The moment the first whiffs of buttery grits fill the air, I can’t help but feel a sense of comfort wash over me. This Easy Crockpot Grits recipe, designed for the slow cooker, is my go-to for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can set it and forget it, allowing the magic to unfold slowly over three hours. Whether you pair them with crispy bacon, sautéed shrimp, or savory cheese, these creamy grits are the perfect blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
What I love most about this dish is its effortless elegance—despite how luxurious it tastes, the preparation could not be easier. As I stir the pot and witness the grits transform into a velvety, smooth masterpiece, I’m reminded that comfort food doesn’t have to mean hours spent in the kitchen. Grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into a Southern classic that stands out for its flavor and versatility—all while keeping the fast food at bay.
Why will you love Easy Crockpot Grits?
Simplicity at its finest: Just throw your ingredients in the slow cooker, set the timer, and relax while the magic happens.
Rich, creamy texture: With just a few basic ingredients, these grits turn into a luxurious, velvety delight.
Versatility galore: Whether enjoyed sweet or savory, they’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Comfort food classic: Experience authentic Southern flavors in your own kitchen, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch everyone come back for seconds—these grits are sure to impress!
Easy Crockpot Grits Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting Southern dish with these simple ingredients!
For the Grits
- Grits – The essential base for your dish, providing a creamy texture; feel free to substitute with quick grits if you’re short on time.
- Milk – Adds richness and creaminess; almond or oat milk makes for a great dairy-free alternative.
- Water – The hydrating agent for cooking grits; no substitutes needed!
For Flavor Enhancements
- Butter (or ghee) – Elevates flavor and gives a luscious mouthfeel; coconut oil is a perfect vegan substitute.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors in your dish; don’t skip this!
- Pepper – Adds a hint of spicy depth; adjust depending on your taste preference.
Optional Additions
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers a delightful cheesy flavor; omit or swap for dairy-free cheese if you prefer a classic recipe.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Grits
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Combine ingredients: In your slow cooker, mix together the grits, milk, water, butter, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well combined for a creamy, luscious base.
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Set it up: Stir the mixture until evenly blended, cover, and set your slow cooker to high heat. This process is your chance to breathe in those delicious buttery aromas as they begin to develop.
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Cook patiently: Allow the grits to cook for about 3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent clumps and ensure your grits achieve that wonderfully smooth texture.
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Instant Pot variation: If you’re opting for the Instant Pot, use the same ingredient ratios, but cut the cooking time down to about 20 minutes on high pressure for that same creamy goodness.
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Add cheese: When the grits are cooked, if you’re using cheddar cheese, stir it in gently until melted and fully incorporated, enhancing both flavor and texture.
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Serve warmly: Dish up those luscious grits while they’re warm, adding your favorite toppings like shrimp, eggs, or a sprinkle of cheese to elevate your meal.
Optional: Top with sautéed shrimp or a drizzle of hot sauce for a delicious twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Easy Crockpot Grits?
Transform your comforting grits into a complete meal with these delightful pairings that will make your taste buds dance.
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Sautéed Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed with garlic and herbs complement the creamy texture beautifully, offering a savory delight in every bite.
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Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty crunch of crispy bacon adds a satisfying contrast, especially when paired with the velvety grits. These classic breakfast meats elevate the comfort factor!
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Poached Eggs: A perfectly poached egg on top creates a delightful creaminess that enhances the grits even further, making every forkful heavenly.
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Fresh Chives or Scallions: Sprinkle on fresh herbs like chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
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Cheddar Cheese: Stirring in sharp cheddar cheese offers a deliciously tangy kick and an extra layer of creaminess, transforming your grits into a cheesy masterpiece.
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Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce will bring balance and excitement to every mouthful, awakening your palate.
Serve your Easy Crockpot Grits with these side dishes, and elevate your meal into a celebration of comforting Southern flavors.
