blackening seasoning.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve the blackened catfish on top of the smoky grits.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Grits with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your brunch game with this flavorful combination of creamy herbed grits and juicy grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth, divided
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy.
3. Stir in butter, parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve grilled chicken on top of herbed grits.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Grits with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A comforting Southern classic gets a flavorful boost from wilted spinach and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Add spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Grits with Chorizo and Eggs
Start your day off right with this bold and flavorful breakfast dish that combines the creaminess of grits with the spicy kick of chorizo and the richness of scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. While the grits are cooking, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with the chorizo until cooked through.
4. Stir the smoked paprika into the grits and add the chorizo and egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp over Creamy Grits
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with this zesty and comforting dish. Succulent shrimp, infused with the warmth of lemon butter, sit atop a bed of creamy grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Serve the shrimp over creamy grits and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Grits with Fried Eggs and Avocado
A classic Southern dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of creamy avocado and a runny fried egg. This hearty breakfast or brunch option is sure to satisfy your morning cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, shredded cheddar cheese, or crumbled bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Bring water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Stir in butter until melted.
3. Fry eggs in olive oil over medium-high heat until whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
4. Serve fried eggs on top of warm grits, topped with diced avocado.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Grits Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy goodness of grits, perfect for a cozy night in. A delicious twist on traditional Southern sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or crispy bacon for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine grits and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until creamy.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes with butter, heavy cream, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer grits, sweet potato mixture, and grated cheese in that order.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or crispy bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Grits with Braised Short Ribs
A comforting Southern-inspired dish that pairs tender short ribs with creamy grits, perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked short ribs with the warmth of stone-ground grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown short ribs in batches, then remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add browned short ribs back into the pot.
5. Pour in chicken broth, cover, and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
6. Meanwhile, cook grits according to package instructions. Stir in butter until melted.
7. Serve braised short ribs over savory grits.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (braising) + 20 minutes (cooking grits)
Buffalo Chicken Grits Bowl
Take your breakfast or brunch game to the next level with this creamy, spicy, and satisfying bowl. Crunchy chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and smooth grits come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions, crumbled bacon, or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Add butter and stir until melted.
2. In a separate pan, combine chicken and buffalo sauce. Cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine cooked grits, shredded cheese, and buffalo chicken in a bowl.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with desired toppings (optional).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these creamy grits recipes! From classic comfort food to bold and spicy twists, there’s something for everyone. Try Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Casserole, Southern-Style Smoked Sausage Grits, or Spicy Cajun Grits with Andouille Sausage. Or go for a savory option like Loaded Grits with Pulled Pork or Savory Grits with Collard Greens and Ham. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, spicy, or smoky, these 20 recipes are sure to please.