Frederic Melton
Cheddar cheese grits are a staple Southern comfort food dish, typically served for breakfast but also enjoyed at lunch and dinner. Grits are made from ground corn, most often white dent corn, which has a starchier texture and a sweeter, smoother, more pure corn flavor. To make cheddar cheese grits, you'll need to bring water and salt to a boil in a saucepan, whisk in the grits, and then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until thickened. Once the grits are cooked, you can stir in butter, black pepper, garlic powder, and grated cheddar cheese.
Cheddar Cheese Grits Characteristics
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Grits, Water, Salt, Butter, Sharp Cheddar Cheese |
| Other Ingredients | Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Parmesan Cheese |
| Type of Dish | Comfort Food, Side Dish |
| Origin | Southern |
| Texture | Creamy, Thick, Smooth |
| Flavor | Rich, Cheesy |
| Ideal Wine Pairing | Pinot Noir |
| Serving Temperature | Hot |
| Storage | Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese grits are a Southern comfort food
At its most basic, the dish consists of ground corn cooked in water and mixed with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and seasonings like salt and pepper. The key to achieving the signature creamy texture of cheese grits lies in stirring the mixture frequently during cooking. This prevents the formation of lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety consistency.
While the classic combination of cheddar, butter, and grits is already mouthwatering, some cooks like to elevate the dish by preparing the grits in a mixture of water and heavy cream. This simple addition enriches the dish, making it even more decadent and indulgent. For those who enjoy a more intense cheese experience, using a combination of cheddar and Parmesan or sharp Provolone can take the grits to the next level.
Cheddar cheese grits are a beloved side dish, often served alongside breakfast staples like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or crumbled sausage. They can also be a satisfying substitute for pasta or rice at lunch or dinner. For a true Southern classic, try pairing the grits with shrimp. No matter the time of day, cheddar cheese grits are a comforting and satisfying addition to any meal.
Preparing cheddar cheese grits is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. The dish can be made in about 15 to 25 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy cooks. Whether enjoyed as a familiar favourite or discovered as a new culinary treat, cheddar cheese grits are sure to leave a lasting impression.
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They are made with ground corn
Cheddar cheese grits are a delicious and comforting dish with a creamy texture and a mild corn flavour. They are made with ground corn, which is typically white dent corn, a starchier variety that gives the dish its characteristic sweetness and smoothness. This sets grits apart from polenta, which is made from yellow flint corn and has a chewier, flakier texture.
To make cheddar cheese grits, you'll need to start by boiling water and salt in a saucepan. Then, whisk in the ground corn, reduce the heat, and cook until the mixture thickens. This process usually takes around 5 to 6 minutes. It's important to stir the grits frequently to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Once the grits are cooked, remove them from the heat and stir in butter, black pepper, and garlic powder.
The star ingredient, cheddar cheese, is then added. A sharp cheddar variety is often preferred as it adds a nice tang without being too overpowering. The cheese is grated and stirred into the grits until fully incorporated and melted. For an extra cheesy bite, you can top the grits with additional cheddar before serving.
While cheddar is the classic choice, some adventurous chefs experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan, sharp Provolone, or even Bleu cheese. However, traditionalists argue that the simplicity of cheddar is what makes this dish so comforting and familiar. The versatility of grits doesn't end there; they can be served as a side dish for any meal, and some even use them as an alternative to pasta or rice for dinner.
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The corn is boiled with water and salt
Cheddar cheese grits are a staple Southern comfort food dish, often served for breakfast, but also enjoyed at lunch and dinner. They are made from ground corn, most commonly white dent corn, which is starchier and results in a sweeter, smoother, more pure corn flavor.
To make cheddar cheese grits, the corn is boiled with water and salt. Specifically, water and salt are brought to a boil in a medium saucepan. The corn is then added to the boiling water using a whisk, which ensures that the grits remain smooth and lump-free. The heat is then lowered to a simmer, and the grits are cooked according to the package directions. It is important to stir the grits frequently to prevent the grains from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to achieve a velvety, rather than gummy, texture.
Once the grits are thick and creamy, they should be tender with a textural bite, but not hard or gritty. At this stage, butter and grated sharp cheddar cheese are stirred in until the cheese is fully incorporated and melted. The grits can then be served immediately, with additional butter and cheese on top if desired.
Some variations on the classic cheddar cheese grits recipe include the addition of heavy cream, garlic powder, and black pepper. For an extra indulgent dish, some cooks recommend using a combination of water and heavy cream instead of just water, and adding a stick of butter and a pound of cheese per cup of dry grits.
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Cheddar, butter and seasoning are added
Grits are made from ground corn, most often white dent corn, which is a starchier variety that results in a sweeter, smoother, more pure corn flavor. They are a staple Southern comfort food dish for breakfast, but can also be served for lunch or dinner.
When making cheddar cheese grits, the process begins by boiling water and salt in a saucepan. Once the water is boiling, whisk in the grits, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until thickened, stirring frequently to prevent clumping and to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
After the grits are cooked, it's time to add the cheddar, butter, and seasoning. Grate sharp cheddar cheese and cut unsalted butter into small pieces. Remove the grits from the heat and stir in the butter and cheese until they are fully incorporated and melted. Season with black pepper and garlic powder to taste. For a stronger garlic flavor, use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder.
For an extra rich and indulgent dish, some recipes suggest cooking the grits in a combination of water and heavy cream. This variation adds an even creamier texture and a more decadent flavor to the final dish.
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They can be served at any meal
Cheddar cheese grits are a versatile dish that can be served at any meal. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast option or a comforting dinner, cheddar cheese grits are a delicious and satisfying choice.
For breakfast, cheddar cheese grits make a perfect start to the day. They can be served as a simple, creamy bowl of grits with shredded cheddar cheese stirred in, or topped with additional cheddar, they go well with soft scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, or crispy bacon. If you're serving them for brunch, you can add some extra richness by cooking the grits in a combination of water and heavy cream, and don't hold back on the butter and salt.
At lunchtime, cheddar cheese grits can be a filling and tasty option. They can be served as a side dish or as the main event, paired with proteins and vegetables of your choice. For a heartier lunch, you can even use the grits as an alternative to pasta or rice, creating a satisfying and cheesy main course.
For dinner, cheddar cheese grits can be a comforting and indulgent choice. They pair well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to seafood. If you're looking for a classic combination, try shrimp and grits, a low-country favourite. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like Parmesan or sharp Provolone, to add a unique twist to your dish.
Cheddar cheese grits are a crowd-pleaser and a great option for any meal. They are easy to prepare, making them a convenient choice for busy cooks. Whether you're serving them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, cheddar cheese grits are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, the next time you're planning a meal, consider adding this versatile and delicious dish to your menu!
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar cheese grits are a staple Southern comfort food dish, usually served for breakfast. Grits are made from ground corn, specifically, most often white dent corn.
To make cheddar cheese grits, you will need grits, water, salt, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese. Some recipes also call for garlic powder, pepper, and heavy cream.
To make cheddar cheese grits, first, bring water and salt to a boil in a saucepan. Then, whisk in the grits, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until thickened. Finally, stir in the butter, pepper, and garlic powder, followed by the grated cheddar cheese.
Yes, while cheddar is a popular choice for making cheese grits, you can also use other types of cheese such as Parmesan, sharp Provolone, or Bleu cheese.