Storage Tips for Easy Crockpot Grits
Fridge: Store leftover Easy Crockpot Grits in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a cozy meal.
Freezer: If you want to save leftovers longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the grits on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore that creamy texture.
Airtight Containers: Always use airtight containers for best results, ensuring your grits retain their delicious buttery flavor and smooth consistency!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crockpot Grits are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the ingredient mixture—grits, milk, water, butter, salt, and pepper—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine them in your slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully! When you’re ready to cook, just reheat on low for about an hour to bring the mixture back to a warm consistency before setting your slow cooker to high for 3 hours. Stir occasionally for that silky texture, and enjoy your grits just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Easy Crockpot Grits Variations
Feel free to elevate your creamy grits experience with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly version while keeping that creamy texture.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a refreshing pop of flavor that brightens your dish. It’s a simple way to add personality!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce while cooking for an inviting warmth that dances on your palate. Adjust it to your heat preference!
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Cheese Lovers: Fold in different cheeses, such as goat cheese or pepper jack, for a mouthwatering twist that enhances the richness of the dish. The melting cheese creates layers of flavor.
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Sweet Touch: Stir in a teaspoon of sugar to the mixture before cooking, or drizzle with maple syrup when serving for a comforting, sweet treat.
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Savory Surroundings: Add cooked crumbled bacon or sausage for a heartier breakfast option, creating a fulfilling and stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor profile, balancing the creaminess of the grits beautifully.
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Veggie Bliss: Sauté some spinach or kale and fold them into your grits before serving for an extra dose of greens and nutrition—deliciously vibrant!
Expert Tips for Easy Crockpot Grits
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Choose Quality Grits: Opt for stone-ground grits over instant ones for the best flavor and creamy texture. Instant grits often lack the rich taste of traditional varieties.
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Monitor Consistency: Stir the grits occasionally during cooking. This avoids clumping and ensures even cooking, resulting in a silky finish for your easy Crockpot grits.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the time to prevent the grits from thickening excessively, which can make them hard to serve. A perfect consistency should be smooth and creamy.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference. You can also experiment with spices like cayenne pepper for a touch of heat in your grits.
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Topping Ideas: Get creative with toppings! From sautéed shrimp to crispy bacon or even a drizzle of honey, there’s no limit to what can enhance your easy Crockpot grits.
Easy Crockpot Grits Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right grits for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using stone-ground grits. They provide a rich, creamy taste that instant varieties simply can’t match. Look for grits that are coarsely milled, and avoid any with dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover grits?
Very! Store your Easy Crockpot Grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep them fresh. Just remember to reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture before serving again.
Can I freeze Easy Crockpot Grits?
Of course! Freezing these luscious grits is a wonderful way to enjoy them later. Allow the grits to cool completely, then portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible and label them. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently!
What can I do if my grits turn out too thick?
No worries, this is a common issue! If your grits end up thicker than desired, you can simply whisk in a little bit of warm milk or water to loosen the consistency. Heat it gently on the stove while stirring until it’s creamy again. If the grits have clumped a bit, stirring will help them regain that silky texture.
Are these grits suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! The ingredients used in Easy Crockpot Grits are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerances. Just double-check that any added toppings, such as cheese or sausage, are also labeled gluten-free to ensure everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
What toppings can I use to enhance my grits?
The more the merrier! You can get super creative with toppings. I often recommend sautéed shrimp for a Southern twist, or crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast. For a vegetarian option, try mixing in sautéed greens or fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or even drizzle some honey for a sweet touch.
Creamy Easy Crockpot Grits for Southern Comfort Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your slow cooker, mix together the grits, milk, water, butter, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well combined.
- Stir the mixture until evenly blended, cover, and set your slow cooker to high heat.
- Allow the grits to cook for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- For Instant Pot, use the same ingredient ratios but cook for about 20 minutes on high pressure.
- When the grits are cooked, if using cheddar cheese, stir it in gently until melted.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings.