Creamy, buttery grits are a Southern comfort classic — but you don’t have to be from the South to make and love them. Grits are simply ground dried corn cooked into a smooth, warm porridge that’s perfect any time of day. They’re versatile, cozy, and incredibly easy to prepare.
Whether you prefer them savory with cheese and butter or sweet with cinnamon and sugar, this 15-minute recipe will show you exactly how to make grits that turn out smooth and creamy every single time.
🥣 What Are Grits?
Grits are made by grinding dried corn into coarse or fine particles, then simmering them in water or stock until soft and creamy. They’re very similar to polenta but traditionally associated with Southern American cooking.
You can serve grits for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, pairing them with everything from fried eggs and bacon to shrimp or roasted vegetables.
🧈 Ingredients
To make 2 servings of basic, savory grits, you’ll need:
- ½ cup grits (stone-ground or old-fashioned, not instant)
- 2 cups water
- 1 chicken bouillon cube (or ½ teaspoon bouillon paste)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons cream or half-and-half, ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or parmesan are all great)
💡 Ratio tip: Always use a 4:1 ratio of liquid to grits — that’s the key to the perfect creamy consistency.
🔪 How to Make Grits
Step 1: Boil the liquid
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the chicken bouillon cube and stir until dissolved.
Step 2: Add the grits
While whisking, slowly stir in the grits. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally so the grits don’t stick to the bottom.
Step 3: Add butter and seasonings
Once the grits are soft and thickened, remove from heat. Stir in butter, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Make them creamy (optional)
For extra richness, stir in cream and cheese until melted and smooth.
That’s it — perfectly smooth, creamy grits ready to serve!
✨ Tips & Variations
- Use broth instead of water: Swap the bouillon and water for chicken stock (or beef, seafood, or vegetable stock) for deeper flavor.
- Adjust texture: For thinner grits, add more liquid while cooking. For thicker grits, cook a few minutes longer.
- Sweet grits option: Skip the bouillon and pepper, then add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of cream for a comforting breakfast version.
- Cheesy upgrade: Stir in your favorite melting cheese — cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack all work beautifully.
- Instant grits note: If your package says instant, they’re pre-cooked — just add boiling water and stir, no simmering required.
🍳 Serving Ideas
- Classic breakfast: Top grits with fried eggs, bacon, or sausage crumbles.
- Southern-style dinner: Serve with shrimp, catfish, or roasted vegetables.
- Sweet treat: Mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, and a dollop of butter or cream cheese.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Ready in just 15 minutes
✅ Simple, budget-friendly ingredients
✅ Customizable — make it sweet or savory
✅ Smooth, creamy, and endlessly comforting
✨ Warm, buttery, and perfectly creamy — these homemade grits are a Southern staple that belongs in every kitchen. Once you master this simple base, the flavor possibilities are endless! 🌽💛
