When it comes to comfort food, few things can beat a warm, creamy bowl of grits. But why settle for plain old grits when you can elevate them with bold flavors and ingredients? In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory quick grits recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From cheesy and garlicky to spicy and smoky, these recipes offer a world of flavor possibilities.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or something more adventurous and international-inspired, we’ve got you covered. In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of quick grits and explore all the delicious variations that await. So grab your spoon and get ready to dig in – these savory quick grits recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Cheesy Garlic Quick Grits
Get your comfort food fix with this creamy, cheesy, and aromatic side dish that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
4. Add butter, garlic, and cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Quick Grits
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with spicy kick and creamy grits for a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish. Perfect for a quick morning meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the spicy shrimp over the quick grits.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Quick Grits
A classic Southern breakfast gets a boost of flavor with the addition of crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until creamy, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
4. Add crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Southern-Style Quick Grits with Butter
Get ready for a warm, comforting bowl of creamy goodness! This classic Southern recipe is a staple breakfast or brunch dish that’s quick to prepare and devoured in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeño and Cheese Quick Grits
A spicy twist on traditional grits, this recipe combines the comfort of cheese with the heat of jalapeños for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. Perfect for those who like a little excitement in their morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeño peppers (about 2-3 peppers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil, then gradually whisk in the grits.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes or until the grits have thickened.
3. Stir in the butter, cheese, and jalapeños until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Quick Grits
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and creamy grits recipe, infused with the savory flavor of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the grits have thickened.
2. Stir in the butter until melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Sausage and Gravy
Quick Grits with Sausage and Gravy: A Southern Comfort Classic
Get ready for a hearty breakfast or brunch that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe combines creamy grits, savory sausage, and rich gravy for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound cooked sausage (such as Jimmy Dean), crumbled
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add crumbled sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the sausage and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, bringing to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Serve the sausage gravy over the cooked grits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Quick Grits with Green Onions
Start your day off right with these creamy, cheesy grits loaded with fresh green onions and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
3. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and diced jalapeño (if using) until melted and smooth.
4. Fold in the chopped scallions.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Grits Breakfast Bowl with Eggs
Start your day off right with a hearty and satisfying breakfast bowl that combines creamy grits with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and delicious meal to fuel up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or milk
– 2 large eggs
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or diced ham for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water/milk to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a separate bowl, scramble the eggs with a fork until they’re well-beaten.
3. Add the cooked bacon, bell peppers, and onions to the scrambled eggs and stir to combine.
4. Serve the grits in a bowl, topped with the egg mixture, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Smoked Gouda
A creamy and indulgent breakfast or brunch option that combines the comfort of grits with the rich flavor of smoked gouda. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a busy morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
3. Cook, covered, for 5-7 minutes or until the grits are creamy and tender.
4. Stir in the butter until melted.
5. Add the grated smoked Gouda and stir until well combined.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Quick Grits with Fresh Thyme
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the comforting warmth of grits with the brightness of fresh thyme. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or diced scallions for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the butter, garlic, and thyme until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese or diced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Roasted Tomatoes
Quick Grits with Roasted Tomatoes: A flavorful and comforting breakfast or brunch option that can be ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large tomatoes, halved
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. While the grits are cooking, toss the tomato halves with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
4. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the roasted tomatoes. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Grits and Collard Greens Combo
This comforting dish combines creamy grits with tender collard greens for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until creamy, stirring frequently.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add collard greens to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture. Cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes or until desired tenderness.
4. Season grits and collard greens with salt and pepper to taste. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of grits and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Grits with Pulled Pork
A comforting breakfast or brunch recipe that combines creamy grits with tender pulled pork and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup pulled pork (such as leftover BBQ or slow-cooked pork shoulder)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, grated cheddar cheese, or diced jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
2. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the grits have thickened to your liking.
3. Stir in the butter until melted.
4. Add the pulled pork, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Pimento Cheese
A Southern classic gets a speed boost! This recipe is perfect for a busy morning or a quick snack, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until creamy, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the butter until melted.
4. Add pimento cheese and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits and Fried Okra Medley
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of grits with the crispy, savory delight of fried okra. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, this medley is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large okra pod, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil and gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
2. Meanwhile, mix flour, cornmeal, and a pinch of salt on a plate. Dip okra slices into buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry okra until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Stir butter and salt into cooked grits. Serve hot with fried okra medley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Grits with Maple Syrup and Pecans
Start your day off right with this sweet and satisfying breakfast dish that combines creamy grits with the richness of maple syrup and crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the grits have thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and maple syrup until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in chopped pecans and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Crab and Old Bay Seasoning
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful and quick-to-make dish that combines creamy grits, succulent crab, and the classic Maryland seasoning, Old Bay. This recipe is perfect for a busy morning when you still want to treat yourself.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 pound jumbo lump crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
2. Stir in the butter, salt, crab meat, and Old Bay seasoning until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your grits game to the next level! In this article, we’re sharing 18 savory quick grits recipes that are ridiculously easy and packed with flavor. From cheesy garlic to spicy shrimp, bacon and cheddar to southern-style with butter, there’s a recipe for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast bowl or a hearty lunch, these quick grits recipes have got you covered. So go ahead, get creative, and make your mornings (or any time of day) just a little bit brighter!
Leave a Reply