18 Delicious Quick Grits Recipes Perfect for Breakfast
Grits, a Southern staple, are not just for fancy brunches or grandma’s kitchen anymore. In fact, with our collection of 18 delicious quick grits recipes, you can enjoy this creamy comfort food for breakfast any day of the week! Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and simple or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
From cheesy bacon bites to shrimp and sausage pairings, our quick grits recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your morning cravings. And the best part? Most of these recipes can be prepared in 15 minutes or less, making them perfect for busy mornings when time is scarce but hunger is real.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of our top 18 quick grits recipes, highlighting what makes them special and providing step-by-step instructions so you can recreate them at home. So grab a bowl, get cozy, and let’s dig in!
Cheesy Quick Grits with Bacon
Start your day off right with a creamy, cheesy bowl of grits packed with crispy bacon and a hint of smokiness. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the grits are tender.
2. Stir in the butter until melted. Add 1/4 cup of the cheddar cheese and stir until combined.
3. Add the crumbled bacon and remaining cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Quick Grits
This Southern-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and olive oil; sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir grits into the skillet with garlic mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve shrimp on top of grits, sprinkled with cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Quick Grits with Sausage
Get ready for a flavorful and filling breakfast or brunch with these Spicy Quick Grits with Sausage!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the grits are tender.
4. Meanwhile, cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Stir in the cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the cooked sausage mixture over the warm grits.
8. Add hot sauce for an extra kick, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your spicy and satisfying breakfast or brunch!
Quick Grits Casserole with Eggs
Elevate your morning routine with this comforting and easy-to-make casserole, perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch. This recipe combines creamy grits with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. Add butter to the cooked grits and stir until melted.
5. Combine cooked grits with scrambled eggs and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Quick Grits
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these creamy Garlic Parmesan Quick Grits! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Grits with Roasted Vegetables
A hearty and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This recipe combines creamy grits with roasted vegetables for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
3. While the grits are cooking, toss the carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red bell peppers with butter and salt on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Once the grits are cooked, stir in some roasted vegetables and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Creamy Quick Grits with Mushrooms
Start your day off right with these creamy, comforting grits infused with the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir the cooked mushroom mixture into the grits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using cheese, stir it in until melted. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Grits and Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A comforting classic that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe combines creamy grits with the gooey goodness of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy grilled sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 slices cheese (Cheddar or American work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the grits are creamy.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top with cheese and another bread slice, butter-side up.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve the grilled cheese sandwich with the creamy grits.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Pulled Pork
Satisfy your cravings with this easy and delicious recipe that combines creamy grits with tender pulled pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup shredded pulled pork (cooked and warmed)
– Optional toppings: chopped scallions, crumbled bacon, grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grits are creamy and tender.
4. Stir in the butter, salt, and pepper until melted and well combined.
5. Add the warmed pulled pork and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Brown Sugar Quick Grits
Start your day off right with a warm and comforting bowl of Maple Brown Sugar Quick Grits, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of maple syrup and brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in the butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Black Beans and Avocado
This recipe combines the creamy comfort of grits with the nutritious boost of black beans and avocado. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
2. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the grits are creamy and cooked through.
3. Stir in the butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans and stir until combined.
5. Top with diced avocado and serve hot. Optional: sprinkle with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quick Grits Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a hearty and comforting breakfast bowl packed with creamy grits, fresh veggies, and savory sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as Andouille or Italian), crumbled
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped scallions, or sliced avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the grits and water or broth to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until creamy and tender.
3. Stir in butter until melted.
4. Add crumbled sausage, bell peppers, and onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Grits with Fried Chicken
This classic comfort food combination is a staple of Southern cuisine, and for good reason – the creamy grits pair perfectly with crispy fried chicken. In just a few minutes, you can have a satisfying meal on the table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 5 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 6-8 minutes.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, and garlic powder. Dredge the cooked chicken in the mixture to coat.
4. Fry the coated chicken in hot oil until crispy and golden, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Quick Grits and Collard Greens
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to whip up a delicious and comforting breakfast dish that’s packed with nutrients. With its creamy grits and tender collard greens, this meal is perfect for busy mornings when you need something satisfying and quick.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped (about 4 cups)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are creamy.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add collard greens to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the grits alongside the collard greens.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Quick Grits with Smoked Salmon
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that can be prepared in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the grits and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the grits have absorbed most of the liquid.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and salt until melted.
3. Stir in the flaked smoked salmon and chopped fresh dill.
4. Squeeze with lemon juice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Grits with Spinach and Feta
Start your day with a deliciously creamy breakfast that’s packed with nutrients from spinach and feta cheese. This recipe is a twist on traditional grits, adding a boost of flavor and color.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy and tender.
3. Stir in butter until melted.
4. Add spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with feta cheese. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Grits and Cornbread Muffins
Start your day with a Southern-inspired breakfast combo: creamy grits and warm cornbread muffins. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a satisfying and flavorful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Bring water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 5-7 minutes or until creamy.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and buttermilk. Add melted butter and whisk until smooth.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Divide batter among muffin cups. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grits) + 15-20 minutes (muffins)
Quick Grits with Caramelized Onions
A flavorful and comforting breakfast or brunch option that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until creamy.
2. While the grits cook, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir the cooked grits with salt to taste.
4. Serve the grits topped with caramelized onions. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese and chopped fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious quick grits recipes to start your day? Look no further! This article features 18 mouth-watering breakfast ideas that are sure to please. From classic comfort foods like Cheesy Quick Grits with Bacon and Spicy Quick Grits with Sausage, to more adventurous options like Shrimp and Quick Grits and Maple Brown Sugar Quick Grits, there’s something for everyone. Plus, get creative with add-ins like roasted vegetables, mushrooms, and black beans, or try one of the many unique flavor combinations featured in this article. Perfect for a quick and easy breakfast on-the-go!
