My Mom's Cheese Grits Recipe

This rich Southern recipe combines creamy grits with plenty of sharp cheddar, butter and cream for the ultimate comfort food side dish. Simple ingredients but incredible flavor.

Featured in Vegetable and Grain Sides.

Fatiha
Updated on Sun, 05 Jan 2025 01:30:42 GMT
A bowl of creamy yellow grits topped with shredded cheese, green onions, and a sprinkle of paprika. Pin it
A bowl of creamy yellow grits topped with shredded cheese, green onions, and a sprinkle of paprika. | zestplate.com

Easy Homemade Mom's Amazing Cheese Grits

Let me share my mom's simple but incredible cheese grits recipe that's been in our family for generations. These easy homemade grits are pure Southern comfort with plenty of butter rich cream and lots of cheese. I love making this recipe for special brunches or anytime we need something extra cozy and delicious. Once you try these homemade grits you'll understand why they're famous in our family.

Why You'll Love This Easy Recipe

This simple homemade recipe is special because:

  • The cream makes them incredibly smooth and rich
  • A whole pound of cheese creates amazing flavor
  • It's a true Southern recipe passed down with love
  • Works perfectly for any meal of the day

Easy Ingredients for Homemade Cheese Grits

  • Grits: Regular dry grits give us that perfect texture.
  • Butter: A full stick makes these grits extra special.
  • Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my mom's secret weapon.
  • Heavy Cream: Makes everything silky smooth.
  • Salt: Just enough to make the flavors pop.
  • Water: Combines with cream for perfect cooking.

Easy Step-by-Step Instructions

Perfect Liquid Preparation
Begin by combining your water and cream in a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat - you'll see small bubbles forming around the edges. Don't rush this step, as the right temperature ensures your grits will cook evenly and absorb all that creamy goodness.
Master the Grits Technique
Now comes the important part - slowly stream in your grits while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures every grain gets properly hydrated. Reduce the heat to low and keep stirring regularly for about 20-25 minutes. You'll watch them transform from grainy to silky smooth. They should be thick enough that your whisk leaves trails in the mixture.
Add the Rich Ingredients
Once your grits are thick and creamy, it's time to make them luxurious. Add your butter piece by piece, letting each pat melt completely before adding the next. Then start incorporating your cheese gradually, stirring until each addition is fully melted and incorporated. This slow process creates that perfectly smooth, velvety texture we're looking for.
Final Seasoning and Service
Take a moment to taste and adjust your seasoning. Add salt gradually, stirring and tasting between additions - remember you can always add more but you can't take it away. Once it's perfect, serve immediately while the grits are hot and at their creamiest. For extra indulgence, top with a small pat of butter that melts into golden pools on top.

Tips for Easy Success

  • Use Real Cream: This makes all the difference in this simple recipe.
  • Keep Whisking: Smooth grits come from constant attention.
  • Good Cheese Matters: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor.
A bowl of creamy yellow grits topped with shredded cheese and chopped green onions, with a small dish of sauce in the background. Pin it
A bowl of creamy yellow grits topped with shredded cheese and chopped green onions, with a small dish of sauce in the background. | zestplate.com

Simple Serving Ideas

These easy homemade grits go great with:

  • Your holiday brunch spread
  • Any weeknight dinner
  • Roasted veggies for a simple meal

A Simple Southern Tradition

This easy homemade recipe isn't just grits it's a piece of our family history. Each creamy spoonful brings back memories of Sunday brunches and holiday mornings. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just because they're sure to become a tradition in your family too.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why stir constantly when adding grits?

Prevents lumps from forming and ensures smooth texture.

→ What type of grits work best?

Old-fashioned grits provide best texture, avoid instant grits.

→ Can I use different cheese?

Sharp cheddar provides best flavor but any melting cheese works.

→ Can I make ahead?

Best served fresh but can keep warm in oven if needed.

→ Why add hot sauce?

Enhances flavors without making dish spicy.

Cheese Grits Recipe

Creamy Southern-style grits loaded with sharp cheddar cheese, butter and cream. A comforting classic side dish.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Side Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Southern

Yield: 6 Servings (6)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 3 cups water.
02 1 cup heavy cream.
03 8 tablespoons butter, divided.
04 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
05 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese.
06 1 cup old-fashioned grits.
07 Tabasco sauce to taste.

Instructions

Step 01

Combine water, heavy cream, half the butter (4 tablespoons), and salt in medium saucepan.

Step 02

Bring liquid mixture to full boil over medium-high heat while grating cheese.

Step 03

Grate sharp cheddar on large holes of box grater to yield about 4 cups.

Step 04

Slowly pour grits into boiling liquid while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

Step 05

Reduce heat immediately to low once grits are incorporated.

Step 06

Simmer grits for 20 minutes, stirring frequently until liquid absorbs and grits become tender.

Step 07

Add grated cheese to cooked grits and stir until completely melted.

Step 08

Mix in remaining butter (4 tablespoons) until fully incorporated.

Step 09

Add few drops Tabasco sauce to enhance flavors.

Step 10

Taste and adjust salt level as needed.

Step 11

Serve hot immediately with extra Tabasco on side.

Step 12

Alternatively, transfer to baking dish to keep warm in oven.

Notes

  1. Southern classic.
  2. Rich and creamy.
  3. Simple ingredients.
  4. Perfect side dish.

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium saucepan.
  • Box grater.
  • Wooden spoon.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream, butter, cheese).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 485
  • Total Fat: 38 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
  • Protein: 22 g