How to Make the Best Southern-Style Grits

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Homemade Southern-style grits are rich, creamy, and full of traditional Southern charm. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish to complement your favorite Southern meals.

You’ve come to the right place if you’re craving the best Southern style grits. This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of heavy cream, old-fashioned stone-ground grits, a pat of butter, and just the right amount of heavy cream to create a creamy and comforting dish. Learn the best way How to Make the Best Southern-Style Grits for a delightful breakfast or side dish.

We often make grits to go along with our breakfast. It is one of our favorite side dishes that we enjoy. In my childhood memories, I recall my Southern grandmother, a true Carolinian, tending to the stove diligently, stirring the grits to prevent them from sticking to the saucepan. And let me clarify, We’re not talking about whipping up a quick batch of 5-minute instant grits here; I mean the authentic stone-ground grits that demand 20 to 30 minutes of patient cooking.

She would serve the best grits with a fried egg & sausage. She would make the creamiest grits you ever tasted. No fancy toppings, just butter, salt & pepper. Oh, how I miss her cooking so much!

It’s a Southern Tradition

Grits boast a rich heritage within Southern culinary culture, firmly establishing themselves as a quintessential Southern dish. Throughout the Southern United States, they frequently grace tables, serving as a staple for breakfast or a cherished side dish in countless meals.

Southern-Style Grits Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 pat of butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions for making Southern-Style Grits:

1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Gradually add the 1 cup of old-fashioned stone-ground grits to the boiling water, stirring constantly to avoid clumps.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the grits simmer, partially covered, for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of whole milk. Continue to stir the mixture gently.
5. Allow the grits to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until they reach your desired consistency, stirring frequently.
6. Add a little salt to taste to enhance the flavors. Stir well to evenly distribute the salt.
7. Drop in a generous pat of butter, which will melt into the creamy grits, adding a delightful richness.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for a minute to thicken further. Then, ladle the Southern-style grits into bowls while they are still hot.

Take your Southern grits to the next level

Consider topping them with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped scallions, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a flavorful twist.

There are different types of grits!

Each type of grits offers a unique culinary experience, and the choice between them depends on personal preference and the specific dish you plan to prepare. Whether you prefer the creaminess of regular white grits, the boldness of yellow corn grits, the convenience of quick grits, the rustic texture of stone-ground grits, or the speed of instant grits, there’s a variety to suit your needs and taste.

Hominy Corn

Hominy Grits are typically made from hominy corn, which is dried corn kernels that have had their hulls removed through the process of nixtamalization. This process not only removes the tough outer layer but also enhances the nutritional value of the corn. The preparation of hominy corn and the use of grits can be traced back to indigenous peoples who inhabited the Americas long before European colonization. They developed the nixtamalization process, which was a significant culinary innovation.

Regular Grits (White Grits)

Regular grits, also known as white grits, stand as an enduring Southern classic, fashioned from ground white corn. These grits carve out a reputation for their creamy consistency upon cooking, boasting a subtle, mildly sweet flavor. Their versatility shines as they find a place in an array of culinary creations, whether gracing savory breakfast bowls or serving as a delightful side dish in various Southern recipes.

Yellow Corn Grits

Yellow corn grits are made from ground yellow corn, giving them a vibrant yellow color and a slightly richer flavor compared to white grits. They are popular in Southern cuisine and offer a sweet, nutty taste. Yellow grits can add a splash of color and a more robust corn flavor to your dishes.

Quick Grits

Quick grits are a convenient option for those who want to prepare grits in less time. These grits are finely ground and partially cooked during processing, reducing their cooking time significantly. While they offer convenience, they may have a slightly different texture compared to regular or stone-ground grits, being smoother and less coarse.

Stone-Ground Grits

Stone-ground grits are less processed and maintain the natural texture and flavor of the corn. Traditional stone mills grind them, resulting in a coarser texture than regular grits, making stone-ground grits the preferred choice for those who enjoy a heartier and more rustic grits experience.

Instant Grits

Instant grits undergo pre-cooking and dehydration, making them the quickest and easiest option for preparation. Many opt for their convenience, although the pre-cooking process may lead to a compromise in the traditional grits’ texture and flavor.

What are old-fashioned grits?

Old-fashioned grits are a classic Southern dish made from ground dried corn, specifically hominy corn, that has been treated with an alkali solution, usually a mixture of water and lye or a process called nixtamalization. Old-fashioned grits are a classic Southern dish with roots dating back to indigenous people in the Southern states of the United States. They are made from treated hominy corn and have become an integral part of Southern cuisine, enjoyed in various forms and preparations. This preparation method dates back to people in the Americas, including Native American tribes. It’s an essential staple food in the Southern states of the United States and has a long history as a traditional Southern food.

A Favorite Southern Food is Versatile

People can prepare grits in various ways, catering to individual preferences, whether it’s achieving a creamy and smooth consistency or opting for coarser textures. You can serve them plain, with a dollop of butter, or as a complement to other iconic Southern dishes like fried chicken or collard greens. Grits offer a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to customize them to your liking and pair them harmoniously with Southern classics. Try these other variations:

• Shrimp & Grits
• Cheesy Grits
• Cheese & Bacon Grits

Add these Yummy Toppings to Southern-Style Grits

• Maple Syrup
• Brown Sugar
• Cream Cheese
• Green Onion Chives
• Sharp cheddar Cheese

Commonly Asked Questions about Grits

How do you store leftover grits?

Place leftover grits in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1-3 days. 

Can I use water instead of milk or cream in grits?

Yes, you can use water if you prefer a less creamy version of grits. However, using milk or cream enhances the richness and flavor of the dish.

Are grits gluten-free?

Grits themselves are gluten-free as they are made from corn. However, cross-contamination is possible during processing or preparation, so it’s essential to check labels for gluten-free certification if you have gluten sensitivity.

What is the difference between white and yellow corn grits?

White corn grits are made from ground white corn and have a milder flavor. Yellow corn grits, made from ground yellow corn, have a slightly sweeter and more vibrant flavor and color.

What’s the key to preventing lumps in grits?

Gradually add the grits to boiling water while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to stir occasionally as they cook to ensure a smooth texture.

Final thoughts…

Moreover, in crafting the best Southern-style grits, remember that it’s more than a recipe; it’s a journey into the heart of Southern comfort food. Quality ingredients, patience, and a dash of creativity are your allies.

Furthermore, whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or alongside your favorite Southern dishes, Southern-style grits offer a taste of tradition that’s as timeless as it is delicious. So, embrace the heritage, savor the flavors, and let your culinary skills shine as you create a bowl of creamy, Southern goodness that’s sure to warm your soul.

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