15 Best Southern Grits Recipes For Breakfast And Brunch

Southern grits are one of the most beloved comfort foods in traditional Southern cooking. Whether served with butter and salt, topped with crispy bacon, smothered in creamy cheese, or paired with savory shrimp, grits have been a breakfast and brunch staple for generations.

There is something special about a warm bowl of homemade Southern grits. They are simple, affordable, filling, and incredibly versatile. From traditional stone-ground grits to hearty breakfast casseroles, there are countless ways to turn this humble ingredient into a delicious meal.

If you are looking for the best Southern grits recipes for breakfast and brunch, this collection features 15 comforting dishes that bring classic country cooking to your kitchen.

What Are Southern Grits?

Grits are made from dried corn that has been ground into coarse particles. When cooked with water, milk, or broth, they soften into a creamy, porridge-like dish.

Grits have deep roots in Native American food traditions and later became an essential part of Southern cuisine.

Today, they are especially popular throughout the southeastern United States, where they are frequently served alongside eggs, sausage, bacon, biscuits, and other traditional breakfast favorites.

There are several common varieties of grits:

Stone-ground grits: Coarsely ground corn with a rich corn flavor and hearty texture.
Regular grits: More processed than stone-ground varieties and generally quicker to cook.
Quick grits: Finely processed grits that cook in approximately five minutes.
Instant grits: Precooked and dehydrated grits designed for fast preparation.
Hominy grits: Made from corn that has undergone an alkaline treatment called nixtamalization.

For the richest flavor and most traditional texture, stone-ground grits are an excellent choice.

1. Classic Southern Butter Grits

Nothing represents traditional Southern breakfast cooking quite like a bowl of creamy butter grits.

This simple recipe allows the natural corn flavor to shine while butter adds richness and a smooth finish.

Ingredients:

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Bring the water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan.
Slowly whisk in the grits.
Reduce the heat to low.
Cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring frequently, or until tender.
Add the butter and black pepper.
Stir until creamy and serve warm.

Serving suggestion: Pair with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and homemade Southern biscuits.

2. Southern Cheddar Cheese Grits

Cheese grits are a Southern favorite because they combine the creamy texture of grits with the bold flavor of melted cheddar cheese.

They are perfect for family breakfasts, weekend brunches, and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

1 cup stone-ground grits
3 cups water
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

Bring the water, milk, and salt to a gentle simmer.
Gradually whisk in the grits.
Reduce the heat and cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring regularly.
Remove from heat once the grits are tender.
Stir in the cheddar cheese, butter, and garlic powder.
Serve immediately.

Serving suggestion: Top with chopped green onions and additional shredded cheddar.

3. Southern Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is one of the South’s most recognizable dishes, particularly associated with coastal Lowcountry cooking.

Tender shrimp, smoky bacon, and creamy grits create a flavorful meal suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups chicken broth, divided
1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the grits in 3 cups of chicken broth, adding water as needed, until tender.
Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy.
Remove the bacon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings.
Add garlic and shrimp to the skillet.
Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook shrimp for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through.
Add the remaining broth, butter, and lemon juice.
Spoon the shrimp mixture over the grits and sprinkle with bacon.

Serving suggestion: Garnish with fresh parsley and sliced green onions.

4. Southern Bacon and Cheese Grits

Bacon and cheese grits combine two classic Southern breakfast ingredients into one hearty dish.

The smoky bacon balances the rich cheddar cheese and creamy corn flavor.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
4 cups water
6 slices bacon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble into pieces.
Prepare the quick grits according to package instructions.
Stir in the butter and cheddar cheese.
Add half the crumbled bacon.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve topped with the remaining bacon.

Serving suggestion: Add a fried egg for an extra-filling breakfast.

5. Southern Sausage and Grits Breakfast Bowl

This hearty Southern breakfast bowl combines savory sausage with creamy grits and eggs.

It is an excellent choice for busy mornings when you want a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
4 cups water
½ pound breakfast sausage
4 large eggs
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the grits according to package directions.
Brown the breakfast sausage in a skillet until fully cooked.
Prepare the eggs scrambled or fried.
Stir butter and cheddar into the cooked grits.
Divide the grits among four bowls.
Top each bowl with sausage and an egg.

Serving suggestion: Finish with hot sauce or chopped green onions.

6. Southern Garlic Parmesan Grits

Garlic Parmesan grits offer a flavorful variation on traditional Southern grits.

