Great Grits
Creamy, cheesy grits with ham and onions offer a comforting Southern classic, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who enjoy savory, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, simmer hot water, butter, sliced onion, and diced ham until the onion is just soft.
- Add quick grits and salt; bring to a boil.
- Cover and reduce heat, stirring occasionally, until grits reach desired thickness.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider sautéing the onion until caramelized before adding the ham. If you don't have quick grits, instant grits can be used as a substitute, but cooking times may vary. To add a spicy kick, include a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños. This dish also pairs well with American recipes featuring ham, like Ham Pickle Pinwheels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grits hot, topped with additional grated cheese for extra richness. They make a fantastic side dish for breakfast or brunch, especially alongside scrambled eggs or Denver Sandwiches. For a heartier meal, pair with a fresh salad like Layer Overnight Salad or roasted vegetables to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the grits in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the grits in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Grits contains roughly 554 calories, with 30g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (67% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2684mg per serving (117% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water for simmering. You might want to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled in for a cheesy flavor without using dairy.
How can I make these grits creamier?
To enhance creaminess, substitute half of the water with milk or cream. You can also stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream after cooking for a rich, velvety texture. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the added richness.
What can I serve with grits?
Grits are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. Consider pairing them with fried eggs for breakfast, or alongside shrimp for a classic Southern dish. They also complement a variety of pork recipes, making them a great side for your favorite ham dinner.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).