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
Scale
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.