The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich, savory dish that works beautifully for brunch.

Ingredients:

1 cup stone-ground grits
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Bring chicken broth and milk to a simmer.
Whisk in the grits.
Cook on low until tender, approximately 30–45 minutes.
In a small skillet, gently cook the garlic in butter for about one minute.
Stir the garlic butter and Parmesan into the grits.
Season and serve.

Serving suggestion: Serve with sautéed mushrooms or roasted tomatoes.

7. Southern Country Ham and Grits

Country ham is known for its distinctive salty, smoky flavor.

When paired with creamy grits, it creates a traditional Southern breakfast that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
4 cups water
½ pound country ham, diced
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the grits according to package instructions.
Heat the diced country ham in a skillet until warmed and lightly browned.
Stir butter and cheese into the grits.
Spoon the grits into serving bowls.
Top with the country ham and black pepper.

Serving suggestion: Add scrambled eggs and sliced tomatoes. Taste before adding salt because country ham is naturally salty.

8. Southern Creamy Milk Grits

Cooking grits with milk creates an especially smooth, rich texture.

This old-fashioned preparation is perfect for anyone who enjoys soft, creamy breakfast grits.

Ingredients:

1 cup stone-ground grits
2 cups whole milk
2 cups water
3 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Combine milk, water, and salt in a saucepan.
Heat until gently simmering.
Slowly whisk in the grits.
Reduce heat to low.
Cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring frequently.
Stir in butter and pepper.

Serving suggestion: Serve with fried eggs and breakfast sausage.

9. Southern Fried Grits Cakes

Fried grits cakes are a delicious way to use leftover grits.

Once chilled, cooked grits become firm enough to slice and fry until golden brown.

Ingredients:

3 cups cooked, cooled grits
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Stir the cheese into the cooked grits while still warm.
Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish about ¾ inch thick.
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until firm.
Cut into squares or rounds.
Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the grits cakes for approximately 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

Serving suggestion: Top with sausage gravy or a fried egg.

10. Southern Grits Breakfast Casserole

A Southern grits breakfast casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd.

It combines eggs, sausage, cheese, and grits into one comforting baked dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
4 cups water
1 pound breakfast sausage
6 large eggs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cook the grits according to package directions.
Brown the sausage thoroughly and drain excess grease.
Beat eggs and milk together.
Stir butter, sausage, and cheese into the grits.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then gradually stir in the eggs.
Pour into a greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, until the center is set and reaches 160°F.

Serving suggestion: Serve with fresh fruit or homemade biscuits.

11. Southern Jalapeño Cheddar Grits

For anyone who enjoys a little heat with breakfast, jalapeño cheddar grits are an excellent option.

Fresh jalapeños add mild-to-moderate spice while cheddar cheese provides creamy richness.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
4 cups water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 jalapeño, finely diced
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste

Instructions:

Cook the grits according to package directions.
Sauté the diced jalapeño in butter for 2–3 minutes.
Stir the jalapeño mixture into the cooked grits.
Add cheddar cheese and garlic powder.
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Season and serve.

Serving suggestion: Top with crispy bacon or grilled sausage.

12. Southern Sweet Breakfast Grits

Although savory grits are more traditional in many Southern households, sweet grits are another comforting breakfast option.

Brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter transform ordinary grits into a warm breakfast treat.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
2 cups milk
2 cups water
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Bring milk, water, and salt to a gentle simmer.
Slowly whisk in the grits.
Cook according to package directions.
Stir in brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Serve warm.

Serving suggestion: Top with sliced bananas, pecans, or fresh berries.

13. Southern Mushroom and Cheese Grits

Mushroom and cheese grits are a satisfying meatless option for breakfast or brunch.

Sautéed mushrooms add a deep, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy cheddar grits.

Ingredients:

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups vegetable broth
8 ounces sliced mushrooms
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons butter, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the grits in vegetable broth until tender.
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet.
Add mushrooms and cook until browned.
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir the remaining butter and cheddar into the grits.
Spoon mushrooms over the grits.

Serving suggestion: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

14. Southern Pimento Cheese Grits

Pimento cheese is a beloved Southern spread made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos.

Adding it to grits creates a rich, tangy, and flavorful brunch dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
4 cups water
¾ cup prepared pimento cheese
2 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

Cook the grits according to package directions.
Reduce heat to low.
Stir in butter and pimento cheese.
Mix until melted and creamy.
Add black pepper and paprika.
Serve immediately.

