A Creamy, Cheesy, Warm Hug in a Bowl
These Southern-style cheese grits are the ultimate comfort food. Layered with buttery goodness and topped with a golden, bubbly crust, they feel like a warm hug at the dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or just need a cozy side for a Tuesday night, this recipe—featuring a “secret ingredient” for extra creaminess—hits the spot every single time.
What You’ll Need
- Quick Grits: For a smooth, creamy texture without the long wait.
- Boursin Garlic Cheese: The secret ingredient that adds a pop of savory flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Because you can never have too much cheese!
- Butter: Adds that essential melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- Eggs and Whole Milk: These create a luscious, custardy texture that holds it all together.
- Kosher Salt: To make all those flavors sing.
How to Make It
- Boil and Simmer: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan, add the grits and salt, then cover and simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Make it Cheesy: Remove from heat and stir in the butter, Boursin, and half of your cheddar until everything is silky and melted.
- The Custard Base: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together, then briskly stir them into the warm grits.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into a buttered 11×7 inch casserole dish and top with the remaining cheddar.
- The Finish: Bake for 1 hour until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps it set perfectly!
Get the Kids Involved
Cooking is a great way to build kitchen confidence, and since this recipe is all about stirring and sprinkling, it’s perfect for little hands.
- Ages 3–5: Let them help sprinkle the final layer of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Ages 6–9: They can help whisk the eggs and milk or use a pastry brush to butter the baking dish.
- Ages 10+: Have them take charge of “shredding duty” (with a box grater) or help stir the cheese into the warm grits until melted.
Make It Weeknight-Friendly
- Shortcut Option: While we love freshly grated cheese for better melting, pre-shredded sharp cheddar works just fine when you’re in a rush!
- Prep Ahead: You can cook the grits and mix in the cheeses ahead of time; just whisk in the eggs/milk and bake when you’re ready for dinner.
- Upgrade Move: Want to add a little crunch? Sprinkle cooked bacon bits or chopped green onions on top before popping it in the oven.
- Leftover Love: These reheat beautifully! Just add a splash of milk before microwaving to bring back that creamy texture.
Serve & Savor
These grits are a total crowd-pleaser. Serve them alongside a simple cheese omelet for breakfast or pair them with a savory roast for a hearty family dinner.
Cheese Grits
Cheese Grits is one of those nostalgic recipes that delivers pure comfort in every bite. Smooth, buttery grits combine with melted cheese and a creamy baked finish that makes it nearly impossible to stop at one serving. Whether served alongside eggs, barbecue, or roasted vegetables, this dish always steals the spotlight.
Ingredients
-
4 cups water
-
1 cup quick-cooking grits
-
1 teaspoon kosher salt
-
1/4 cup butter
-
5.2 ounces garlic cheese (such as Boursin garlic and herb cheese)
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
-
2 large eggs, whisked
-
3/4 cup whole milk
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven
Preheat oven to 350°F and butter an 11 x 7-inch casserole dish. -
Cook the grits
Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the grits and salt, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened. -
Add the cheeses
Remove grits from heat and stir in the butter, garlic cheese, and 1 cup shredded cheddar until fully melted and smooth. -
Combine egg mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Slowly add to the hot grits while stirring briskly to combine evenly. -
Assemble the casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese over the top. -
Bake
Bake for 1 hour, or until golden, bubbly, and set in the center. -
Rest and serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Shred Your Own Cheese
Freshly grated cheddar melts more smoothly and provides better flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
Let It Rest
Resting after baking allows the grits to firm up slightly, making slicing and serving easier.
Prep Ahead
Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking.
Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
