Name: Crockpot Creamy Grits with Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: southern
Ingredients: ½ tsp black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup stone-ground grits, rinsed; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups water; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional); 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

This Crockpot Creamy Grits with Cheese transforms simple grits into a rich, cheesy delight with a smooth texture. Perfect for breakfast or a side, it’s an easy, hands-off recipe that delivers comforting Southern flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These crockpot creamy grits with cheese are a Southern classic elevated to new heights, offering a velvety, cheesy comfort food that’s perfect for any meal. The slow cooker ensures a hands-off cooking process, blending grits into a smooth, luscious texture infused with sharp cheddar and a hint of butter. Ideal for lazy mornings, brunch gatherings, or as a cozy side dish, this recipe is versatile and budget-friendly, pairing beautifully with eggs, shrimp, or roasted veggies. Its rich flavor and ease of preparation make it a hit for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use Stone-Ground Grits: They offer better texture and flavor; avoid instant grits for creaminess.

Stir Occasionally: Stir every few hours to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add Cheese Late: Stir in cheese during the last hour to avoid curdling or graininess.
Adjust Liquid: Add extra broth if grits thicken too much during cooking.

Low Heat Only: Cook on low to maintain a smooth consistency without scorching.
Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt after adding cheese, as it can vary in saltiness.
Rest Before Serving: Let grits sit for 10 minutes to thicken and meld flavors.

Keep Lid On: Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain steady cooking temperature.

Yield: 8 servings

Crockpot Creamy Grits with Cheese

Creamy crockpot grits with cheesy goodness, perfect for a cozy Southern breakfast or side.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

½ tsp black pepper

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup stone-ground grits, rinsed
1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp salt
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups water

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

Rinse the Grits: Rinse stone-ground grits under cold water to remove excess starch, ensuring a smoother texture.
Combine Liquids: In the slow cooker, mix chicken broth and water, stirring to combine for the cooking base.
Add Grits: Pour rinsed grits into the liquid, stirring to avoid clumps and ensure even cooking.

Season the Mix: Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the grits, giving them a flavorful start.
Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring every 2-3 hours to prevent sticking.
Check Consistency: After 6 hours, check if grits are tender; add more broth if too thick.

Add Creaminess: Stir in heavy cream and butter during the last hour, blending for a rich texture.
Melt the Cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese in the last 30 minutes, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Rest and Thicken: Turn off the slow cooker and let grits sit for 10 minutes to thicken and set.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon into bowls, top with chopped green onions if desired, and serve warm with your favorite sides!

Notes

Stone-ground grits are key for authentic texture; avoid instant varieties.
Stir cheese gradually to prevent separation; low heat helps maintain creaminess.

Adjust liquid if grits absorb more than expected during cooking.
Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
This recipe can be adapted for vegan or gluten-free diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 281Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 69mgSodium 545mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 0gSugar 1gProtein 10g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Stone-Ground Grits (1 cup): Provide a hearty, creamy texture; rinse before using to remove debris.

Chicken Broth (4 cups): Low-sodium broth adds flavor and keeps grits moist; homemade enhances taste.
Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor; grate fresh for best melt.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a rich, creamy consistency; half-and-half works as a lighter option.

Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and a silky finish; unsalted is best for control.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Brings subtle savory warmth to complement the cheese.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavors; adjust after adding cheese to avoid over-salting.

Black Pepper (½ tsp): Adds a mild kick; adjust to taste for balance.
Green Onions (2 tbsp, chopped, optional): Garnish with fresh, mild onion flavor for brightness.
Water (2 cups): Helps achieve the right consistency; adjust as needed during cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Grits Type: Use yellow or white stone-ground grits; avoid quick-cooking varieties.
Cheese Swap: Substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Cream Options: Replace heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative for lighter grits.

Broth Swap: Use vegetable broth or water with extra seasoning for a milder taste.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Herb Addition: Stir in fresh thyme or parsley for an herbal note.

Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese, cream, and butter, ensuring broth is vegan.
Protein Boost: Mix in cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier dish.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth.

Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding liquid to restore creaminess.