fbpx

What to Serve With Cheesy Grits: 15 Best Side Dishes

Cheesy grits are a comforting Southern staple, and pairing them with the right sides can make your meal irresistible. Consider crispy bacon, savory sausages, or succulent grilled shrimp for a flavorful boost. For a touch of crunch, fried chicken is perfect. Add some healthy veggies like sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or a fresh tomato salad. Creamy avocado slices or a poached egg can take your dish to the next level. Cornbread is a classic, hearty companion, while a dash of hot sauce adds a tangy kick. These pairings will transform your cheesy grits into a delightful feast—discover more amazing combinations next.

Crispy Bacon

bacon cooked until crispy

What could complement the creamy texture of cheesy grits better than the savory crunch of crispy bacon? This breakfast favorite brings a delightful contrast, enhancing every bite with its crispy texture and rich flavor.

The saltiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the smooth, cheesy grits, making it a classic and irresistible combination for any morning meal.

Enjoy this timeless duo!

Savory Sausages

delicious grilled sausage links

Savory sausages provide a hearty and flavorful accompaniment to cheesy grits, adding a robust and satisfying element to the dish.

Breakfast links bring a subtle, familiar taste that pairs well with creamy grits, while spicy chorizo offers a bolder, more adventurous flavor.

The combination of these sausages with cheesy grits creates a delightful balance of comforting and exciting tastes.

Grilled Shrimp

delicious seafood barbecue option

Grilled shrimp add a succulent and slightly smoky flavor that complements the creamy richness of cheesy grits.

For marinade options, consider a mix of garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Grilling techniques vary, but aim for a medium-high heat to guarantee the shrimp are perfectly cooked, retaining their juiciness.

This pairing creates a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Fried Chicken

crunchy savory comfort food

Another classic accompaniment to cheesy grits is fried chicken, which brings a crispy texture and savory flavor that complements the creamy dish perfectly.

The chicken is often soaked in a buttermilk marinade, allowing it to stay tender and juicy. Coated with a southern seasoning blend, it is then fried to golden perfection, creating a mouthwatering contrast to the rich, cheesy grits.

Sautéed Spinach

delicious and healthy greens

Sautéed spinach provides a nutritious and vibrant side dish that pairs exquisitely with the richness of cheesy grits.

Packed with health benefits, spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.

For preparation tips, simply heat olive oil, add garlic, and sauté the spinach until wilted.

This quick and easy method guarantees a delightful, nutrient-rich complement to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables

healthy and delicious option

In addition to sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables offer a flavorful and hearty side dish that enhances the creamy texture of cheesy grits.

Opt for a seasonal selection of vegetables to guarantee freshness and vibrant flavors. Ideal flavor pairing options include carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers.

Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the rich, savory grits.

Blackened Catfish

delicious southern dish option

Elevate your cheesy grits with the bold, smoky flavors of blackened catfish, a Southern classic that adds a robust and satisfying element to the meal.

Using cooking techniques like searing in a hot skillet, the catfish is coated with a blend of spices. Seasoning variations can include paprika, cayenne, and thyme, creating a dish that's both flavorful and visually appealing.

Poached Eggs

delicious breakfast treat option

Perfectly poached eggs add a delicate yet rich complement to the creamy texture of cheesy grits. Utilizing simple egg preparation techniques, poached eggs bring an element of sophistication to this breakfast pairing.

The silky yolk mingles seamlessly with the grits, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This combination offers an inviting and satisfying start to the day, perfect for any breakfast table.

BBQ Ribs

savory and tender ribs

Pairing cheesy grits with succulent BBQ ribs creates a mouthwatering combination that balances creamy richness with smoky, savory flavors.

The slow cooking process of BBQ ribs guarantees tender meat infused with a deep smoky flavor, which perfectly complements the smooth texture of cheesy grits.

This duo offers a harmonious blend of tastes and textures, making it a delightful and satisfying meal option.

Collard Greens

delicious southern soul food

Consistently providing a nutritious and flavorful complement to cheesy grits, collard greens bring a robust, earthy taste that enhances the overall dining experience.

Known for their health benefits, these greens are rich in vitamins and fiber. Traditional preparation often involves slow-cooking with smoked meat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

This method guarantees a tender texture, making collard greens a perfect side dish.

Garlic Mushrooms

saut ed with butter and herbs

Garlic mushrooms, with their rich umami flavor and aromatic qualities, serve as a delightful side dish to cheesy grits.

Sautéed in garlic butter, these mushrooms bring depth and warmth to the meal.

You can use a variety of mushroom types, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, each adding its unique texture and taste.

Together, they create a harmonious and savory experience.

Tomato Salad

delicious summer picnic dish

A lively tomato salad, bursting with fresh flavors and crisp textures, beautifully complements the creamy richness of cheesy grits. Using heirloom varieties adds a delightful range of colors and tastes.

A simple balsamic drizzle enhances the natural sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes, creating a balanced dish. This rejuvenating, light side dish pairs perfectly, adding an invigorating contrast to the hearty grits.

Avocado Slices

avocado is sliced finely

Sliced avocado provides a creamy, nutritious complement to the savory, rich flavors of cheesy grits. Packed with health benefits, avocados are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

For serving suggestions, try drizzling lemon juice on the slices to enhance their flavor, or sprinkle a little salt and pepper. This simple addition elevates your dish, making it both delicious and wholesome.

Cornbread

savory homemade cornbread recipe

In addition to avocado slices, cornbread serves as a classic and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with cheesy grits.

With various cornmeal varieties to choose from, cornbread offers texture and flavor that complements the creamy grits.

A generous butter topping enhances its rich taste, making it an inviting addition to any meal featuring cheesy grits.

Are the Best Side Dishes for Rolls also Suitable for Cheesy Grits?

When it comes to choosing the best side dishes for rolls, it’s important to consider how well they pair with cheesy grits. Classic options like garlic butter green beans or creamy mashed potatoes can complement the richness of cheesy grits and enhance the overall dining experience. Choose wisely.

Hot Sauce

fiery condiment for dishes

Drizzling hot sauce over cheesy grits introduces a tangy kick that elevates the dish's overall flavor profile.

Spicy varieties such as chipotle or habanero add a delightful heat, creating a flavor balance that complements the creamy texture of the grits.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, hot sauce is an excellent addition, enhancing both taste and enjoyment.