The Magic of Pressure Cooker Grits: No More Stovetop Stirring!

For generations, grits have been a beloved comfort food, particularly in the American South. Traditionally, cooking grits on the stovetop involves diligent monitoring and frequent stirring to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. This can be time-consuming, especially when you’re juggling other breakfast preparations or holiday meals for a large gathering.

Enter the electric pressure cooker, like the Crock Pot Express or Instant Pot! This modern kitchen marvel completely transforms the grits-making process. By creating a high-pressure environment, the cooker drastically reduces cooking time and eliminates the need for constant supervision. The result? Perfectly hydrated, tender grits that are consistently creamy, without any burnt bits at the bottom of the pot. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves grits but dislikes the lengthy, hands-on preparation that was once a requirement.

This method isn’t just about saving time; it’s about optimizing flavor and texture. The sealed environment of the pressure cooker locks in moisture and infuses the grits with the flavors of butter, cheese, and any seasonings you choose to add, creating a more robust and satisfying dish. The high-pressure steam ensures each corn kernel is thoroughly cooked and softened, producing a uniform, velvety texture that’s hard to achieve with conventional methods. Whether you call them Crock Pot Express grits or Instant Pot grits, the outcome is the same: effortless perfection and a truly delightful eating experience.

What Are Grits and Why We Love Them

Grits are a porridge made from boiled cornmeal. They are a staple in the Southern United States, often served for breakfast with butter, salt, and sometimes sugar, but they also make an excellent savory side dish for lunch or dinner. The type of corn used and how it’s processed can vary, leading to different varieties like stone-ground, regular, quick, and instant grits.

For this pressure cooker recipe, we highly recommend using old-fashioned or regular ground grits. While instant grits might seem appealing for speed, the pressure cooker already provides rapid cooking, and old-fashioned grits offer a superior texture and flavor that truly shines through in this dish. Their coarser grind holds up beautifully under pressure, resulting in a delightfully toothsome yet creamy bite that is far more satisfying than the often mushy texture of instant varieties.

Grits are incredibly versatile. They can be a blank canvas for a myriad of flavors, from sweet additions like brown sugar and berries to savory toppings like crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or even succulent pressure cooker shrimp. The adaptability of grits means they can easily transition from a simple breakfast to an elegant dinner accompaniment. In this recipe, we focus on the classic cheesy and buttery rendition, which is arguably one of the most popular and satisfying ways to enjoy them – a true celebration of Southern comfort food.

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Cheesy Grits

Creating delicious Crock Pot Express grits requires just a few pantry staples. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its core components, ensuring maximum flavor with minimal fuss:

• Old-Fashioned Grits: As previously emphasized, these provide the best texture and flavor for pressure cooking. Look for “regular” or “old-fashioned” grits, specifically avoiding “quick” or “instant” types which cook too fast and can become gummy.
• Water: Essential for cooking the grits to their perfect fluffy and tender consistency. Using the right water-to-grits ratio in a pressure cooker is crucial for optimal results.
• Melted Butter: The secret to rich, indulgent flavor and a smooth, luxurious mouthfeel. Butter is non-negotiable for truly delicious grits, and melting it before mixing ensures it’s evenly distributed throughout the dish.
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is a classic and highly recommended choice, offering a sharp, tangy complement to the creamy grits. For variety, feel free to experiment with Gruyere, Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist.
• Milk (or Half & Half/Cream): Added at the end of the cooking process to achieve that desirable creamy, rich, and “soupier” texture. The amount can be adjusted to your personal preference; more milk will yield a looser consistency.
• Salt, Chives, & Pepper: Basic seasonings that are vital for enhancing the overall flavor profile. Salt balances the richness, pepper adds a subtle warmth, and fresh chives contribute a vibrant, oniony note that brightens the entire dish.

For optimal results, using fresh, quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture of your grits. And remember, the beauty of this recipe is its adaptability – consider these a starting point for your culinary creativity! Feel free to adjust quantities based on your taste preferences.

