10 Delicious Quaker Grits Recipes to Try Today

Quaker grits are a comforting staple that can be transformed into delicious dishes beyond the classic bowl of creamy goodness. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a savory side, these recipes will help you whip up flavorful meals that make the most out of this versatile ingredient. Get ready to enjoy some tasty twists on grits!

Quaker Grits Breakfast Bowl

This Quaker Grits Breakfast Bowl is a cozy and satisfying way to start your day. Creamy grits form the perfect base, topped with crispy bacon, fresh avocado, and a perfectly poached egg. Each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it both hearty and nutritious.

Simple to prepare, this breakfast bowl can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you add a sprinkle of cheese or your favorite spices, it’s an easy dish that brings comfort to your morning routine. Let’s get started with the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 slices of bacon
• 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the grits and salt. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Poach the Eggs: In a separate pot of simmering water, crack the eggs gently. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny. Remove with a slotted spoon.
4. Assemble the Bowl: In a bowl, add a scoop of grits, top with bacon, avocado slices, and a poached egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Grits with Collard Greens

Grits with collard greens is a comforting dish that brings together two Southern staples. The creamy, buttery grits provide a perfect base for the tender, flavorful collard greens, which are often seasoned with garlic and spices. This dish is not only simple to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for any meal.

The combination of textures—smooth grits and slightly chewy greens—creates a delightful eating experience. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Let’s dive into how to make this hearty meal with Quaker grits.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 pound collard greens, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits: In a pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add salt and gradually stir in the Quaker grits. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the butter until melted and creamy.
2. Prepare the Collard Greens: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Add the chopped collard greens, stirring to combine. If desired, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for some heat. Cook for about 5-10 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender.
3. Serve: Spoon the creamy grits into bowls and top with the sautéed collard greens. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy this delicious and wholesome dish!

Spicy Chorizo and Grits

Spicy Chorizo and Grits is a delicious blend of creamy grits topped with flavorful, spicy chorizo. The smooth texture of the grits complements the robust taste of the chorizo, creating a satisfying dish that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe is both simple and quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight meals or casual brunch gatherings.

The combination of spices in the chorizo gives this dish a delightful kick, while the grits provide a comforting base. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic Southern staple of grits with a twist. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this meal is sure to please!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 ounces spicy chorizo, casing removed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the Quaker grits, reduce heat to low, and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, stir in butter and cheese until melted.
2. Cook the Chorizo: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Combine: Once the grits are ready, spoon them onto plates and top with the chorizo mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.

Southern Style Grits Casserole

Southern Style Grits Casserole is a comforting dish that brings rich flavors and creamy textures to the table. This recipe combines buttery grits with savory ingredients, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. It’s simple to prepare and can easily be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy time with family and friends.

The casserole features a delightful mix of cheese, sausage, and herbs, all baked to perfection for a deliciously satisfying meal. Each bite is creamy and filling, offering a taste of the South that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a pot, bring water to a boil and stir in the grits. Cook according to package instructions until thickened.
3. Once the grits are cooked, remove from heat and mix in half of the cheese, cooked sausage, and thyme.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture into the grits until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and set. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Creamy Cheddar Quaker Grits

Creamy Cheddar Quaker Grits are a comforting dish that blends rich flavors with a smooth texture. Perfect for breakfast or a side dish, this recipe brings a delicious balance of sharp cheddar cheese and buttery grits, making every bite a delight. It’s simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen.

These grits are not only tasty but also versatile; you can enjoy them as they are or customize them with your favorite toppings. Once you try this recipe, it might just become a regular at your table!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Boil Liquid: In a large saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the salt.
2. Add Grits: Gradually stir in the Quaker grits. Reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
3. Stir in Cheese: Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
4. Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper.
5. Serve: Spoon the grits into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions. Enjoy warm!

Savory Shrimp and Grits

Savory shrimp and grits is a delightful dish that perfectly combines creamy, buttery grits with succulent shrimp. The rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a favorite for many. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

The blend of spices and a touch of lemon elevate the shrimp, while the grits provide a comforting base. It’s a quick and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor, making it a go-to for seafood lovers and grits enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add salt and gradually stir in the Quaker grits. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
2. Add Butter: Stir in butter, mixing well until creamy. Set aside and keep warm.
3. Prepare the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, paprika, and lemon juice. Cook for 3-5 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Serve: Spoon the creamy grits onto plates and top with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy!

Quaker Grits Stuffed Peppers

Quaker Grits Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines sweet bell peppers with creamy, cheesy grits. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. This recipe is also quite simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

The creamy texture of the grits pairs wonderfully with the tender roasted peppers, making each bite a treat. Plus, you can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, adding vegetables or proteins as you like. It’s a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water or broth
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil. Stir in the Quaker grits and cook according to package instructions until creamy. Stir in cheese, tomatoes, onions, spinach, salt, and pepper.
3. While the grits are cooking, cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly drizzle the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
4. Once the grits are ready, fill each pepper with the mixture and top with a little extra cheese if desired.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your tasty Quaker Grits Stuffed Peppers!

Grits with Roasted Vegetables

This dish combines creamy Quaker grits with a colorful array of roasted vegetables, creating a delightful and nutritious meal. The creamy texture of the grits pairs perfectly with the caramelized flavors of the veggies, making each bite satisfying and wholesome.

It’s a simple recipe that showcases the natural flavors of the ingredients, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or a hearty breakfast. With easy preparation steps, you can whip this up in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup parsnips, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the Brussels sprouts, carrots, and parsnips with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and golden.
2. In a pot, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the Quaker grits, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until thickened.
3. Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper. Once the grits are creamy, remove from heat.
4. Serve the grits in bowls topped with the roasted vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Herbed Grits with Grilled Chicken

Herbed grits with grilled chicken create a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. The creamy, flavorful grits pair beautifully with the juicy, seasoned chicken, making each bite a delight. This recipe is simple to prepare, so you can enjoy a cozy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of fresh herbs enhances the taste of the grits, while the grilled chicken adds a lovely smoky flavor. It’s a great way to impress family and friends with a dish that feels both rustic and refined. Let’s get started on this delicious meal!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the Quaker grits and salt. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes until the grits are thick and creamy.
2. Add Flavor: Once the grits are cooked, stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and parsley. Mix well and adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
4. Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a bed of herbed grits. Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges for a fresh touch.

Dessert Grits with Cinnamon Apples

Dessert grits with cinnamon apples is a cozy and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the day. The creamy texture of the grits pairs beautifully with the sweet, spiced apples, creating a delightful contrast. This recipe is simple to make and will leave your taste buds satisfied while warming your heart.

The blend of cinnamon and caramelized apples on top of smooth grits makes for a deliciously sweet and comforting treat. Whether you serve it for breakfast or as a dessert, it’s sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into the ingredients and how to whip up this tasty dish!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quaker grits
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 apples, peeled and sliced
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits: In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Stir in the grits and salt. Reduce the heat and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
2. Prepare the Apples: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized.
3. Serve: Spoon the cooked grits into bowls and top with the cinnamon apples. Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.