Krystal's Southern-style grits feature creamy, stone-ground cornmeal cooked to a smooth, velvety texture, making a comforting and hearty side dish with a subtly sweet, buttery flavor.
Equipments
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Ladle
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Stone-ground grits are essential for achieving the authentic creamy texture and subtly sweet, buttery flavor characteristic of Krystal's Southern-style grits. Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan helps prevent scorching as you cook the mixture slowly while stirring with a wooden spoon or whisk. Whole milk enriches the grits, making them smoother and more velvety compared to water alone, while unsalted butter enhances richness without overpowering the taste. If you prefer a cheesy twist, adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese transforms the dish into a flavorful, savory side. Your perfect bowl of grits from the Krystal copycat menu relies on these carefully chosen ingredients to replicate the original's comforting taste.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Bring 4 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt to a boil in the heavy-bottomed saucepan.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup stone-ground grits.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon.
- After 10 minutes, add 1 cup whole milk and continue cooking.
- Stir often to prevent sticking, simmering for 25-30 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
- Optional: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted.
- Ladle grits into serving bowls and serve warm.
Substitution
Krystal's Southern-style grits are made using stone-ground cornmeal, creating a thick, creamy base rich with a buttery undertone that complements many dishes. If stone-ground grits are unavailable, you can substitute with quick-cooking grits, but expect a slightly different texture and shorter cooking time. When preparing, gradually whisk the grits into boiling water to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency. You can adjust the richness by swapping whole milk for half-and-half or cream according to your preference and dietary needs. Adding sharp cheddar cheese enhances the flavor, but feel free to omit or replace it with your favorite cheese for a unique twist.
Tips
Stone-ground grits require constant stirring to prevent lumps and sticking, so use your wooden spoon often throughout the simmering process. Keep the heat low to avoid burning the grits on the bottom of your heavy-bottomed saucepan. Adding milk gradually improves creaminess, so do not rush this step or the texture may become grainy. Finally, you can enhance the flavor by stirring in sharp cheddar cheese after removing the grits from heat, giving your dish a rich, savory touch.
Nutritions
Krystal's Southern-style grits are rich in complex carbohydrates from stone-ground cornmeal, providing a steady energy source. The addition of whole milk and unsalted butter contributes essential fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A and D for your overall health. Including sharp cheddar cheese increases protein and calcium content, supporting muscle function and bone strength. This creamy dish is low in sodium if prepared without excess salt, making it a balanced, nutrient-dense comfort food option.
Storage
Store your cooked grits in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness. Consume within 3-4 days and reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to restore their creamy texture. Freezing is possible, but separate portions in freezer-safe containers to avoid clumping and thaw thoroughly before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute half of the water with chicken broth for a richer, savory flavor. Instead of whole milk, try using cream or buttermilk to enhance the grits' creaminess and tang. For a smoky twist, add crumbled cooked bacon or diced smoked sausage during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Using a slow simmer and stirring constantly with the wooden spoon helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
Allergies
Krystal's Southern-style grits contain dairy ingredients such as whole milk, unsalted butter, and optional shredded sharp cheddar cheese, which may cause allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The grits themselves are made from stone-ground cornmeal, a gluten-free ingredient, but cross-contamination may occur depending on processing facilities. If you have specific food allergies, carefully check labels and ingredient sources to ensure the dish is safe for your consumption.
Why this recipe?
Krystal's Grits menu captivates customers with its creamy texture and savory flavor, creating a comforting Southern staple that pairs perfectly with various breakfast and dinner options. The use of high-quality ingredients and a distinctive seasoning blend makes the Grits stand out among fast-food renditions. You can recreate this beloved dish at home by following a copycat recipe, ensuring authentic taste and freshness while saving money. Trying the copycat version allows you to enjoy a classic Krystal favorite anytime without waiting in line.