Simple and Creamy Cracker Barrel Grits You Can Make at Home

Cracker Barrel’s grits are a Southern classic, loved for their creamy, comforting texture and rich, buttery flavor.

Whether you’ve enjoyed them at one of their charming country restaurants or heard about their legendary reputation, there’s something irresistible about a bowl of perfectly cooked grits.

This dish is more than just a breakfast staple—it’s a cultural icon, steeped in tradition, and a symbol of Southern hospitality.

At Cracker Barrel, their grits are made with simple ingredients and expert care.

The combination of stone-ground grits, butter, milk, and just the right amount of seasoning creates a texture that’s both smooth and hearty.

They’re the kind of grits that make you feel like you’re sitting down for a warm, comforting meal in the heart of the South.

In this post, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of recreating Cracker Barrel’s famous grits at home.

You don’t have to be a seasoned chef to make these delicious grits; with the right ingredients and a little patience, you’ll be able to enjoy this Southern favorite anytime you like.

Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cracker Barrel Grits Recipe

To make Cracker Barrel-style grits, the key is to keep things simple while still letting each ingredient shine.

Here’s what you’ll need to create that creamy, comforting texture everyone loves.

The Essential Ingredients for Creamy Grits

• Stone-Ground Grits: The heart of the dish, stone-ground grits offer a much richer texture and flavor than instant or quick-cooking grits.
  They take a little longer to cook but yield a superior, creamy consistency.
• Water: Used to cook the grits initially, water is essential for getting them to the right texture.
  Some recipes call for using broth, but the water base helps the grits’ natural flavor shine.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is necessary to enhance the grits’ flavor and balance the richness of the butter and milk.
  It helps bring all the ingredients together.
• Butter: No grits are complete without butter. It adds richness and depth, making the grits irresistibly creamy.
  You can use unsalted butter for better control of the seasoning, or salted butter if you prefer a bit more flavor.
• Milk: Full-fat milk is ideal for making your grits creamy and smooth. It creates a velvety texture and adds richness, which is crucial for achieving that signature Cracker Barrel taste.
  If you want to make the grits even richer, feel free to substitute some of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.

Optional Ingredients to Elevate Your Grits

• Cheddar Cheese: For a cheesy twist on the classic, shredded sharp cheddar cheese can be stirred into the grits as they cook, creating a smooth, cheesy version that’s perfect for breakfast or a comforting side dish.
• Heavy Cream: For an extra indulgent touch, you can replace some of the milk with heavy cream.
  This will make the grits even more decadent and velvety, perfect for a luxurious brunch experience.
• Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: While Cracker Barrel’s grits are known for their simplicity, adding a hint of garlic or onion powder can enhance the flavor profile for those who enjoy a little extra seasoning.
• Crumbled Bacon: For a smoky, savory flavor, top your grits with some crispy crumbled bacon.
  The salty crunch pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the grits.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Grits Like Cracker Barrel

Making Cracker Barrel-style grits at home is easier than you might think.

With a few simple steps, you’ll achieve the same creamy, comforting grits that have made Cracker Barrel a household name.

Follow these directions for a foolproof recipe that yields perfect results every time.

Step 1: Rinse the Grits

Before you start cooking, rinse your stone-ground grits under cold water to remove any impurities or excess starch.

This step ensures the grits cook more evenly and prevents them from becoming too sticky or clumpy.

Simply place them in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse them until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Bring Water to a Boil

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

Add a pinch of salt to the water to help enhance the flavor of the grits.

While the water is heating, you can prepare your other ingredients.

Step 3: Gradually Stir in the Grits

Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the rinsed grits to the pot.

It’s important to add the grits slowly, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.

This will help create the smooth, creamy texture that Cracker Barrel is known for.

Step 4: Simmer and Stir

Allow the grits to simmer on low heat. Stir them frequently to ensure they don’t stick to the bottom of the pan and cook evenly.

The cooking process should take around 20-25 minutes, depending on the type of grits you’re using.

Stone-ground grits take longer to cook than instant or quick-cooking varieties, but they’re well worth the extra time.

Step 5: Add Milk and Butter

Once the grits have thickened to your desired consistency, it’s time to add the finishing touches.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of milk (or more, depending on how creamy you want the grits).

Let everything cook together for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are smooth and velvety.

Step 6: Optional Add-ins

If you’re making cheese grits or want a richer flavor, this is the time to add shredded sharp cheddar cheese or a splash of heavy cream.

Stir until everything is melted and fully incorporated.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once your grits are perfectly creamy and seasoned, remove them from the heat.

Serve immediately while hot, topped with your favorite accompaniments like crispy bacon, sautéed shrimp, or a sprinkle of green onions.

