The Ultimate Grits Recipe Guide (Creamy, Buttery, and Southern Approved)
If you grew up in the South, you already know that a good grits recipe is more than just breakfast — it’s comfort food, tradition, and homestyle cooking all in one bowl. Creamy grits served with butter, cheese, shrimp, bacon, or eggs are one of the most iconic Southern dishes ever made.
The secret to perfect grits is simple: slow cooking, plenty of liquid, and butter at the end. Done right, grits should be smooth, creamy, and rich — never dry or gritty.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Southern grits recipe, plus tips, variations, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Are Grits?
Table of Contents
Grits are made from ground corn, usually white or yellow corn, and are a staple in Southern cooking. They are similar to polenta but typically ground finer and cooked into a creamy porridge.
There are several types of grits:
- Stone-ground grits (best flavor)
- Quick grits
- Instant grits
- Hominy grits
- Yellow grits
- White grits
Stone-ground grits take longer to cook but have the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients for Grits Recipe
Basic Creamy Grits Ingredients
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
How to Make Grits (Step-by-Step)
- Bring water or broth to a boil in a pot.
- Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent clumping.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Stir frequently for 15–20 minutes.
- Add milk or cream and continue cooking until thick and creamy.
- Stir in butter and cheese.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Tip: Stir often so the grits don’t stick to the bottom.
Grits Recipe (Printable Style)
Creamy Southern Grits Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Bring water or broth to a boil.
- Slowly whisk in grits.
- Reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes.
- Stir frequently until thick.
- Add milk, butter, and cheese.
- Stir until creamy and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Grits Recipe
- Use chicken broth instead of water for more flavor
- Add heavy cream for extra creamy grits
- Always add butter at the end
- Stir often to prevent lumps
- Cook on low heat
- Use stone-ground grits if possible
- Add cheese for cheesy grits
- Add shrimp for shrimp and grits
Grits Variations
Cheesy Grits
Add:
- Cheddar
- Parmesan
- Gouda
- Cream cheese
Garlic Butter Grits
Add:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Extra butter
Shrimp and Grits
Top grits with:
- Cooked shrimp
- Bacon
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
- Parsley
Breakfast Grits Bowl
Top with:
- Fried eggs
- Bacon
- Sausage
- Cheese
Common Grits Mistakes
Mistake #1 – Not stirring
Grits will clump and stick if not stirred.
Mistake #2 – Cooking too fast
Low and slow makes creamy grits.
Mistake #3 – Not enough liquid
Grits should be creamy, not stiff.
Mistake #4 – Adding butter too early
Add butter at the end.
What to Serve with Grits
Grits go great with:
- Bacon
- Eggs
- Sausage
- Fried chicken
- Shrimp
- Catfish
- Pulled pork
- Collard greens
- Biscuits
How to Store Leftover Grits
Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat:
- Add milk or water
- Heat slowly
- Stir until creamy again
More Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this creamy grits recipe, there are plenty more cozy and satisfying dishes waiting for you on RecipesMania. From cheesy pasta favorites to hearty Southern-style meals and homemade baked treats, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, family breakfasts, and comfort food cravings. Browse a few reader favorites below and discover your next homemade classic.
Final Thoughts on This Grits Recipe
A good grits recipe is simple, affordable, and incredibly comforting. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dinner, or alongside shrimp, grits are one of the most versatile Southern foods you can make.
Once you learn the basic recipe, you can customize grits with cheese, bacon, shrimp, garlic, or herbs to create dozens of different meals.
