The South has a secret, and that secret is grits. Grits are an awesome Southern standard that are rich, creamy, and surprisingly simple to make. Even though every spoonful of grits tastes like a million bucks, they are secretly one of the cheapest recipes you could ever make. Let’s break it down:
- 2 cups whole milk – $1.25
- 1 cup grits or coarse-ground cornmeal – $.67
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – $.50
- water, salt, and pepper
Total: $6.92, or $1.73 a serving
Less than $2 a serving for a super rich and filling meal is a steal in my book. These grits will cost a bit more if you decide to throw some cheese in, but it will be worth it. The great thing about grits is that they go well with just about anything, and you can dress them up in a million ways.
Tips & Tricks for How to Make Grits
- Whisk constantly! This will help break up lumps and keep your grits smooth.
- Generously season the water and milk with salt so that your grits have flavor.
- Add plenty of cheese. Cheddar is a great choice, but feel free to experiment.
- Add a splash of heavy cream to the finished grits for added richness.
- Top your grits with bacon or sausage for a filling breakfast.
More Affordable Grits Recipes
- Simple Southern Grits (shown above) – The back-to-basics grits recipe you need to know how to make.
- Best Baked Cheese Grits – Rich and cheesy, this grits casserole is so satisfying.
- Garlic Parmesan Grits – This recipe takes basic grits and dresses them up with flavor.
- Smothered Southern Grits – Smother your grits in flavor! These grits are topped with plenty of vegetables.
More Southern Cooking “How-Tos”
How to Make Apple Pie
How to Make Cornbread
How to Make Pulled Pork
What is your favorite “secretly cheap” recipe?
Editor at FaveSouthernRecipes
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I eat my grits like a cereal with milk and sugar, that is the only way to eat them. delish!!
Just an accounting note: the total for the ingredients you posted is $2.42 total or less than 0.61 per serving, assuming it makes 4 servings! Better yet!
Personally, I didn’t learn to eat grits until I lived in South Carolina as a young adult. Lots of butter and a little salt … yummm.