If you’ve ever craved a comfort food that wraps you up in warmth and creamy indulgence, then you have got to try this Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe. It’s a beautifully simple, unpretentious dish that takes the humble grit and transforms it into a luscious, cheesy side or even a main when paired with the right toppings. Making it in a crock-pot means it’s nearly effortless, filling your home with a cozy aroma all day while you go about your life. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like slow-cooked grits with sharp cheddar melting into every creamy spoonful — it’s like a hug from the South in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe comes alive with just a handful of genuine ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the stone-ground grits bring a hearty texture, water creates the perfect silky base, and salt enhances natural flavor. The sharp cheddar cheese? That’s the star that makes this dish irresistibly cheesy and comforting.
- 1 cup stone-ground grits: Use stone-ground for authentic texture and robust flavor that you can truly taste with every bite.
- 4 cups water: This is the canvas that lets the grits swell and soften into that creamy stew-like consistency.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the richness of the grits and cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Choose good-quality cheddar for the best melty, flavorful results.
How to Make Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Crock-Pot
Start by spraying your crock-pot or slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step will save you from any sticky clean-up afterward and ensure your grits cook evenly without clinging to the sides.
Step 2: Combine Basics and Set to Low
Add the stone-ground grits, water, and kosher salt directly into the crock-pot. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything, then set your cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6 to 8 hours. This slow, patient cooking method softens the grits perfectly without constant supervision.
Step 3: Resist the Urge to Stir
After your grits start cooking, try not to stir again until around the 4-hour mark. This helps develop the right texture — creamy but with the slight bite that makes stone-ground grits so special. Stirring too often can make the texture mushy.
Step 4: Season and Adjust Consistency
When cooking is complete, mix the grits well. Taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper as preferred. If you find your grits are thicker than you like, add splashes of water or milk, stirring until you get that perfectly creamy consistency. Remember, some like it thick and hearty, others more fluid; it’s all personal style here.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Finally, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Watch it melt into the warm grits until every bit is creamy and gooey. Serve immediately and prepare for delighted smiles at your table.
How to Serve Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your cheesy grits with a pat of fresh butter on top or a sprinkle of additional shredded cheese for an extra decadent touch. Crumbled crispy bacon also pairs beautifully, adding a salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess.
Side Dishes
Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe works wonderfully alongside fried chicken, sautéed greens like collards or kale, or even a breakfast plate with eggs and sausage. Its rich texture and flavor complement so many Southern favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the cheesy grits into mini ramekins and top with chopped chives or scallions for color and a fresh bite. You could also turn it into a base layer for shrimp and grits or add roasted vegetables for an all-in-one comforting meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer the cheesy grits to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for 3 to 4 days and still taste delicious with a little reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Use a freezer-safe container, and for best results, consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat grits gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to restore their creamy consistency. Stir frequently to warm evenly and bring back that fresh-cooked deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground?
While quick-cooking grits will cook faster, the texture and flavor won’t be the same. Stone-ground grits provide that hearty, rustic bite that defines this Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe, but you can use them in a pinch for a quicker version.
Is there a substitute for cheddar cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic and flavorful, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack to add a new dimension to your grits.
Can I add milk instead of water for creamier grits?
Yes, swapping some or all of the water for milk or cream will yield even creamier grits. Just be cautious with cooking times and stirring, as dairy can scorch more easily.
How long can I leave the grits cooking in the crock-pot?
The Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe is designed for 6 to 8 hours on low. Going longer risks drying them out, so it’s best to keep within that window for optimal creaminess.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can use plant-based cheese and a non-dairy milk alternative to make this dish vegan or dairy-free. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly, but it will still be creamy and comforting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe that turns simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying dish. I encourage you to give it a try and experience firsthand how easy it is to bring a taste of the South to your table with almost no fuss. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these cheesy grits are sure to become one of your favorite go-tos when you want comfort food done right.
Print
Southern Crock-Pot Easy Cheesy Grits Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes to 8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
A comforting Southern-style cheesy grits recipe made effortlessly in a crock-pot. This dish features slow-cooked stone-ground grits that become wonderfully creamy and cheesy, perfect as a hearty breakfast or side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the crock-pot: Spray your crock-pot or slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Add ingredients and start cooking: Pour the grits, water, and kosher salt into the crock-pot. Set the cooker to low and time it to cook for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the grits to slowly absorb the liquid and become tender.
- Limit stirring: Stir the mixture well at the beginning, then try to avoid stirring again until around the 4-hour mark to allow the grits to thicken and cook evenly.
- Finish cooking and season: When cooking is complete, stir the grits thoroughly. Season to taste with ground black pepper and additional salt if needed. Adjust consistency by adding more water or milk if the grits are too thick, stirring until creamy.
- Add cheese and serve: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Serve the cheesy grits immediately. Optionally, top with a pat of butter, extra shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor.
- Cooking time in the crock-pot can vary between 6 to 8 hours depending on the appliance; check for desired consistency.
- Do not over-stir during cooking to avoid a gummy texture.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more water or milk after cooking as preferred.
- For a richer dish, consider adding a pat of butter or toppings like bacon when serving.
