Delicious Southern Grits: A Classic Comfort Food

Dear friends and fellow food enthusiasts, gather around for my latest southern-style culinary creation: the Crockpot Cheesy Southern Grits Recipe. This slow-cooked comfort food is a staple in southern households and is sure to warm your heart and stomach on cold days or any day that you crave a delicious bowl of creamy grits.

The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients, yet the complexity of its flavor. With just a few staple ingredients such as stone-ground grits, sharp cheddar cheese, heavy whipping cream, and butter, it’s hard to believe how creamy and flavorful this dish turns out.

Allow me to emphasize the importance of using stone-ground grits in this recipe. The traditional old-fashioned technique of grinding corn results in a grainier texture that absorbs more liquid, leading to creamier grits. Trust me; it’s worth seeking out these grits at your local grocery store or specialty shop.

But what I love most about this recipe is how versatile it can be. You can serve it up as a side dish with any protein or veggies you fancy, or dress it up for an elegant breakfast casserole with shrimp and bacon toppings.

So, with all that said – grab your slow cooker, your ingredients and join me in preparing an authentic southern staple that will feel like a warm hug on a plate. Let’s delve into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

My dear readers, I am thoroughly convinced that once you taste these crockpot cheesy southern grits, they will become a staple in your home. Do not let their simplicity fool you: this recipe is bursting with flavor and seasoned to perfection in every bite.

Firstly, the convenience of using a slow cooker cannot be emphasized enough. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of creamy cheddar cheese grits waiting for you in your crock pot. It’s an effortless way to start your day or prepare a hearty dinner without slaving over the stove all day long.

These grits are made with stone-ground yellow grits and delicious classic ingredients such as heavy whipping cream, sharp Cheddar cheese, and butter. The texture of the creamy grits is truly out of this world — smooth, velvety and perfectly cooked with just the right amount of salt.

Not to mention, there is a lot of room to make variations to this recipe to fit different dietary needs or personal preference. Substitute the water for low-sodium chicken broth for an extra flavorful twist. Or try adding some shrimp or bacon to turn it into the ultimate savory breakfast casserole or satisfying main dish.

In summary, these crockpot cheesy southern grits combine all of the essential elements of a comforting southern meal while being easy and versatile. Once you take one bite, I guarantee that it will leave you wanting more!

Ingredient List

Before getting started with this scrumptious Crockpot Cheesy Southern Grits Recipe, let’s make sure you have all the essential ingredients to add to your grocery list. The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily find most of the ingredients in your pantry or nearby store. Here are the ingredients needed for this recipe:

Basic Ingredients

• Stone ground grits: 2 cups
• Water: 6-8 cups
• Salt: 1-2 teaspoons
• Butter: 3 tablespoons
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 2 cups
• Heavy whipping cream: 1/2 cup

Cheese Combination

Have a little fun with your cheese combination by using your favorite types of cheeses. Here are a few alternative cheese combos:

• Yellow stone-ground grits + cheddar cheese
• Instant grits + ground grits + cheddar cheese
• Corn grits + cheddar cheese

Optional Ingredients

• Low-sodium chicken broth: 3 cups instead of water for added flavor
• Light whipping cream instead of heavy cream, for a healthier version
• Oz container of low-fat Greek yogurt, for added creaminess

Make sure to get all the ingredients before starting your cooking adventure. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

The Recipe How-To

Step 1:

To begin making crockpot cheesy southern grits, you’ll need stone ground grits, salt, and water. Measure 2 cups of stone ground grits and add them to your slow cooker, along with 6 cups of water and 1 tsp of salt. Mix well with a spoon.

Step 2:

Set your slow cooker to low heat and cover it with a lid. Allow the mixture to cook on low for approximately 6-8 hours or until the grits are tender.

Step 3:

After the initial cooking period, open the lid and whisk the grits for a moment, breaking up any lumps that may have formed. Next, add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4:

Now it’s time to add some cheesy goodness to the southern-style creamy grits! Slowly sprinkle in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously as you add it into the mix. Stir until all of the cheese has melted into a smooth and creamy consistency.

Step 5:

Let the cheesy mixture cook together in the slow cooker for another 10-15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.

Step 6:

Finally, give your crockpot cheesy southern grits one last stir, then turn off your slow cooker or switch it to “warm.” Letting them sit covered for an additional 10-15 minutes will give the grits a little extra time to thicken up.

Savor your delicious homemade cheesy slow cooker cheesy southern-style grits!

Substitutions and Variations

Greetings, dear reader! If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit or need to substitute a few ingredients, I’ve got you covered. Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try for this crockpot cheesy southern grits recipe:

– Cheese: You can use any cheese of your choice, such as pepper jack, colby jack, or monterey jack. However, I would suggest using sharp cheddar cheese for the perfect amount of tanginess and creaminess.

– Grits: For the best results, I recommend using stone-ground grits. But if you can’t find them at your local grocery store, instant grits will work fine too. However, keep in mind that the texture won’t be as creamy and flavorful as stone-ground grits.

– Liquid: Instead of water, you can use chicken or vegetable broth to add more flavor to the dish. For a creamier texture, you can use half milk and half water or swap out the water for heavy cream.

– Butter: Easy on yourself by using cooking spray instead of butter.

– Low-Carb: Replace grits with cooked cauliflower.

– Sugar-free: Leave out the whipping cream for fewer calories.