You can also garnish with extra cheese if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Grits Every Time

Cooking grits might seem simple, but achieving that flawless texture and rich flavor requires a little know-how.

Here are some essential tips to ensure your grits turn out perfectly every time.

1. Use Stone-Ground Grits for the Best Texture

Stone-ground grits are the key to achieving that authentic, Southern-style grit texture.

Unlike instant or quick-cooking grits, stone-ground grits retain more of the grain’s natural texture, which gives them a satisfying, hearty bite.

They do take longer to cook, but the results are worth the wait.

2. Low and Slow is the Way to Go

Grits need to cook on low heat for a long period of time to reach that smooth, creamy consistency.

Avoid rushing the process by turning up the heat.

If you cook them too quickly, they may become gritty or lumpy.

A slow simmer is the best way to achieve a velvety finish.

3. Stir Frequently to Avoid Clumps

One of the most common issues when cooking grits is ending up with clumps.

To prevent this, it’s important to stir the grits frequently as they cook.

This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the water and milk properly.

Use a wooden spoon or whisk to keep them smooth as they simmer.

4. Adjust Consistency to Your Liking

If you like your grits thicker, reduce the amount of liquid you use or cook them a little longer to let them absorb more water.

If you prefer a creamier, thinner consistency, add extra milk or water until the grits reach your desired texture.

The beauty of grits is that you can adjust them based on your preferences.

5. Keep Them Warm Until Serving

If you’re making grits in advance, you can keep them warm by covering the pot and placing it on the lowest heat setting.

Stir occasionally to prevent the grits from sticking to the bottom.

For a longer hold, consider transferring them to a slow cooker set on low, which will maintain their creamy consistency without overcooking.

6. Don’t Forget the Salt

Although grits are naturally mild in flavor, they can easily become bland without proper seasoning.

Always add a pinch of salt to the cooking water, and feel free to adjust the seasoning toward the end.

Adding butter and milk also helps to round out the flavor and create a luxurious richness.

7. Get Creative with Add-ins

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative with your grits.

Stir in some grated cheese for cheesy grits, or toss in a few sautéed shrimp for a full meal.

You can even add a dash of hot sauce for a little heat or crumble some bacon on top for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Cracker Barrel-Style Grits

One of the best things about Cracker Barrel-style grits is their versatility.

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, a main course, or even for a special breakfast or brunch, these grits can be dressed up or kept simple.

Here are a few ideas on how to serve them:

1. Classic Southern Breakfast Pairings

Cracker Barrel grits are a perfect addition to a classic Southern breakfast spread.

Pair them with some crispy bacon, sausage links, or fried chicken for a hearty, comforting meal.

Don’t forget to add a couple of eggs—scrambled, fried, or poached—to complete the plate.

The combination of the creamy grits and savory proteins will make for an unforgettable breakfast.

2. Shrimp and Grits

For an elevated twist, serve your grits with shrimp. Sauté the shrimp in a flavorful sauce made from butter, garlic, lemon, and a splash of hot sauce or white wine.

Spoon the shrimp and sauce over the grits for a rich, flavorful dish that brings together the creamy texture of the grits with the briny, garlicky shrimp.

3. Cheese Grits for a Richer Flavor

If you’re a fan of cheesy dishes, stir in some sharp cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.

These cheesy grits pair wonderfully with just about any main course, but they’re particularly great with barbecued meats, grilled chicken, or even alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option.

4. Toppings Galore

While Cracker Barrel grits are delicious on their own, you can really personalize them by adding your favorite toppings.

Try sprinkling crumbled bacon, fresh herbs like chives or parsley, sautéed mushrooms, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

A sprinkle of cheese, particularly sharp cheddar or parmesan, will add extra depth.

5. As a Comforting Side Dish

Cracker Barrel-style grits are often served as a side to complement larger meals.

Whether you’re serving fried chicken, roasted pork, or a plate of fish, a scoop of creamy grits on the side adds the perfect balance to your plate.

The subtle, buttery flavor of the grits pairs well with almost any type of protein.

6. A Standalone Comfort Meal

If you’re craving something comforting and filling, serve your grits as a standalone meal.

Add a bit of extra cheese, stir in some cooked vegetables, or top them with a fried egg for a hearty dish.

This is a perfect option for a simple, satisfying dinner or a leisurely brunch with friends.

Nutritional Information for Cracker Barrel Grits

While grits are undeniably comforting and delicious, they are also a rich, indulgent dish.

The nutritional information for Cracker Barrel-style grits can vary based on the ingredients you choose to include, such as adding cheese, cream, or butter.

Below is an estimate of the nutritional content for a basic serving of grits.