Equipment You’ll Need

Making pressure cooker grits is incredibly straightforward, but having the right tools makes the process even smoother and safer:

• Electric Pressure Cooker: This recipe is specifically tailored for models like the Crock Pot Express or any similar multi-cooker (e.g., Instant Pot, Ninja Foodi) with a “High Pressure” setting. Ensure your cooker is clean and in good working order.
• Inner Pot (Pot-in-Pot Method): A smaller, heat-safe, oven-safe bowl or pot that fits comfortably inside your pressure cooker’s main pot. This is crucial for preventing the grits from scorching directly on the bottom, ensuring even cooking, and making cleanup a breeze. A stainless steel bowl, ceramic baking dish, or even a glass Pyrex bowl (ensure it’s oven-safe for high temperatures) works well.
• Trivet: Most pressure cookers come equipped with a metal trivet. This accessory is essential as it allows your inner pot to sit elevated above the water in the main pressure cooker pot, facilitating the pot-in-pot cooking method and preventing the inner pot from direct contact with the heating element.
• Aluminum Foil: Used to tightly cover your inner pot containing the grits. This prevents condensation and steam from dripping into the grits, ensuring a consistent texture and preventing them from becoming watery.
• Small Oven Mitts or Silicone Sling: For safely removing the hot inner pot from the pressure cooker after cooking. The contents will be very hot, so exercising caution is paramount. A silicone sling makes lifting the pot out particularly easy.

Utilizing the “pot-in-pot” method is a key technique for cooking delicate foods like grits in a pressure cooker. It provides indirect heat, which is gentler on the ingredients, preventing them from sticking and burning, and consistently results in a perfectly smooth and creamy consistency every time. This method also minimizes cleanup, as your main pressure cooker pot remains relatively clean.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crock Pot Express Grits

Follow these simple instructions to prepare your creamy, cheesy grits in your pressure cooker in no time:

1. Prepare the Pressure Cooker: Pour 1.5 cups of water directly into the main pot of your Crock Pot Express or electric pressure cooker. Carefully place the trivet inside the main pot, ensuring it sits flat at the bottom.
2. Combine Grits Mixture: In your separate, heat-safe cooking pot (the one that fits snugly inside your pressure cooker), combine 1 cup of old-fashioned grits, 2.5 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, along with salt, chopped chives, and pepper to taste. Stir all these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined.
3. Cover and Position: Tightly cover the cooking pot containing the grits mixture with aluminum foil, ensuring the foil is securely crimped around the edges. This prevents any condensation from dripping into the grits during cooking. Carefully lower this covered pot onto the trivet inside your pressure cooker.
4. Seal and Cook: Close the lid of your pressure cooker and make sure the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position (or “Closed”). Select the “Multigrain” or “Manual/Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time for 15 minutes on “High Pressure.” Once the settings are confirmed, press start.
5. Release Pressure: Once the cooking cycle is complete, the pressure cooker will beep. Immediately perform a quick release of pressure by carefully opening the steam valve (using tongs or a cloth to protect your hands from the hot steam). Allow all the steam to escape until the float valve drops, indicating it’s safe to open the lid.
6. Finish and Serve: Using oven mitts or a silicone sling, carefully lift the hot inner pot out of the pressure cooker. Remove the foil cover. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese (or more, to your liking) and stir vigorously until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the grits, making them smooth and creamy. Gradually stir in 1 cup of milk, adding more if you prefer a thinner, “soupier” consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Your easy Crock Pot Express grits are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them hot with your favorite additional toppings or as a delightful side dish.

Tips & Variations for Your Pressure Cooker Grits

While the basic recipe is fantastic on its own, here are some tips to perfect your grits and ideas for exciting variations that will elevate your culinary experience:

Achieving the Perfect Creaminess: Milk vs. Water

The original recipe intelligently uses both water and milk for the best results, a technique perfected through Southern cooking traditions. Water is used during the initial pressure cooking phase to allow the grits to fully hydrate and fluff up without becoming overly mushy or sticky. The neutral nature of water allows the corn flavor of the grits to develop cleanly. The milk, cream, or half & half is then stirred in at the end, off the heat, to achieve that desirable rich, creamy, and velvety texture. This two-stage approach ensures your grits are both perfectly cooked and luxuriously smooth, avoiding the gummy texture that can result from cooking grits entirely in milk under pressure. Adjust the amount of milk based on how thick or “soupier” you prefer your grits; adding a little extra can create a truly decadent consistency.

Flavor Enhancements and Toppings

Grits are an incredibly versatile dish and can be customized to suit any palate, making them suitable for any meal of the day. Here are some popular additions and creative ideas:

