13 Delicious Kentucky Garlic Cheese Grits Recipes

Welcome to a world where comfort meets flavor in the most delightful way! Our roundup of 13 Delicious Kentucky Garlic Cheese Grits Recipes is your ticket to transforming simple ingredients into mouthwatering meals. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast or a hearty side dish, these recipes promise to deliver. So, grab your spoon and let’s dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness that awaits!

Southern Style Garlic Cheese Grits

On a chilly morning or a lazy weekend, nothing comforts the soul quite like a bowl of creamy, cheesy grits. Southern Style Garlic Cheese Grits are a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the simplicity of grits with the rich flavors of garlic and cheese, making it a perfect side or main dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and 1 teaspoon of sea salt, reducing the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3. Cover the saucepan and cook the grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they are thick and creamy.
4. While the grits are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
5. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the garlic butter, 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of whole milk until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, stirring to combine.
7. Remove from heat and let the grits sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Key to achieving the perfect texture is constant stirring and patience as the grits absorb the liquid. The final dish should be luxuriously creamy with a bold garlic and cheese flavor that’s balanced by the slight bite of black pepper. Serve these grits alongside crispy bacon or topped with a poached egg for a decadent breakfast twist.

Kentucky Bourbon Garlic Cheese Grits

Today we’re diving into the heart of Southern comfort with a dish that’s as bold in flavor as it is in tradition. This Kentucky Bourbon Garlic Cheese Grits recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly boozy twist on a classic that’s sure to warm your soul.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Kentucky bourbon
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the whole milk to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, reducing the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
3. While the grits are cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. After the grits have cooked for 20 minutes, stir in the garlic butter, sharp cheddar cheese, and Kentucky bourbon until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then remove from heat. Let the grits stand for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

For an extra touch of indulgence, top these grits with a fried egg or serve alongside crispy bacon. The combination of creamy, cheesy grits with the warm kick of bourbon and garlic is irresistibly comforting, making it a perfect dish for any time of day.

Creamy Garlic Cheese Grits with Scallions

Just when you thought grits couldn’t get any better, this creamy garlic cheese version with scallions comes along to prove you wrong. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a comforting side dish, this recipe is a game-changer for grits lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/4 cup scallions, finely sliced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and 1 tsp of sea salt, reducing the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3. Cover the saucepan and cook the grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they are thick and creamy.
4. While the grits cook, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
5. Stir the garlic butter into the cooked grits, followed by 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
6. Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and continue to stir until the grits reach your desired consistency.
7. Season with 1/4 tsp of freshly ground black pepper and adjust the salt if necessary.
8. Garnish with 1/4 cup of finely sliced scallions before serving.

Here’s a tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try topping your grits with crispy bacon bits or a poached egg. The creamy texture and rich garlic cheese flavor make this dish a versatile base for countless variations. Enjoy it as is, or let your creativity lead the way to your next favorite meal.

Spicy Jalapeno Garlic Cheese Grits

Begin by gathering your ingredients for a dish that combines creamy, comforting grits with a kick of spice and a punch of garlic. This Spicy Jalapeno Garlic Cheese Grits recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat with their comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 2 jalapenos, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and 1 tsp of sea salt to prevent clumping.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the grits don’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
4. While the grits are cooking, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
5. Add 2 finely diced jalapenos and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
6. Once the grits are creamy and have absorbed all the water, stir in the jalapeno-garlic mixture, 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper, and 1/2 cup of whole milk until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Now, the Spicy Jalapeno Garlic Cheese Grits are ready to enjoy. The texture is luxuriously creamy with a pleasant bite from the jalapenos, while the garlic and cayenne pepper add depth and warmth. Serve it as a bold side dish or top with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast.

Garlic Cheese Grits Casserole

Just imagine starting your day with a warm, comforting dish that combines the creamy texture of grits with the bold flavors of garlic and cheese. This Garlic Cheese Grits Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large farm-fresh eggs, lightly beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the whole milk to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
3. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and creamy. Tip: A wooden spoon is best for stirring grits to prevent lumps.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the butter and cheese are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Quickly whisk in the lightly beaten farm-fresh eggs until fully incorporated. Tip: Adding eggs to the hot grits slowly while whisking prevents them from scrambling.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are slightly bubbly. Tip: For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
7. Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly.

