These Southern Cheesy Grits are rich, smooth, and irresistibly creamy, made with stone-ground grits simmered in chicken broth and cream, then finished with onion & chive cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and butter. Every spoonful delivers bold, comforting flavor with a luxurious texture that defines true Southern comfort food.
Perfect as a hearty side dish or a cozy main, this recipe transforms simple grits into a show-stopping classic that pairs beautifully with breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Fans of authentic Southern cuisine
- Home cooks looking for extra-creamy grits
- Holiday meals, potlucks, and family gatherings
- Breakfast lovers who enjoy savory, cheesy dishes
- Anyone wanting a comfort food classic done right
Why It’s Great
- Uses stone-ground grits for superior texture and flavor
- Cream cheese adds unbeatable richness and smoothness
- Sharp cheddar delivers bold, cheesy goodness
- Easy to customize with shrimp, bacon, or sausage
- Perfect make-ahead dish for entertaining
Ingredients
- 2 cups yellow stone-ground grits
- 32 oz low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups light whipping cream
- 8 oz onion & chive cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)
- Heat-resistant spatula
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Grits
Step 1: Cook the Grits
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth and whipping cream to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent clumping. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 25–30 minutes until thick and tender.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Stir in garlic salt, black pepper, butter, and softened cream cheese. Mix until completely melted and smooth.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Fold in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese just before serving for extra richness.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess
- Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy can affect texture
FAQ
Can I use quick grits instead of stone-ground?
Yes, but stone-ground grits offer better texture and deeper flavor.
How do I keep grits from getting stiff?
Stir often and add liquid when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Can I make these grits ahead of time?
Absolutely. Reheat slowly with extra cream or milk before serving.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Crispy bacon, shrimp, sausage, or sautéed mushrooms work beautifully.
Conclusion
These Ultra-Creamy Southern Cheesy Grits are the definition of comfort food—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, they bring warmth and tradition to the table every single time.
