It may look like a sad little package shoved in the back of your freezer, but frozen spinach actually has a lot of culinary uses (and some may surprise you).
Slow Cooker Southern Cheddar Cheese Grits
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These slow cooked cheesy grits can be served for breakfast (toss a poached egg on top!) or as a savory side dish for dinner.
serves/makes:
ready in:
over 5 hrs
over 5 hrs
6 reviews
ingredients
5 cups water
1 cup uncooked grits, not instant
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
directions
Combine the water and grits in a crock pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
Before serving, add butter and salt to taste (if desired).
crock pot notes
Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.recipe tips
For extra flavor, cook the grits in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
To make the grits extra creamy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving.
If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, mix in some grated Parmesan or sharp white Cheddar along with the Cheddar cheese.
To add a smoky flavor, mix in some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
For a more indulgent dish, top the cheesy grits with crumbled bacon or caramelized onions before serving.
common recipe questions
What are grits?
Grits are a type of porridge made from boiled cornmeal. They can be made from white or yellow corn and have a creamy texture when cooked.
Can I use instant grits for this recipe?
Instant grits are not recommended for this recipe as they will not hold up to the slow cooking process and may become mushy.
What type of cheese can I use instead of Cheddar?
You can use other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyere.
Can I add other mix-ins to the grits?
You can add ingredients like cooked bacon, sauteed mushrooms, chopped herbs, or even diced jalapenos.
Can I cook the grits on high instead of low?
While you can cook the grits on high for a shorter amount of time, they may not have the same creamy texture as when cooked on low for a longer period.
What should the texture of the grits be after cooking?
The grits should be creamy and smooth with a slightly thick consistency. If they are too thick, you can add a splash of milk to thin them out.
How do I know when the grits are done cooking?
The grits are done when they are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, with a creamy texture.
Can I make these grits ahead of time?
You can make these grits ahead of time and reheat them on the stove or in the microwave with a little extra liquid to loosen them up.
How should I serve these cheesy grits?
You can serve these cheesy grits as a side dish for meats like barbecue or fried chicken, or top them with a poached egg for a hearty breakfast.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze the grits?
Yes, let the grits cool completely then store in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tools needed
Measuring Cup: For accurately measuring the water, grits, and cheese for this recipe.
Crock Pot/Slow Cooker: For slow cooking the cheesy grits.
Stirring Spoon: For stirring the water, grits, and cheese together in the crock pot.
Grater: To grate the Cheddar cheese for adding to the grits. It's best to use freshly grated cheese instead of the pre-shredded kind.
what goes with it?
Roasted Chicken: These savory grits would make the perfect side dish for a tender roasted chicken. The creamy, cheesy texture will balance out the crispy skin of the chicken.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Serve these cheesy grits as a bed for some bacon-wrapped shrimp for a surf and turf dish.
Braised Short Ribs: These cheesy grits would be the ideal base for some rich and flavorful braised short ribs. The creamy grits will soak up all the delicious juices from the ribs.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Top these cheesy grits with some crispy fried green tomatoes for a Southern twist. The tangy tomatoes will add a refreshing bite to the creamy grits.
nutrition data
202 calories, 5 grams fat, 31 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium.
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reviews & comments
November 28, 2021
I recently had carpal tunnel surgery so stirring grits constantly wasn't going to happen. Hubbs wanted grits so I made this version in the slow cooker. Like the other reviewer, I'm impressed that it turned out since everything maw maw taught me about grits is the constant stirring. It was very good and Hubbs says even he can make it!
March 10, 2019
Hands down these are the best grits I have ever eaten super easy to prepare followed the recipe to the letter came out amazing
January 11, 2015
This was a hit at work! I tripled the recipe & left the cheese out & to the side so everyone could add the desired amount to their own bowl. I will definitely be making this again soon!
October 27, 2013
I figured there was no way this would turn out like regular stove top grits since the trick to making good grits is the stirring. Well, color me impressed because the texture was almost perfect. I say almost because I grew up in the south and I know grits - but this would probably fool a lot of southerners even. I added a little sauteed garlic but otherwise followed the recipe exactly.
January 19, 2008
Thank you! This will really help my homeschooling family have a yummy warm breakfast that is very quick! Rather than buttering the crockpot, I used a crockpot liner. I also add the cheese to each serving individually, as we have a child with a dairy allergy. Thank you!
November 8, 2007
Great recipe & I love that you can change the servings... I did add a teaspoon of salt to the water & grist as it cooked. I also suggest that you add the cheese right before serving (and I put a little more than the recipe called for) and stir to melt. Super for any meal...great as a side dish on a cool night!