If you love the comforting creaminess of Southern cooking, then this Pimento Cheese Grits Recipe is about to become a new favorite in your kitchen. It’s the perfect blend of cheesy, slightly tangy pimento cheese melted into fluffy, buttery grits, creating a dish that’s both simple and sensational. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast, a unique side, or a snack that wows, these grits bring that irresistible Southern charm straight to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it straightforward with just a handful of ingredients that each play a starring role. These essentials come together quickly, making the rich, velvety texture and vibrant flavor of the dish truly shine.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory base without overpowering the grits.
- 1 cup water: Helps balance the liquid for perfect grit consistency.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (¼ stick): Gives the grits a luscious, silky mouthfeel.
- 1 cup quick-cooking yellow grits: The heart of the recipe that provides that classic Southern staple texture.
- ½ cup pimento cheese: The star ingredient that infuses cheesy, tangy goodness throughout.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Just the right amount to enhance all the rich flavors.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Grits Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Broth and Water to a Boil
Start by combining the low-sodium chicken broth and water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil—it’s important because it creates the perfect environment for the grits to cook evenly.
Step 2: Add Butter and Cook the Grits
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the unsalted butter. Now add the quick-cooking grits, stirring continuously so they don’t clump or stick to the pan. In just a couple of minutes, you’ll notice the grits become tender and creamy, ready for the next step.
Step 3: Stir in Pimento Cheese and Salt
This is where the magic happens. Mix in the pimento cheese and kosher salt. The cheese will melt beautifully into the warm grits, creating a smooth, rich blend with just a hint of that classic pimento tang. Give it one last stir until everything is perfectly combined, and your Pimento Cheese Grits Recipe is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Grits Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your grits with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or crispy fried shallots for a burst of freshness and texture. A little cracked black pepper or a dash of hot sauce can also add an exciting kick that complements the creamy base.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with Southern staples like fried chicken, collard greens, or even a side of sautéed greens for a balanced plate. For breakfast, it’s fantastic alongside crispy bacon or a perfectly fried egg on top.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the grits in small cast-iron skillets or rustic ramekins, topped with a dollop of extra pimento cheese and a sprig of fresh herbs. This instantly elevates your meal and gives it a cozy, inviting vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover grits in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When stored properly, they maintain their flavor beautifully, though the texture may firm up slightly in the fridge.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to do so only if needed, as the texture of grits can change a bit. Freeze in a sealed container for up to one month, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture. Stir frequently until warmed through and enjoy as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use regular grits instead of quick-cooking grits?
Yes, you can! Just remember that regular grits need longer cooking time—about 20 to 25 minutes—so adjust your schedule accordingly to get them nice and tender.
Is pimento cheese homemade or store-bought better?
Both work wonderfully. Homemade pimento cheese allows you to customize your flavors, but a good quality store-bought version saves you time and still delivers that authentic taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll keep the dish rich and flavorful while meeting vegetarian preferences.
What kind of cheese is in pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese typically features sharp cheddar cheese combined with diced pimentos, mayonnaise, and seasonings, creating a creamy, tangy spread perfect for these grits.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s generally mild since pimento cheese is not spicy, but you can easily add heat with cayenne, hot sauce, or jalapeños to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick, comforting, and packed with Southern soul, the Pimento Cheese Grits Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a fantastic way to transform everyday grits into something truly special, and I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did.
Print
Pimento Cheese Grits Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
A quick and comforting Southern-inspired breakfast or side dish featuring creamy pimento cheese blended into tender cooked grits, delivering a rich and flavorful experience in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Liquids and Fat
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (¼ stick)
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quick-cooking yellow grits
- ½ cup pimento cheese
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Boil the Broth and Water: Bring the chicken broth and water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, ensuring a consistent and vigorous boil to help the grits cook evenly.
- Add Butter and Cook Grits: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the unsalted butter until melted. Gradually add the quick-cooking yellow grits, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the grits for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until they become tender and creamy.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Mix in the pimento cheese and kosher salt thoroughly until the cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.
Notes
- Use quick-cooking grits for fast preparation; stone-ground grits require longer cooking times.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of your pimento cheese and broth.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Pimento cheese can be homemade or store-bought, but fresh makes a big difference in flavor.
- Serve as a hearty breakfast or a flavorful side dish with eggs or grilled meats.
