If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and oh-so-satisfying dish, this Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine creamy, smoky grits infused with the perfect blend of cheese and savory spices, effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker while you enjoy a busy day. This recipe captures that soul-soothing Southern charm, balanced perfectly with tender, smoky gouda and the fresh punch of green onions and tomatoes. It’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to please everyone at your table, whether for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe is wonderfully simple. Each one plays an essential role in creating that luscious texture and complex flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Stone ground grits: The heart of the dish, offering a creamy base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully — make sure to use stone ground for the best texture.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and richness that elevates the grits beyond plain water-cooked versions.
- Onion powder: A subtle hint of savory sweetness that gently complements the cheese.
- Garlic powder: Lends a comforting warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Shredded smoked gouda: Melts into the grits, bringing a delicious smoky creaminess that truly defines this recipe.
- Cooked bacon: Chopped pieces add a crispy, salty contrast and a touch of indulgence.
- Green onions: Freshly sliced for a mild onion bite and lovely color contrast.
- Tomato: Chopped to bring a juicy, fresh brightness that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Make Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by adding the stone ground grits, chicken broth, onion powder, and garlic powder into your slow cooker. This simple mix creates the foundation of our Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe. The chicken broth infuses savory flavor while the powders provide gentle seasoning that will mingle beautifully with the cheese later.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6 to 7 hours. This long, slow cooking process allows the grits to soften fully and absorb all those lovely flavors without any stirring needed. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing, and when the timer goes off, the grits will be rich, creamy, and perfectly tender.
Step 3: Stir in the Smoked Gouda
Once the grits have cooked, it’s time to stir in the shredded smoked gouda. The warm grits will melt the cheese into a silky, smoky, cheesy heaven that’s the hallmark of this recipe. At this stage, you can taste and adjust seasoning if needed before moving on.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
The final flourish comes from topping the grits with crispy chopped bacon, sliced green onions, and fresh chopped tomato. These vibrant toppings add texture, color, and a burst of freshness that lifts the dish perfectly.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are where this recipe shines in personality. The smoky bacon crisps add crunch and saltiness, while green onions bring a mild zing to complement the creamy grits. Fresh tomato adds bright acidity that cuts through the richness, making every bite well balanced and exciting.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe pairs wonderfully with just about anything from eggs and sausage for breakfast to seared chicken or sautéed greens for dinner. Consider serving alongside some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Spoon the grits into individual ramekins, top with bacon and green onions, then broil lightly to create a bubbling golden cheese crust. Or use it as a base under a hearty shrimp and andouille sausage skillet for a show-stopping Cajun twist. The possibilities are as endless as your appetite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The grits will firm up as they cool but can be refreshed easily with gentle reheating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the grits into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Keep in mind the texture might become a bit thicker after thawing, but a little stirring and a splash of broth during reheating will revive their creamy goodness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the grits gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and bring them back to their luscious, creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use instant or quick cook grits instead of stone ground?
For this Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe, stone ground grits are highly recommended because they retain texture and absorb flavors beautifully during the long cooking process. Instant or quick cook grits might become mushy and won’t offer the same creamy, satisfying bite.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon topping. You can add toasted nuts or sautéed mushrooms for a savory, satisfying alternative.
Can I prepare this dish without a slow cooker?
While this recipe shines in a slow cooker, you can make a stovetop version by simmering the grits gently with broth, stirring often to prevent lumps, and melting in the smoked gouda once thickened. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What kind of smoked gouda works best?
A good quality smoked gouda that’s freshly shredded works best to melt smoothly and impart that signature smoky flavor. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient but can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Can I add other cheeses or ingredients?
Feel free to experiment! Cheddar or Monterey Jack can blend well with smoked gouda, and ingredients like roasted peppers or fresh herbs can add new dimensions. Just keep the overall balance so the grits stay creamy and the smoked flavor remains the star.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe is a heartfelt, comforting dish that’s incredibly easy to make and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a special meal, these grits bring that perfect combo of creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors that warm the soul. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to savor grits.
Print
Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This creamy and savory Slow Cooker Smoked Gouda Grits recipe offers a comforting dish perfect for any brunch or dinner. Using stone ground grits cooked slowly in chicken broth, then enriched with smoky gouda cheese and topped with crisp bacon, fresh green onions, and chopped tomatoes, it combines smoky, cheesy, and fresh flavors in an effortlessly simple slow cooker preparation.
Ingredients
Grits Base
- 1½ cups stone ground grits (not instant or quick cook)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded smoked gouda
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 tomato, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the stone ground grits, chicken broth, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Cook the Grits: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, allowing the grits to slowly absorb the broth and become tender and creamy.
- Add Cheese: Once the grits are cooked, stir in the shredded smoked gouda cheese until melted and fully incorporated to create a rich and smoky flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the creamy grits with chopped cooked bacon, sliced green onions, and chopped tomato before serving to add texture and fresh flavors to the dish.
Notes
- Use stone ground grits for the best texture and flavor; instant or quick-cook grits will not yield the same creamy consistency.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen the grits.
- This dish pairs well with eggs or sautéed greens for a complete meal.
- Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed, especially depending on the sodium content of your broth and bacon.
