Instant Pot Grits
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease or vegetable oil
- 1 cup stone ground grits
- 3 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- 1
Add bacon grease or oil to inner pot of Instant Pot. Turn "Saute" mode on. Once hot, add grits and cook and stir for 2 minutes.
- 2
Add water, half-and-half, salt, and butter. Turn Instant Pot off, place lid on with valve in "sealing" position. Set to Pressure Cook on HIGH for 10 minutes.
- 3
Allow a 15 minute Natural Release and then manually release the remaining pressure. Remove lid and stir in cheese. Stir well. Grits will thicken up some as they cool slightly.
Instant Pot Grits
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 38 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving perfectly creamy, comforting grits without the constant stirring? This Instant Pot grits recipe delivers a truly hands-off, soulful dish that's ready to enjoy with minimal effort, transforming a breakfast staple into a decadent treat.
Why This Recipe Works
Using your Instant Pot is the secret weapon here, creating incredibly velvety smooth grits every time. This method eliminates the constant attention and stirring traditional stovetop grits demand. The rich combination of savory bacon grease, luxurious half-and-half, and a generous finishing touch of butter and cheddar ensures a truly decadent flavor and texture that sets this recipe apart.
What to Expect
You can expect a bowl of deeply satisfying, rich, and wonderfully creamy grits. The stone-ground variety provides a delightful, slightly toothsome texture that stands up beautifully to the richness of the dairy. With a foundational depth from bacon grease and the sharp, comforting tang of shredded cheddar cheese melted throughout, this dish offers a warm, indulgent experience. It’s pure comfort in every spoonful, perfect for starting your day or as a hearty side.
Customization & Variations
- For a slightly lighter touch, you can easily swap the half-and-half for milk, as suggested by the recipe. Similarly, if you prefer a neutral base or are avoiding pork products, vegetable oil is a perfect substitute for the bacon grease.
- Feel free to experiment with different shredded cheeses beyond cheddar to personalize the flavor, perhaps a sharper white cheddar or a melty Monterey Jack.
Serving & Context
These creamy Instant Pot grits are ideal for a leisurely breakfast or a comforting brunch. They also make a fantastic, rich side dish to complement your favorite Southern-inspired entrees, such as shrimp and grits.