If you’re looking for a comforting, savory dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, this Cream Cheese Grits with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe is an absolute game changer. Combining the creamy richness of melted cream cheese and Parmesan with the crunchy, flavorful punch of everything bagel seasoning, these grits bring breakfast and brunch vibes to a whole new level. Whether you’re craving a warm start to the day or a hearty side for dinner, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a bowl of pure joy that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shallow white bowl with a dark rim holds a creamy light green porridge base. Inside the porridge, there are three main toppings: a white creamy dollop on the left, a mound of finely grated white cheese on the right, and a square of melting butter with a yellow tint near the front edge. The bowl sits on a beige textured cloth, against a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, there is a green cup with a wooden handle and a black kettle placed on a wooden board. A golden spoon rests on the surface just outside the bowl, and a woman's hand is not visible but implied nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cream Cheese Grits with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes something special—from the smooth texture of cream cheese to the savory pop of the seasoning blend—making every bite balanced and flavorful.

1 cup old-fashioned grits: Regular or quick-cooking (not instant) grits provide the creamy base with a wonderful texture.
¼ cup cream cheese: Adds luscious creaminess and a subtle tang that elevates the grits.
3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth of flavor that complements the cream cheese perfectly.
2 tbsp unsalted butter: Enhances richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
¼ tsp Kosher or fine sea salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the grits.
2 tsp everything bagel seasoning: The star seasoning blend providing seeds, garlic, and onion crunch in every bite.
4 tsp chopped fresh chives: Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of green color for garnish.

How to Make Cream Cheese Grits with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

Start by cooking your grits according to the package instructions. Whether you have old-fashioned or quick-cooking grits, make sure they’re creamy and tender but still hold a slight bite to keep the texture interesting.

Step 2: Stir in the Cream Cheese and Cheese

Once the grits are cooked and still warm, remove them from heat. Immediately add the cream cheese, grated Parmesan, butter, and salt. Stir vigorously until everything has melted and melded into a smooth, creamy consistency that tastes like pure comfort in a bowl.

Step 3: Add Everything Bagel Seasoning and Chives

Divide the grits evenly into four bowls. Sprinkle each serving with about ½ teaspoon of everything bagel seasoning and a teaspoon of freshly chopped chives. This final touch not only wakes up the flavor but also adds an irresistible crunch and freshness.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give your grits a gentle taste test. Feel free to add a pinch more salt, a little butter, or an extra dash of everything bagel seasoning to suit your palate perfectly. The beauty of this recipe is how customizable it is to your liking before serving immediately.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Grits with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe

A white speckled bowl filled with creamy white rice porridge, topped with small pieces of green spring onion, black sesame seeds, and golden toasted bits sprinkled evenly on the surface. A black spoon with a gold handle is placed inside the porridge on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a beige textured cloth nearby. In the background, there is a green pot with a wooden handle and white inside, slightly out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Besides the fresh chives and everything bagel seasoning sprinkled on top, you can get creative with garnishes like a poached egg for extra richness or a little crumbled bacon for smoky crunch. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill also pair beautifully if you want a green twist.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully beside sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, or crispy pan-fried chicken. The creamy, savory grits balance out bold, textural sides perfectly for a satisfying meal any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Cream Cheese Grits with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe in small ramekins for a brunch spread, or layer with smoked salmon and capers to channel a bagel-inspired board. For a fun twist, spoon the grits onto toasted sourdough and top with avocado slices and a sprinkle of the seasoning blend.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover grits can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They tend to thicken as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit dense at first.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the grits, do so in airtight containers for up to one month. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different after thawing, but the flavor will remain delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the grits on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen them up and stir until creamy again. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra everything bagel seasoning and fresh chives before serving!

FAQs

Can I use instant grits for this recipe?

While instant grits cook faster, they often lack the texture and creaminess that old-fashioned or quick-cooking grits provide, which makes a difference in this recipe’s final consistency.

What exactly is everything bagel seasoning?

It’s a flavorful mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sometimes sea salt—all the classic toppings found on an everything bagel.

Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

You can try mascarpone for a milder creaminess or plain Greek yogurt for tang with lower fat, but cream cheese offers that distinctive rich texture essential to this recipe.

Is this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet?

This version relies on dairy products for its signature creaminess and flavor. However, you could experiment with plant-based cream cheese and nondairy butter alternatives, keeping in mind the taste and texture will change.

How spicy is the everything bagel seasoning?

It’s generally not spicy but has a bold, savory flavor with crunchy seeds and a hint of garlic and onion—it adds a wonderful kick without heat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Cream Cheese Grits with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe that makes it a go-to comfort food with a twist. Its blend of creamy textures and bold flavors invites you to savor every spoonful, whether for a simple breakfast or a cozy dinner side. Seriously, once you try it, this recipe will likely become a beloved staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine. So go ahead, treat yourself and those you love to this delightful dish—you won’t regret a bite!