Serving suggestion: Top with bacon crumbles or sliced green onions.

15. Southern Loaded Breakfast Grits

Loaded breakfast grits bring together several classic breakfast favorites in one delicious bowl.

This recipe is ideal for a hearty weekend brunch or a homemade country breakfast.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick grits
4 cups water
4 slices bacon
½ pound breakfast sausage
4 large eggs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the grits according to package directions.
Cook bacon until crispy.
Brown sausage until fully cooked.
Scramble or fry the eggs.
Stir cheddar cheese and butter into the cooked grits.
Divide grits among four bowls.
Top with bacon, sausage, eggs, and green onions.
Season and serve immediately.

Serving suggestion: Add a dash of hot sauce for extra Southern flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Southern Grits

Even simple grits can become exceptional when prepared correctly.

Choose the Right Type of Grits

Stone-ground grits generally offer the richest corn flavor and a more substantial texture.

Quick grits are convenient for busy mornings, while instant grits are best when preparation time is the main priority.

Use Enough Liquid

A common starting ratio is four parts liquid to one part dry grits.

Some stone-ground varieties require additional liquid, so follow package instructions and adjust as necessary.

Stir Frequently

Regular stirring helps prevent grits from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.

It also encourages a smoother consistency.

Cook Slowly

Low, gentle heat allows grits to absorb liquid and become tender without scorching.

Add Butter and Cheese at the End

For the smoothest texture, stir butter and cheese into the grits after they have finished cooking.

Season Properly

Adding salt to the cooking liquid helps flavor the grits throughout.

Taste before serving, especially when using salty ingredients such as bacon, country ham, or cheese.

What to Serve With Southern Grits for Breakfast

Southern grits pair wonderfully with many traditional breakfast foods.

Popular choices include:

Scrambled, fried, or poached eggs
Crispy bacon
Country sausage patties
Homemade buttermilk biscuits
Sausage gravy
Country ham
Fried green tomatoes
Fresh fruit
Sautéed mushrooms
Southern-style breakfast potatoes

For a complete Southern brunch, serve creamy cheese grits alongside biscuits, eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Grits

Grits are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated.

Refrigeration: Transfer cooked grits into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing: Freeze cooled grits in airtight, freezer-safe containers for approximately 2 months for best quality.

Reheating: Place refrigerated grits in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of water, milk, or broth and stir until creamy and heated throughout to 165°F.

For a different way to enjoy leftovers, refrigerate grits until firm and make fried grits cakes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Grits

What is the secret to creamy Southern grits?

The secret is using enough liquid, cooking over gentle heat, stirring frequently, and allowing the grits to become completely tender before adding butter or cheese.

Are grits better with milk or water?

Both work well. Water allows the natural corn flavor to stand out, while milk produces a richer, creamier texture. Many Southern cooks use a combination of the two.

What cheese is best for Southern cheese grits?

Sharp cheddar is one of the most popular choices because it melts smoothly and adds a strong, savory flavor. Parmesan, smoked Gouda, Monterey Jack, and pimento cheese are also delicious options.

Can Southern grits be made ahead of time?

Yes. Cook grits ahead, refrigerate them promptly, and reheat with additional liquid. They can also be used in breakfast casseroles or fried grits cakes.

Are grits naturally gluten-free?

Plain corn grits are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact during processing is possible. Anyone who must strictly avoid gluten should choose grits labeled gluten-free.

What is the difference between grits and polenta?

Both are made from ground corn, but they traditionally differ in corn varieties, grinding styles, and culinary preparation. Grits are strongly associated with Southern American cooking, while polenta is associated with Italian cuisine.

Final Thoughts: Bring Southern Comfort to Your Breakfast Table

Southern grits are proof that simple ingredients can create some of the most satisfying meals.

Whether you prefer classic butter grits, creamy cheddar grits, savory shrimp and grits, or a hearty sausage breakfast casserole, these 15 Southern grits recipes offer something for every breakfast and brunch occasion.

One of the best things about grits is their versatility. You can keep them simple for an everyday breakfast or dress them up with cheese, bacon, shrimp, and vegetables for a special family gathering.

For beginners, classic Southern butter grits or cheddar cheese grits are excellent places to start. For a weekend brunch, shrimp and grits or a baked breakfast casserole can turn an ordinary morning into a memorable meal.

Which Southern grits recipe is your favorite—classic butter grits, cheesy grits, shrimp and grits, or a loaded country breakfast bowl?

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