cheesy garlic grits recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cheesy garlic grits recipe

I have always been a fan of traditional Southern cuisine, and one dish that never fails to impress me is cheesy garlic grits. This comforting side dish has a rich history, dating back to the days of the American Civil War.

The concept of grits as we know it today originated from the indigenous peoples of the Americas, who first milled corn into a coarse meal called ‘grit.’ Over time, grits became a staple in Southern cuisine, often served with butter, cheese, and other ingredients to create a creamy and flavorful side dish.

My family loves this recipe because it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. We often serve it at family gatherings and holidays, where it’s sure to be devoured in no time.

The best part about cheesy garlic grits is that they can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish, making them perfect for any occasion. One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can add different types of cheese, herbs, or spices to give it your own unique flavor.

My kids adore helping me make this recipe because it’s so easy and fun to mix all the ingredients together. As for me, I appreciate how this recipe has become a staple in our household – it’s comforting, delicious, and always makes me feel like I’m taking care of my family.

Cheesy Garlic Grits

4.8 from 774 votes

This creamy and flavorful cheesy garlic grits recipe is a comfort food classic. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty side dish, it combines the richness of cheese with the savory goodness of garlic.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Grits

2 cups stone-ground grits
8 cups water
2 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring water to a boil in a large pot.
2Add grits and salt, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
3Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let the grits simmer for 20 minutes, or until the grits have thickened and the water has been fully absorbed.
4Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5While the grits are cooking, prepare the cheese sauce.
6In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
7Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden.
8Add the milk and bring to a simmer.
9Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
10Once the grits are cooked, remove from heat and gradually stir in the cheese sauce until well combined.
11The grits should be creamy and well coated with the cheese sauce.
12If the mixture is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
13Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Whisk
Saucepan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also top the grits with chopped green onions or bacon bits for added flavor.

One of my favorite things about cheesy garlic grits is how well they reheat – simply pop them in the microwave or oven until warm and enjoy! If you plan on storing leftovers for later use, consider freezing them individually in ice cube trays or zip-top bags.

When reheating, be sure to add a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture. This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course.

Give it a try tonight!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Garlic Grits

Q: What type of cheese should I use for this recipe?

The type of cheese you use will greatly impact the flavor and texture of your cheesy garlic grits. For this recipe, I recommend using a combination of cheddar and parmesan cheese for the best results.

Q: Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground grits?

While instant grits can save you time in preparation, stone-ground grits are preferred for their coarser texture and nuttier flavor. If you do decide to use instant grits, keep in mind that they may not hold their texture as well.

Q: How long should I cook my garlic before adding it to the grits?

You should cook your garlic until it’s soft and fragrant – about 3-4 minutes over medium heat should do the trick.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe is best made fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time if needed. Simply store them in separate containers until you’re ready to assemble and cook the dish.

Q: What other ingredients can I add to make this recipe more interesting?

You can customize your cheesy garlic grits by adding diced ham or bacon for added protein and smoky flavor.

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