Goat Cheese & Sweet Corn Grits Recipe
Introduction
Goat Cheese & Sweet Corn Grits combine creamy, tangy goat cheese with the natural sweetness of fresh corn. This comforting dish is perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main. Its smooth texture and rich flavors will delight any home cook looking for a twist on classic grits.

Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup grits (not quick-cooking)
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups chopped Spanish onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn)
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, and 1 teaspoon salt. Heat over medium-high until it begins to boil. Slowly pour in the grits while whisking quickly for 2 minutes to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Step 2: While the grits cook, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and corn kernels, cooking for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Transfer the corn mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Carefully vent the blender lid after 10 seconds to release steam and prevent buildup.
- Step 4: Once the grits are tender, stir in the pureed corn mixture. Add goat cheese gradually, about 1 ounce at a time, stirring until it fully melts into the grits. Serve the dish immediately while warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use stone-ground grits for a more authentic texture and flavor.
- Swap goat cheese for feta or cream cheese if you prefer a milder taste.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or chives to brighten the dish.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Storage
Store leftover grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Stir well to combine and heat evenly.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use quick-cooking grits for this recipe?
Quick-cooking grits can become mushy and won’t develop the same creamy texture as regular grits. It’s best to use regular or stone-ground grits for optimal results.
How do I prevent grits from clumping?
Whisk the grits slowly into boiling liquid and stir occasionally while cooking. This helps to prevent lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
PrintGoat Cheese & Sweet Corn Grits Recipe
This creamy and flavorful Goat Cheese & Sweet Corn Grits recipe offers a perfect combination of tender grits infused with fresh sweet corn and tangy goat cheese. A comforting Southern-inspired dish, it pairs the smooth texture of slowly cooked grits with a rich, pureed corn mixture, enhanced by aromatic onions and garlic, for an indulgent yet elegant side or main course.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Liquid Base and Grits
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup grits (not quick-cooking)
Corn Mixture
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups chopped Spanish onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 4 ounces goat cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: Pour water, milk, butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt into a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to boil. Once boiling, very slowly pour in the grits while whisking rapidly for 2 minutes to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure creamy, lump-free grits.
- Cook the Corn Mixture: While the grits simmer, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped Spanish onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and fresh corn kernels, cooking together for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Puree the Corn Mixture: Transfer the cooked corn mixture to a blender. Carefully blend until smooth, allowing steam to vent after about 10 seconds to prevent pressure buildup. The result should be a creamy corn puree.
- Combine and Finish: Once the grits are cooked and creamy, stir in the pureed corn mixture thoroughly. Add the goat cheese in approximately 1-ounce increments, stirring each addition until fully melted into the grits. Serve the dish immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use regular grits rather than quick-cooking for the best texture.
- Stir the grits occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and clumping.
- When blending hot ingredients, vent the blender lid to release steam safely.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper at the end according to taste.
- Serve immediately as the grits thicken upon standing.
Keywords: goat cheese grits, sweet corn grits, creamy grits recipe, Southern side dish, vegetarian grits

