Southern Fried Grits
Crispy Southern Fried Grits offer a savory, cheesy bite with a crunchy coating, perfect as an appetizer or side for hearty Southern comfort meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the grits and 1 teaspoon salt until thick.
- Stir in shredded cheese and minced parsley.
- Spread the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 2 hours.
- Cut the chilled grits into rounds.
- Beat eggs with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Dip each grit round into the egg mixture, then coat with dry bread crumbs.
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the coated grits until golden brown on both sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a combination of water and milk when boiling the grits. If you're out of fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder. Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavor—cheddar and pepper jack both work well. Ensure the grits are fully chilled before cutting for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Southern Fried Grits as an appetizer or a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. They pair beautifully with Southern Fried Hush Puppies for a complete comfort food experience. Consider offering a dipping sauce, like a spicy aioli or a tangy yogurt sauce, to enhance the flavor. Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or oil to help restore moisture. Cover the pan to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can microwave them, adding a bit of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Fried Grits contains roughly 599 calories, with 30g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (218% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and potassium (90% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 968mg per serving (42% 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 the grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits mixture and freeze it in advance. Just be sure to allow sufficient time for them to freeze completely before cutting them into rounds. Once cut, they can be stored in the freezer for up to a month until you’re ready to fry them.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice due to its sharp flavor, but you can also use mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for an extra kick. Mixing different cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile.
Can I bake the grits instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the grit rounds for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
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).