Get ready to delight your taste buds with a hearty serving of creamy grits! These comforting, cheesy, and savory dishes are perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic Southern-style or a flavorful twist, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 creamy grits recipes.
From decadent seafood options like Cheesy Garlic Shrimp and Grits to bold, spicy creations like Spicy Cajun Chicken and Grits, there’s something on this list for everyone. And don’t even get us started on the vegetarian and vegan options – we’ve got those covered too! In this article, we’ll take you through some of our favorite recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
Cheesy Garlic Shrimp and Grits
A creamy, cheesy, and garlicky twist on traditional shrimp and grits, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and well combined with the grits.
5. Combine cooked shrimp with the grits mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Smoked Sausage Grits Bowl
Start your day with a hearty and comforting Southern-style breakfast bowl featuring smoked sausage, creamy grits, and fresh veggies. This flavorful dish is perfect for a chilly morning or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 smoked sausage link, sliced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula and spinach)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Meanwhile, cook sliced sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked grits, sausage, and onion mixture in a bowl. Top with mixed greens and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add shredded cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Grits
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and savory dish that combines the comforting warmth of grits with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water/broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Gradually add heavy cream to the skillet, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Combine cooked grits with mushroom-spinach mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Grits
Get ready for a flavorful Southern-inspired dish that combines spicy cajun chicken with creamy grits. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water to a boil in a large pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a separate pan, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cooked chicken to the grits pot and stir to combine.
4. Stir in butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Loaded Grits
Elevate your breakfast game with these creamy, cheesy, and smoky grits loaded with crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until creamy, stirring occasionally.
2. While the grits cook, cook the diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter until melted. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until well combined.
4. Add the cooked bacon to the grits and stir until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Creamy Grits
This classic Southern dish combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the comforting warmth of creamy grits, creating a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 cup grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into melted butter, then coat in the blackening mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook grits according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve blackened catfish atop creamy grits.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pulled Pork and Grits Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the tender goodness of pulled pork with creamy grits, perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using chicken broth, milk, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pulled pork with a splash of chicken broth to rehydrate it.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of cooked grits. Top with the pulled pork mixture, spreading evenly.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Tomato and Basil Grits
A creamy and flavorful twist on classic grits, this recipe combines the comfort of warm stone-ground corn with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a brunch or breakfast dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
2. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are creamy.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Fold the tomato mixture into the cooked grits. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jalapeño and Bacon Grits with Fried Eggs
Start your day with a Southern twist on breakfast classics. This recipe combines creamy grits with spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, and a runny fried egg for a dish that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallions for garnish
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 about 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. Stir in butter and diced jalapeños. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Fry eggs in a separate pan over medium-high heat until the whites are set and yolks are still runny.
4. To assemble, place cooked grits on a plate, top with crumbled bacon, and place a fried egg on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Grits
This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the richness of Gruyère cheese, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting bowl of grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth 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 large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until they’re deep golden brown and caramelized.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir the cooked grits into the skillet with the caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Garlic Butter Scallops over Parmesan Grits
This decadent dish combines the sweetness of scallops with the savory flavors of garlic butter and parmesan grits. A perfect main course for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gruel (or 8 oz stone-ground grits)
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and milk to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Serve the garlic butter-covered scallops over the Parmesan grits. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Beef and Grits Skillet
BBQ Beef and Grits Skillet
A hearty, one-pan wonder that combines the comforting flavors of BBQ beef and creamy grits.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and shredded cheddar for garnish (optional)
- In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the stone-ground grits and water or broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are creamy.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Grits
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of goat cheese with the sweetness of roasted red peppers. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
3. Add butter, goat cheese, and parsley to cooked grits. Stir until smooth.
4. Slice roasted red peppers into strips and add to the grits mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Note: Roast red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt. Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes or until skin is charred and blistered. Peel off skin, then slice into strips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole-Style Shrimp and Grits
This classic Southern dish gets a bold twist with the addition of spicy Andouille sausage, smoky paprika, and tangy hot sauce. A hearty breakfast or brunch option that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hot sauce (such as Tabasco), for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through.
4. Stir paprika and cayenne pepper into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve shrimp mixture over hot grits, drizzled with hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Mushroom and Thyme Grits
Herbed Mushroom and Thyme Grits Recipe
A creamy and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and cook according to package instructions, stirring frequently.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the fresh thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the mushroom mixture and serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Gouda and Chorizo Grits
This recipe combines the creamy richness of Smoked Gouda cheese with the spicy kick of chorizo sausage, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of grits. Perfect for a cozy brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, crumbled
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
2. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are creamy, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the butter until melted.
4. Add the Smoked Gouda cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add the chorizo sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Grits
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with the richness of butter, served over creamy grits. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– Optional: 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Bring grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Serve shrimp over warm grits with optional grated cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Corn and Cheddar Grits with Fried Chicken
This Southern-inspired breakfast or brunch dish combines creamy grits with sweet corn, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy fried chicken. A perfect comfort food treat for a special occasion or cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– All-purpose flour for dredging
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add sweet corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir cheddar cheese into cooked grits until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Dredge chicken breasts in flour, shaking off excess. Fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve fried chicken atop creamy grits and sweet corn mixture.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 creamy grits recipes! From classic Southern-style dishes like Cheesy Garlic Shrimp and Grits and Smoked Sausage Grits Bowl, to spicy Cajun-inspired options like Spicy Cajun Chicken and Grits, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Bacon and Cheddar Loaded Grits, Blackened Catfish with Creamy Grits, and Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Grits. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a flavorful twist, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.