Basic Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per serving (1/2 cup cooked)
• Protein: 3-4 grams
• Fat: 5-7 grams (depending on how much butter or cream you add)
• Carbohydrates: 28-30 grams
• Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugar: Less than 1 gram
• Sodium: Around 200-300 mg (depending on how much salt is added)

How Add-ins Affect Nutritional Information

• Cheese: Adding cheddar cheese will increase both the calorie and fat content. A 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese adds around 110 calories and 9 grams of fat.
• Heavy Cream: Substituting some of the milk for heavy cream will add extra richness but also increase the calorie count.
  A 1/4 cup of heavy cream adds roughly 50-60 calories and 5-6 grams of fat.
• Butter: If you use more butter to make the grits even richer, each tablespoon of butter adds about 100 calories and 11 grams of fat.

Making Your Grits Lighter

If you’re looking to reduce the calorie content, consider using lower-fat milk, skipping the cheese, and reducing the amount of butter.

You can also lighten the dish by using less cream and incorporating more water or broth for cooking.

This will help keep the dish creamy without too many added calories.

Additional Considerations

Grits are naturally gluten-free, making them a good option for those with gluten sensitivities.

However, keep in mind that grits are a high-carb dish, so if you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, they may not fit into your meal plan.

Variations of Cracker Barrel Grits

While Cracker Barrel’s classic grits are beloved in their simplicity, there are several variations you can try to suit different tastes or to mix things up.

These easy modifications will take your grits from traditional to exciting, adding new flavors and textures.

1. Cheesy Grits

One of the most popular variations of Cracker Barrel-style grits is adding cheese.

Sharp cheddar is the go-to cheese for making cheesy grits, but you can experiment with other varieties like Parmesan, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Stir in the cheese once your grits have reached the perfect creamy texture.

The result is a rich, velvety dish that pairs beautifully with breakfast meats or as a side to your favorite Southern comfort foods.

2. Shrimp and Grits

Transform your grits into a complete meal by adding shrimp.

This Southern classic is a combination of creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp in a savory sauce, often made with garlic, butter, and a touch of lemon.

Shrimp and grits is a perfect dish for brunch or dinner and offers a satisfying contrast between the smooth grits and the flavorful, tender shrimp.

3. Spicy Grits

If you like a bit of heat, adding some spice to your grits can elevate them to a new level.

Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili flakes for a warming kick. You can also mix in hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a zesty, flavorful twist.

These spicy grits pair especially well with fried chicken or grilled sausage.

4. Bacon Grits

For an added smoky flavor and crunch, crumbled bacon is a fantastic addition to your grits.

You can either mix the bacon into the grits while they cook, or use it as a garnish on top just before serving.

The salty, crispy texture of bacon adds a satisfying contrast to the smooth, creamy grits and is perfect for breakfast or brunch.

5. Veggie Grits

For a healthier spin, you can make vegetable-infused grits by adding sautéed vegetables.

Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or onions add color, texture, and flavor to your grits.

These vegetable grits make a delicious side dish for lighter meals or serve as a hearty vegetarian option on their own.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Cracker Barrel Grits!

Cracker Barrel grits are the epitome of Southern comfort food, with their rich, creamy texture and satisfying flavor.

Whether you stick with the classic recipe or explore one of the many variations, grits are a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste or occasion.

By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen and enjoy the comforting flavors of the South.

From classic cheesy grits to more adventurous variations like shrimp and grits or spicy grits, there’s no limit to the ways you can customize this dish.

Whether you’re serving them alongside a full Southern breakfast or as a side to dinner, Cracker Barrel-style grits are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cracker Barrel Grits

1. Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground grits?

While you can use instant grits as a shortcut, stone-ground grits are preferred for their superior texture and flavor.

Stone-ground grits take longer to cook but create a creamier, heartier consistency that’s closer to what you would find at Cracker Barrel.

2. How do I keep grits from getting too thick?

If your grits become too thick as they cool, you can easily fix this by adding a little more milk or water and stirring them gently.

If you’re cooking them ahead of time, store the grits in an airtight container in the fridge and add a splash of liquid when reheating to bring them back to their creamy consistency.

3. Can I make grits ahead of time?

Yes, you can make grits ahead of time! Simply prepare the grits as directed, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra milk or water to get them creamy again.

4. How do I make my grits creamier?

To make your grits extra creamy, add more milk or even a splash of heavy cream.

Stir in some butter as well during the cooking process.

For extra richness, you can also incorporate a bit of cheese or a small amount of cream cheese.

5. Can I freeze leftover grits?

Yes, you can freeze leftover grits! Store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and they will last for up to 3 months.

When ready to eat, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a bit of added milk to restore their creamy texture.