• Classic Cheesy: Beyond cheddar, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for maximum flavor complexity. A dash of cream cheese can also add extra tang and richness.
• Herbaceous Touches: Fresh chives, chopped green onions, finely minced parsley, or even a hint of fresh thyme can add a fresh, aromatic dimension. Stir them in just before serving to preserve their vibrant color and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a small amount of finely diced jalapeño can add a welcome zing.
• Savory Add-ins:
  • Bacon or Sausage: Crispy crumbled bacon, cooked breakfast sausage, or finely diced ham bits are traditional and hearty additions, perfect for a filling breakfast.
  • Shrimp & Grits: A quintessential Southern classic! Sautéed shrimp with garlic, bell peppers, and Cajun spices served over a generous helping of cheesy grits creates an unforgettable meal.
  • Eggs: Fried, poached, or scrambled eggs make an excellent pairing, turning your grits into a complete and satisfying breakfast plate.
  • Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, carmelized onions, or diced bell peppers can add flavor, texture, and nutrients, transforming the grits into a more robust side.
• Sweet Grits (for a different twist): While savory is traditional, grits can also be enjoyed sweet.
  • Stir in brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
  • Drizzle with maple syrup or honey.
  • Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, and a dollop of whipped cream or a pat of butter.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! The key is to add your chosen ingredients at the end, after the pressure cooking is complete, to maintain their optimal texture and flavor. This ensures that delicate herbs don’t become overcooked and cheeses melt smoothly without seizing.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Crock Pot Express grits are incredibly versatile and can be the star or a supporting player in a wide array of meals:

• As a comforting and hearty breakfast, served simply with more butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
• A delicious brunch item alongside fresh fruit, pastries, and a protein like bacon or sausage.
• A satisfying and savory side dish for grilled chicken, baked fish, pan-seared scallops, or a juicy steak.
• The perfect base for a classic Southern “Shrimp and Grits” dinner, showcasing its regional culinary heritage.
• A quick and easy snack anytime you need a warm, comforting treat.

Easy Crock Pot Express Grits Recipe

Easy Crock Pot Express Grits

By
Justine

Whip up these simple and delicious Crock Pot Express grits for a satisfying breakfast or a hearty side dish. This easy pressure cooker recipe delivers cheesy, buttery grits in minutes, eliminating the need for constant stirring. Just combine ingredients, set your cooker, and enjoy this traditional favorite with your preferred toppings!

Prep:

5 minutes
mins

Cook:

15 minutes
mins

Total:

20 minutes
mins

Servings:
6

Print Recipe

Equipment

• 1 pressure cooker
• 1 Heat-safe Inner Pot (Pot-in-Pot method)
• Trivet (usually comes with your pressure cooker)
• Aluminum Foil
• Small Oven Mitts or Silicone Sling

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp butter, melted (plus more for serving, if desired)
• 2.5 c water (for grits mixture)
• 1 c shredded cheese, (e.g., cheddar, or more to taste)
• 1 c old-fashioned ground grits
• 2 tsp chives, chopped (optional, plus more for garnish)
• 1 c milk, (or half & half/cream, adjusted for desired consistency)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1.5 c water (for pressure cooker pot)

Instructions

1. Pour 1.5 cups of water into the main pot of your Crock Pot Express or pressure cooker. Place the trivet inside.
2. In a separate, heat-safe cooking pot (that fits inside your CPE), mix together 1 cup of grits, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, 2.5 cups of water, and salt, chives, and pepper (if desired) until well combined.
3. Tightly cover the grits pot with aluminum foil. Carefully lower this covered pot onto the trivet in your pressure cooker. Close the lid and set the steam valve to “Sealing.”
4. Select the “Multigrain” or “Manual/Pressure Cook” setting on high pressure for 15 minutes. Press start.
5. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of pressure. Carefully lift the hot grits pot out using oven mitts or a silicone sling.
6. Uncover the pot. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Then, stir in 1 cup of milk, adding more if you desire a thinner consistency. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings!

Nutrition

Serving: 3oz,
Calories: 151kcal,
Carbohydrates: 2g,
Protein: 6g,
Fat: 13g,
Saturated Fat: 8g,
Cholesterol: 39mg,
Sodium: 190mg,
Potassium: 72mg,
Sugar: 2g,
Vitamin A: 445IU,
Vitamin C: 0.2mg,
Calcium: 187mg,
Iron: 0.1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course:
Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine:
American

Tried this recipe?Mention @thetypical_mom or tag #thetypicalmom!

Helpful Resources for Pressure Cooking Enthusiasts

If you’re as enthusiastic about pressure cooking as we are, or if you’re just starting your journey into the world of electric pressure cookers, these resources can be incredibly helpful for expanding your culinary skills and confidence:

• Explore more Crockpot Express recipes on our site to discover a wide variety of meals you can make quickly and easily with your pressure cooker, from hearty dinners to quick desserts.
• Consider grabbing a free Crock Pot Express cookbook here. Cookbooks are excellent resources for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering new ideas and guiding you through different cooking techniques.
• Keep these handy Crockpot Express cooking times as a quick reference. This chart will be invaluable when you’re experimenting with new ingredients or adapting your favorite stovetop recipes for pressure cooking.

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