Breakfast · Bahamian

Simple Stovetop Grits

Priya Nair

Recipe by Priya Nair

Breakfast & spice-forward cooking · October 20, 2026

Creamy, comforting grits come together with just three pantry staples and a little patience. This small batch is perfect for a quick breakfast, and you can dress it up any way you like.

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Simple Stovetop Grits

Why you'll love this

  • Ready in under 20 minutes with pantry basics.
  • A blank canvas for sweet or savory toppings.
  • Naturally vegetarian and budget-friendly.
  • Easy enough for a beginner cook.

EveryDayMeal recipe

Simple Stovetop Grits

Prep
2m
Cook
15m
Total
17m
Serves
1
Level
Easy

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup grits
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup water

Equipment

  • Small saucepan with lid
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Pour the water and salt into a small saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat so the salt dissolves evenly.
  2. Slowly whisk in the grits while stirring, which keeps them from clumping and helps them cook smooth.
  3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the grits simmer gently, stirring occasionally so they do not stick or scorch on the bottom.
  4. Cook for about 15 minutes, until the grits are thick, soft, and creamy with no raw graininess left. Add a splash more water if they get too stiff.
  5. Remove from the heat and let them cool slightly before serving, since grits thicken as they rest.

Tips from the kitchen

  • Whisk the grits in gradually instead of dumping them all at once, which prevents lumps.
  • Stir in a pat of butter or a splash of milk at the end for richer, creamier grits.
  • If the grits thicken too much, loosen them with a little hot water or milk before serving.

Estimated nutrition per serving: 150 cal · 3g protein · 32g carbs · 1g fat

Make it your own

  • Stir in shredded cheddar and a crack of black pepper for cheesy grits.
  • Swap half the water for milk for a richer, creamier bowl.
  • Top with butter and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet version.

Storing & make-ahead

Store leftover grits in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or milk, stirring until smooth again.

Good to know

Why are my grits lumpy?
Lumps usually form when the grits go in too fast. Whisk them in slowly while stirring and keep stirring as they cook.
Can I use quick grits?
Yes. Quick grits cook in about 5 minutes, so check the package timing and adjust accordingly.
How do I make them creamier?
Use milk in place of some or all of the water, and stir in butter or cheese at the end.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Keep the ratio of 4 parts liquid to 1 part grits and adjust the pot size as needed.

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