April 14th, 2026

National Grits Day

Time to grab a spoon and celebrate the creamy, dreamy delight that is grits! Whether you like them with butter, cheese, or even a little bit of sugar (no judgment here), National Grits Day is all about savoring this classic Southern dish. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, grits are the ultimate comfort food. So, gather 'round the table with your favorite toppings and enjoy this versatile, warm hug in a bowl. It's a day to give thanks for corn's glorious transformation into this magical, mushy marvel. Grits lovers unite!

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Written by: Lisa Chang Lisa Chang - (updated: April 13th, 2025 at 9:45AM)

The Heartwarming Story Behind National Grits DayNationalGritsDay

Each year, a special day rolls around that brings folks from the Southern United States—and beyond—together to celebrate a beloved culinary staple: grits. National Grits Day is a joyous occasion that pays homage to the creamy, comforting goodness of ground corn, often enjoyed with a pat of butter, a sprinkle of cheese, or a dash of hot sauce.

Traditionally, grits are savored during a hearty breakfast or brunch, accompanied by other Southern favorites like crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and flaky biscuits. This cultural tradition is steeped in nostalgia and warmth, evoking cherished memories of family gatherings, cozy mornings, and the simple pleasures of life.

What Are Grits, Anyway?

Grits are essentially ground corn kernels that have undergone a process of soaking in limewater to remove the hull. Once dried, they are ground into a coarse, creamy consistency. This versatile dish can be cooked with water or milk to create a rich, velvety porridge that's simply irresistible.

While grits can be paired with a myriad of flavors and toppings, traditional Southern-style grits are often served with a generous helping of butter, salt, and pepper. Of course, modern-day grits enthusiasts enjoy getting creative with their toppings, from succulent shrimp and fresh scallions to spicy jalapeños and sharp cheddar cheese.

A Celebration of Community and Comfort

At its core, National Grits Day is a celebration of community and comfort. It's a time for friends and family to gather 'round the table, sharing stories, laughter, and a warm, comforting meal that's steeped in tradition and nostalgia.

Whether you're a born-and-bred Southerner or simply a grits enthusiast, this holiday is the perfect excuse to dive into a bowl of creamy goodness and savor the simple pleasures in life. So why not gather your loved ones, whip up a pot of grits, and celebrate the joy of coming together over this time-honored dish?

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Grits Day

Ultimately, National Grits Day is all about embracing the warm, comforting goodness of this beloved Southern staple. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and dig in—your taste buds (and your sense of community) will surely thank you!

Happy National Grits Day, y'all!

Recipe for National Grits Day

As we celebrate National Grits Day, let's take a moment to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of this beloved Southern staple. From humble beginnings as a simple ground corn porridge to its current status as a breakfast icon, grits have won the hearts of many. In honor of this special day, we're sharing a recipe that puts a creative twist on the classic dish, infusing it with the sweetness of caramel and the crunch of pecans. Introducing our Caramel Pecan Grits Crème Brûlée!



Nutrition Facts
Calories300 calories
Total Fat15g
Total Carbohydrate40g
Protein5g

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Cooking Method: Baking

Category: Dessert

Cuisine: Southern

Yield: 6 servings

Suitable For Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

NationalPorkRindAppreciationDay recipe

Materials

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring the heavy cream, sugar, and salt to a boil over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
  3. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, caramel sauce, and chopped pecans until well combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm grits mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
  6. Pour the mixture into ramekins and place them in a large baking dish. Add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
  8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin. Caramelize the sugar with a torch or under the broiler.
Timeline
1607
Grits Introduced to North America
English settlers bring corn, a staple ingredient in grits, to North America, introducing the dish to the continent.
1820
Grits Become Southern Staple
Grits become a staple food in the Southern United States, particularly in the Lowcountry region of the Carolinas and Georgia.
1976
National Grits Festival Founded
The first National Grits Festival is held in St. George, South Carolina, solidifying the dishs importance in Southern cuisine.
1980
Grits Gain Nationwide Popularity
Grits begin to gain popularity nationwide, with increased availability in restaurants and grocery stores across the United States.
2014
National Grits Day Officially Recognized
National Grits Day is officially recognized, with fans encouraged to celebrate the beloved Southern dish.
National Grits Day

National Grits Day Quiz

What is the primary ingredient in traditional grits?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is the origin of grits?
Grits originated in the Southern United States, where Native Americans introduced European settlers to ground corn. The dish became a staple in Southern cuisine, particularly in the Gullah Geechee community.
What are some popular grits recipes?
Some popular grits recipes include shrimp and grits, cheese grits, and breakfast grits with eggs and bacon. You can also try flavored grits with ingredients like garlic, herbs, or spices.
What is the difference between grits and polenta?
Grits and polenta are both made from ground corn, but grits are typically made from dent corn, which is higher in starch and produces a creamier texture. Polenta, on the other hand, is made from flint corn and has a coarser texture.
How can I make grits a healthier option?
You can make grits a healthier option by using stone-ground grits, which retain more nutrients and fiber than steel-ground grits. You can also add in vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to increase the nutritional value of your grits dish.
What are some fun facts about grits?
Grits are a staple in Southern cuisine, and the worlds largest pot of grits was cooked in 2008 in Georgia. Grits are also a popular comfort food, with many people having strong emotional attachments to the dish.
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