– Seafood twist: Add shrimp into your grits to make it even more heartful; it fills your stomach quicker than without including shrimp.

I hope these substitutions and variations give you ideas and help satisfy your cravings. Cheers to delicious meals that remain affordable and easy on schedule!

Serving and Pairing

Once your crockpot cheesy southern grits are done, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy their deliciousness. These creamy cheddar cheese grits pair well with many dishes, making them a versatile addition to your meal.

One popular serving option is to top your cheesy slow cooker grits with shrimp. This combination creates the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that will make anyone’s taste buds sing.

If you’re looking for something more simple, you can serve these cheesy grits as a delicious breakfast dish. Pair them with eggs, bacon, or sausage for a hearty breakfast that will keep you full all day long.

For a more traditional southern pairing, serve your cheesy crockpot grits alongside smoked ham or fried chicken. These items complement the grits’ buttery, savory flavors, making for the complete soul food experience.

If you’re opting for a vegetarian version of this dish, you could serve the creamy cheddar cheese grits with roasted vegetables such as mushrooms or carrots. This option pairs well and offers balance to warm comforting meal.

Overall, these cheesy southern grits can be paired in many different ways, depending on your personal preferences and tastes. Experimenting with various combinations will give you new and exciting ways to enjoy this classic southern dish.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

My dear reader, if you’re planning to entertain guests or want to enjoy a warm bowl of creamy cheesy Southern grits before your busy day, then you’ll be pleased to know that this recipe is perfect for making ahead.

After cooking the grits in the slow cooker for six to eight hours and adding the sharp cheddar cheese and heavy whipping cream, transfer them to an airtight container and allow them to cool down. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

When it’s time to reheat, add water or milk to the desired consistency and reheat them on low heat while stirring occasionally. A crockpot or microwave can warm them up evenly without compromising their creamy texture.

It’s easy to reheat these grits without losing their distinctive flavor and texture. You may want to add additional salt, butter, or cheese as needed. Rest assured, these delicious grits are just as good reheated as when they were freshly made.

Now that you know how convenient it is to make ahead, store and reheat these tasty cheesy Southern grits, you can look forward to less time in the kitchen and more enjoyment with your family and friends.

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to making the perfect crockpot cheesy southern grits recipe, there are a few tips that can help ensure your dish is creamy, cheesy, and delicious every single time. As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that I’d like to share with you today.

Firstly, to ensure your grits have a creamy texture, be sure to stir together the water, salt, and grits before adding them to the slow cooker. This will help to break up any clumps and allow for even cooking.

Secondly, if you’re using stone ground grits, cook them on low heat for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker. This will give them plenty of time to absorb the liquid and become tender.

Thirdly, cover and cook your grits on low for best results. Cooking on high may result in uneven cooking or a burnt taste.

Fourthly, when adding cheese to your grits, add it gradually and stir constantly until it’s completely melted. This will prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.

Additionally, adding heavy whipping cream instead of milk can give your cheesy southern grits recipe an extra level of creaminess that will take them to the next level.

It’s also important not to skimp on the butter; it pools into creamy pockets throughout each bite! Lastly, remember that all crockpots are different; make sure you monitor your cheesy grits throughout cook time.

By following these simple tips, you can create a mouth-watering bowl of crockpot cheesy southern grits that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.

FAQ

As with any recipe, you may have some questions about the preparation or cooking process of this crockpot cheesy southern grits recipe. Here are some frequently asked questions to help ensure your success in making this delicious dish.

What is the secret to good grits?

The key to preparing the best grits is to give them a thorough whisking. This not only prevents clumping but also releases the starch, resulting in a creamy texture. To achieve this, it is suggested to whisk the grits constantly while slowly adding them to the boiling water. In agreement, top food editors recommend whisking often for the ultimate grit experience.

How do you make grits creamy not gritty?

When preparing traditional grits, the key is to use a low heat that allows the grits to simmer and gradually release their starches. This process lends a luscious and velvety texture to the final product. One must also be sure to whisk the mixture diligently during the initial minutes and intermittently throughout the cooking time to prevent any unsightly lumps from forming.

What can I add to grits to make it taste better?

For sweetness, we’ve got butter, cinnamon, raisins, syrup, brown sugar, peanut butter, jam, and berries. If savory is more your style, we’ve got cheese, fried eggs, bacon (cooked and chopped), caramelized onion, roasted red peppers, tomatoes, scallions, and herbs.

Is milk better than water for grits?

Grits come in different colors such as yellow or white, but what makes them special is their ability to blend well with various flavors. My top tip is to use milk when cooking grits instead of water as it brings out their exquisite flavor and creamy texture. The outcome is truly worth it!

Why aren’t my grits creamy?

When cooking grits, it’s important to not cut corners on the cooking time. Even if you opt for the 5-minute grits, it’s best to give them more time to soak up the water. This extra time helps the grits become creamier and smoother in texture, as they are able to meld together and fully absorb the liquid.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, if you are looking for a delicious and easy southern-style dish, look no further than the crockpot cheesy southern grits recipe. By following my detailed instructions, you can make flavorful and creamy cheddar cheese grits that will delight your taste buds with every bite.

Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s brunch with friends or a family dinner. Moreover, with the ability to make ahead and store leftovers, this recipe is ideal for busy weeks when cooking time is at a premium.

So don’t hesitate to try out this recipe and savor the rich flavors of southern cuisine. With its simplicity and versatility, it’s sure to become one of your favorite comfort foods in no time!

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