Brimming with creamy texture and a rich, cheesy flavor, this Garlic Cheese Grits Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bacon or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Smoked Gouda Garlic Cheese Grits

Just imagine starting your day with a bowl of creamy, smoky, and utterly comforting Smoked Gouda Garlic Cheese Grits. This dish combines the rustic charm of Southern grits with the luxurious depth of smoked Gouda, creating a breakfast or brunch staple that’s both hearty and sophisticated.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (coarse, for authentic texture)
• 4 cups water (filtered, for purity of flavor)
• 1 tsp salt (fine sea salt, for even distribution)
• 2 cloves garlic (freshly minced, for pungent aroma)
• 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese (finely shredded, for smooth melting)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (rich, for creamy finish)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground, for subtle heat)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of filtered water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits to prevent clumping, then reduce heat to low.
3. Stir in 1 tsp of fine sea salt, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
4. While grits cook, sauté 2 cloves of freshly minced garlic in 1 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. After 20 minutes, remove grits from heat and stir in the remaining 1 tbsp of unsalted butter, sautéed garlic, and 1 cup of finely shredded smoked Gouda cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
6. Season with 1/4 tsp of freshly ground black pepper, adjusting if necessary, then cover and let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
7. Tip: For extra creamy grits, replace half the water with whole milk. Tip: Always shred cheese from a block for better melting. Tip: Letting grits stand off heat allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Brimming with smoky, garlicky goodness, these grits boast a velvety texture that’s irresistible. Serve them alongside crispy bacon or top with a poached egg for a decadent twist.

Kentucky Fried Chicken Inspired Garlic Cheese Grits

Here’s how to whip up a comforting bowl of Kentucky Fried Chicken Inspired Garlic Cheese Grits that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the South. This dish combines creamy, cheesy grits with the bold flavors of garlic and a hint of KFC-inspired seasoning for a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground yellow grits
• 4 cups cold water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 teaspoon KFC-inspired seasoning blend
• 1/4 cup whole milk

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of cold water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground yellow grits and 1 teaspoon of salt, reducing the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3. Cover the saucepan and cook the grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking, until they’re thick and creamy.
4. While the grits cook, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
5. Once the grits are done, stir in the garlic butter, 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of KFC-inspired seasoning blend, and 1/4 cup of whole milk until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Remove from heat and let the grits sit for 2 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Best enjoyed hot, these garlic cheese grits boast a velvety texture with a punch of garlic and a subtle kick from the seasoning. Serve them alongside fried chicken for the ultimate Southern feast or top with a poached egg for a decadent breakfast twist.

Bacon and Garlic Cheese Grits

Whisking up a storm in the kitchen starts with mastering the basics, and our Bacon and Garlic Cheese Grits is a perfect dish to begin with. This comforting bowl combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the smoky crunch of bacon, all infused with the aromatic punch of garlic.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of water
• 1 cup of stone-ground grits
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt
• 4 strips of thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and 1 teaspoon of sea salt, reducing the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3. Cover the saucepan and cook the grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they are thick and creamy.
4. While the grits cook, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon, cooking until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
6. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
7. Once the grits are done, remove from heat and stir in the cooked garlic, 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper until fully incorporated.
8. Fold in the crispy bacon pieces, reserving some for garnish if desired.

A bowl of these Bacon and Garlic Cheese Grits is a symphony of textures and flavors, from the creamy grits to the crispy bacon bits. Serve it hot for breakfast with a poached egg on top or as a hearty side dish at dinner.

Herbed Garlic Cheese Grits

Preparing a comforting bowl of Herbed Garlic Cheese Grits is simpler than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to start your day or complement any meal. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring you achieve creamy, flavorful grits every time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (for a hearty texture)
• 4 cups water (for boiling)
• 1 tsp salt (to enhance flavors)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for richness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for a pungent kick)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (for a tangy depth)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for a bright, herbal note)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (for a slight heat)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and 1 tsp salt, reducing the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3. Cover the saucepan and cook the grits for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. After 25 minutes, test the grits for tenderness; they should be creamy with a slight bite. If too thick, add a splash of water.
5. Stir in 2 tbsp unsalted butter and 2 cloves minced garlic until fully incorporated and fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Finish by mixing in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper for added flavor and color.

