Bacon Grits Fritters are a delicious way to turn classic creamy grits into something completely different. Creamy grits and smoky bacon are transformed into crispy, golden fritters that make an irresistible appetizer, snack, or Southern-inspired side dish. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft, savory center is what makes these little bites so good.
Grits are traditionally served warm and creamy, but allowing them to firm up makes them perfect for shaping into fritters. Bacon adds savory flavor and a little richness, while frying gives the outside a beautifully crisp texture. They are especially appealing for entertaining because the mixture can be prepared ahead, shaped into individual portions, and cooked when you’re ready to serve.
These bacon grits fritters are also a smart recipe to keep in mind when you have leftover grits. Rather than reheating the same bowl of grits, turn them into something new and crispy. Serve the fritters as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, alongside eggs for breakfast, or as a creative accompaniment to a Southern-style dinner.
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Bacon Grits Fritters
- Total Time: 4:26
- Yield: 8 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) shredded extra-sharp white Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and finely crumbled bacon (about 8 slices)
- 2 green onions, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups Japanese breadcrumbs (panko)
- Vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare grits according to package directions, using 4 cups milk and 1 tsp. salt. Remove from heat, and let stand 5 minutes. Stir in cheese and next 3 ingredients, stirring until cheese is melted. Spoon mixture into a lightly-greased 8-inch square baking dish or pan, and chill 4 to 24 hours.
- Roll grits into 1 1/2-inch balls. Whisk together eggs and 1/4 cup water. Dip balls in egg wash, and roll in breadcrumbs.
- Pour oil to depth of 3 inches in a large, heavy skillet; heat over medium-high heat to 350°. Fry fritters, in batches, 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Keep fritters warm on a wire rack in a pan in a 225° oven up to 30 minutes. Serve warm.
Notes
- Make ahead: Prepare recipe as directed through Step 2. Cover and chill in a single layer up to 4 hours. Fry as directed. You may also prepare through Step 2 and freeze on a baking sheet for 30 minutes or until firm. Transfer to a zip-top plastic bag, and freeze. Cook frozen fritters as directed in Step 3, increasing cooking time to 5 to 6 minutes or until golden and centers are thoroughly heated.
- Prep Time: :25
- Chill Time: 4:00
- Cook Time: :04
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Southern USA