Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSalty SowCheese Grits Recipe

Cheese Grits Recipe

Inspired by Salty Sow
Time35m
Serves4

Logan turnpike grits and Cheddar cheese.

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Ingredients

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Grits Base

Method

Grits Base

  1. 1

    Boil liquids

    In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring 4 cups water and 1 cup whole milk to a simmer over medium-high heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon kosher salt.

  2. 2

    Add grits

    Slowly whisk in 1 cup Logan Turnpike stone-ground grits so they do not clump. Immediately reduce heat to low so the mixture is at a gentle simmer.

  3. 3

    Simmer and stir

    Cook the grits, uncovered or partially covered, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to prevent sticking. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the grits are thick, tender, and creamy. If the mixture gets too thick before the grits are tender, add up to 1/2 cup additional warm water or milk, a few tablespoons at a time.

  4. 4

    Finish with butter and seasoning

    When grits are tender, stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until melted and incorporated.

Cheese & Finish

  1. 5

    Temper and add cheese

    Reduce the heat to very low. Add the 1 1/2 cups finely grated sharp Cheddar a handful at a time, stirring constantly so the cheese melts smoothly into the hot grits and does not seize. If using, stir in 2 tablespoons cream cheese now for extra silkiness.

  2. 6

    Adjust seasoning and consistency

    Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If grits are too thick, loosen with 1–2 tablespoons warm milk or water until desired consistency is reached. Stir in 1 teaspoon hot sauce if using, for a subtle kick.

  3. 7

    Rest and serve

    Remove the saucepan from heat and let the grits rest 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Spoon into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

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