Are you tired of the same old leftovers? Look no further! Grits are a staple in many Southern households, and they can be transformed into a multitude of delicious dishes. From savory casseroles to sweet breakfast treats, we’ve scoured the internet for the most creative ways to repurpose leftover grits. Whether you’re a fan of spicy tacos or comforting soup, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore 19 unique and tasty recipes that will make your leftover grits go from bland to grand. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists, get ready to elevate your grits game and impress your friends and family with these mouthwatering creations.
Cheesy Grits Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a brunch gathering. This recipe combines the classic Southern comfort food of grits with the richness of cheddar cheese and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using the water and butter. Stir until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, combine grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
5. Add cooked grits, crumbled bacon, and cheese mixture to the baking dish. Mix well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grits and Shrimp Fritters
Classic Lowcountry cuisine gets a delicious twist with this recipe that combines creamy grits, succulent shrimp, and crispy fritter goodness. Perfect for brunch or as an appetizer, these bite-sized treats are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked grits
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together grits, shrimp, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beaten egg and stir until just combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Southern Grits Waffles
Elevate your breakfast game with these crispy and fluffy Southern-style waffles infused with the creamy goodness of grits. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these waffles will transport you to the heart of Dixie.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, grits, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (depending on your waffle iron’s heat setting).
Grits-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your bell pepper game with this Southern-inspired recipe that combines creamy grits, savory ground beef, and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked grits
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked grits, followed by the ground beef mixture, and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grits and Bacon Breakfast Muffins
Start your day off right with these savory Grits and Bacon Breakfast Muffins! These flavorful treats combine the creamy goodness of grits with the smoky, crispy taste of bacon for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked grits
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine grits, sugar, crumbled bacon, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
7. Allow muffins to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Grits Soup
A comforting and creamy twist on traditional grits, this soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish for your next gathering. Rich and velvety, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and butter until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grits and Sausage Balls
This classic combination of creamy grits and savory sausage balls is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage (such as Andouille or Jimmy Dean)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until creamy.
2. Meanwhile, cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beaten egg and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
5. Serve the sausage balls alongside the cooked grits.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Grits and Cornbread Casserole
A classic Southern combination of creamy grits and warm cornbread, baked to perfection in a savory casserole. Perfect for a cozy brunch or satisfying supper.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose cornmeal
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions, adding melted butter, heavy cream, and beaten egg. Season with salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer half of the cooked grits, followed by the cornmeal mixture, remaining grits, and remaining cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped scallions on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grits and Veggie Stir-Fry
This hearty recipe combines creamy grits with a colorful stir-fry of vegetables, making it a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add bell pepper and zucchini; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Combine cooked grits with stir-fry mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grits and Cheese Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast game with these creamy grits and melted cheese-stuffed pancakes, perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together grits, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Top with shredded cheese and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles form on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on skillet size).
Spicy Grits and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of spicy grits with the bold flavors of black bean tacos, creating a unique fusion dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), optional
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning grits and black bean mixture onto tortillas. Top with cheese, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Grits and Chicken Pot Pie
This hearty dish combines creamy grits with tender chicken, vegetables, and flaky pie crust for a satisfying meal that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. In a separate pan, sauté chicken, onion, garlic, and frozen vegetables until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Add poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill pie crust with grits mixture, then top with chicken and vegetable mixture.
6. Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grits and Spinach Quiche
This quiche combines the creamy goodness of grits with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for brunch or breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked grits
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the cooked grits, chopped spinach, grated cheese, heavy cream, and eggs.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
6. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grits and Tomato Bake
A classic Southern dish that combines creamy grits with fresh tomatoes and spices, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tomatoes are tender.
5. Combine cooked grits with tomato mixture in a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grits and Ham Croquettes
These crispy little bites combine the comforting flavors of grits and ham with a satisfying crunch, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. This easy recipe is a twist on traditional croquettes, adding a Southern touch to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked grits
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grits, ham, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. When ready to fry, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the grits-ham mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10 minutes per batch, depending on size of croquettes.
Grits and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a Southern twist on a classic breakfast burrito. Grits and egg breakfast burritos combine creamy grits with scrambled eggs, cheese, and wrapped in a warm tortilla for a filling morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortillas
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir constantly until thickened, about 5 minutes.
2. Scramble eggs in a separate bowl and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add bell pepper and onion; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add scrambled eggs and stir to combine with vegetables. Cook until eggs are set.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with 1/2 cup cooked grits, 1/4 cup egg mixture, and 1 tablespoon shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grits and Mushroom Risotto
This Southern-inspired risotto combines creamy grits with earthy mushrooms, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the grits and broth to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the grits are creamy and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked grits and white wine (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Grits and Sweet Potato Hash
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of creamy grits topped with a crispy sweet potato hash. This classic Southern combination is easy to make and sure to satisfy your morning cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits are creamy and tender (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Serve the warm grits topped with the roasted sweet potato hash. Garnish with chopped scallions or cheddar cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Grits and Pulled Pork Sliders
Grits and Pulled Pork Sliders: A Southern Twist on Classic Comfort Food
These bite-sized sliders combine the creamy richness of grits with the tender, smoky goodness of pulled pork. Perfect for a casual gathering or game day party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound pulled pork (cooled)
– 12 slider buns
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions with 4 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Divide cooked grits among slider buns, followed by a spoonful of pulled pork.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– Grits: 20-25 minutes
– Assembly and serving: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover grits! From classic breakfast dishes to innovative dinner ideas, we’ve got you covered. Try using grits as a base for cheesy casseroles, crispy fritters, or fluffy waffles. Add some Southern charm with grits-stuffed bell peppers or sausage balls. Go sweet with grits and cheese pancakes or savory with spicy tacos. And don’t forget about breakfast burritos, quiches, and hash browns! With 19 unique recipes to choose from, you’ll never look at leftover grits the same way again.
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