Jalapeno Cheese Grits Recipe: Spicy, Creamy, and Easy

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of cheesy grits to brighten your day—and when you add a kick of spicy jalapeño, it transforms into a tantalizing dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner side.

Jalapeño cheese grits combine the creamy, velvety texture of traditional Southern grits with the sharp, tangy flavor of melted cheese and the zesty heat of fresh jalapeños. This recipe is simple to prepare, uses accessible ingredients, and delivers bold flavors that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.

Whether you’re a longtime grits lover or trying them for the first time, this recipe offers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can customize it with different cheeses, adjust the heat level, or add toppings like crispy bacon or sautéed greens.

Get ready to elevate your grits game with this delicious jalapeño cheese grits recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Jalapeño Cheese Grits offer a unique twist on a classic Southern comfort food. The combination of spicy jalapeños and rich cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both bold and comforting.

This dish is creamy, cheesy, and has just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting without overwhelming your palate.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few staple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious side dish or main course in under 30 minutes.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for pairing with eggs, shrimp, or even grilled chicken.

Finally, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty enough to satisfy hungry appetites and flavorful enough to impress guests, making it ideal for family meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant)
• 4 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the jalapeños: Carefully slice your jalapeños in half and remove the seeds if you prefer less heat. Finely chop the peppers and set aside.
2. Heat the liquid: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add salt to the boiling liquid.
3. Add the grits: Slowly pour 1 cup of stone-ground grits into the boiling water while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the grits simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach a creamy consistency. Stir more frequently towards the end to prevent sticking.
5. Sauté the jalapeños and garlic: While the grits cook, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped jalapeños and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Set aside.
6. Add dairy and cheese: Once the grits are creamy, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of milk or heavy cream. Mix well, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
7. Mix in jalapeños: Add the sautéed jalapeños and garlic to the grits and stir to combine. Season with black pepper and adjust salt if needed.
8. Final simmer: Let the mixture cook on low for another 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors together, stirring occasionally.
9. Serve warm: Spoon the jalapeño cheese grits into bowls and garnish with additional cheese or sliced jalapeños if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, substitute half the water with milk or add a splash of heavy cream at the end.

To reduce the heat, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or use milder peppers like poblanos.

Try different cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or gouda for a smoky flavor.

For a smoky twist, add a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the grits while cooking. You can also stir in cooked bacon or chorizo for added protein and flavor.

If you want to make this recipe vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat add-ins.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeño cheese grits are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a classic Southern meal, serve alongside shrimp and grits or fried chicken.

The creamy texture and spicy notes complement savory proteins perfectly.

They also make a fantastic base for a hearty breakfast bowl—top with a fried egg, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a satisfying start to your day.

For a vegetarian option, pair the grits with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. These grits can also be a comforting side for barbecue or grilled meats.

Conclusion

Jalapeño cheese grits are a delicious and comforting dish that brings a bold twist to a Southern classic. With their creamy texture, cheesy richness, and just the right amount of heat, they’re perfect for any meal of the day.

This recipe is easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and offers plenty of room for personalization, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these grits are sure to warm your soul and excite your taste buds. Try this recipe today and discover why jalapeño cheese grits are quickly becoming a favorite for food lovers everywhere!

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