Zesty and creamy, these Herbed Garlic Cheese Grits boast a perfect balance of savory cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs. Serve them alongside crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast or as a luxurious base for shrimp and gravy.

Garlic Cheese Grits with Andouille Sausage

Here’s a comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy grits with the smoky kick of Andouille sausage, perfect for a hearty breakfast or a cozy dinner. Let’s walk through the process step by step to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb Andouille sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and 1 tsp of salt, reducing the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3. Cover the saucepan and cook the grits for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking, until they are thick and creamy.
4. While the grits cook, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sliced Andouille sausage. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausage is browned and crispy on the edges.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the sausage aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
6. Once the grits are done, stir in 2 tbsp of unsalted butter, 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and 2 cloves of minced garlic until fully incorporated and the cheeses are melted.
7. Divide the cheesy garlic grits among bowls, top with the crispy Andouille sausage slices, and garnish with 2 tbsp of fresh chopped parsley.

Delight in the creamy texture of the grits contrasted with the crispy sausage, and the rich flavors enhanced by the sharp cheeses and garlic. For an extra touch, serve with a side of hot sauce or a fried egg on top for breakfast.

Cheesy Garlic Grits with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Every home cook needs a go-to comfort dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, and this Cheesy Garlic Grits with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is just that. Let’s walk through the steps to create this creamy, savory delight that’s perfect for any meal of the day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and 1 tsp of sea salt, reducing the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3. Cover the saucepan and cook the grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they are thick and creamy.
4. While the grits cook, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir the sautéed garlic and 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the cooked grits.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and fold in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
7. Season the grits with 1/4 tsp of freshly ground black pepper and garnish with 2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Velvety smooth with a punch of garlic and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, these grits are a comforting bowl of goodness. Serve them alongside a poached egg for a hearty breakfast or as a side to grilled shrimp for a satisfying dinner.

Kentucky Hot Brown Garlic Cheese Grits

Ready to dive into a dish that combines comfort with a touch of elegance? Kentucky Hot Brown Garlic Cheese Grits are a creamy, savory delight that brings together the heartiness of grits with the rich flavors of garlic and cheese, topped with the classic Hot Brown ingredients for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 4 slices turkey breast, roasted and sliced
• 4 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
• 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of whole milk to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, reducing the heat to low. Continue to stir frequently to avoid lumps.
3. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper to the grits, stirring to combine. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the grits are creamy and tender.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, and 2 tbsp of unsalted butter until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Divide the garlic cheese grits evenly among four bowls. Top each serving with a slice of roasted turkey breast, a slice of crispy bacon, and a few slices of Roma tomato.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

With its creamy texture and bold flavors, this dish is a perfect blend of Southern comfort and gourmet flair. Serve it as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, and watch it become a new favorite.

Garlic Cheese Grits with Crab Meat

Mastering the art of Southern comfort food starts with this creamy, indulgent Garlic Cheese Grits with Crab Meat, a dish that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the coast with every savory bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 1/2 lb fresh lump crab meat, carefully picked for shells
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of whole milk to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, reducing the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
3. While the grits are cooking, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. Once the grits are creamy and tender, stir in the garlic butter, 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
5. Gently fold in 1/2 lb of fresh lump crab meat and 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
6. Season with salt to taste, then remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Zesty and rich, these Garlic Cheese Grits with Crab Meat offer a perfect balance of creamy texture and briny sweetness. Serve them in a warm bowl garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or alongside a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Brimming with flavor and comfort, our roundup of 13 Delicious Kentucky Garlic Cheese Grits Recipes offers something for every taste. Whether you’re a grits aficionado or new to this Southern staple, we invite you to dive in, try these mouthwatering recipes, and share your favorites in the comments. Don’t forget to spread the love by pinning this article on Pinterest for your fellow home cooks to enjoy!