Vegan 'Cheesy' Grits Avocado Toast: A Southern Breakfast with a Nutritious Twist

If you love avocado toast (and who doesn’t?), you’ll want to take it to the next level with this southern-inspired twist. Being a northern girl living in the South, I had to see what all the fuss was about with grits.

Turns out, when you make them cheesy (vegan-style!) with nutritional yeast and layer them over creamy avocado, you get the perfect combo of comfort food and nutrient-dense fuel to power your morning.

This recipe is rich in plant-based protein, energizing complex carbs, and healthy fats.

The grits—fortified with nutritional yeast—provide protein and vitamin B12, while avocado adds fiber, phytonutrients, and monounsaturated fats to keep your brain sharp and energy steady. Whole-grain bread gives an extra boost of fiber to support digestion and keep you fuller longer.

"Cheesy" Grits Avocado Toast Recipe

Makes 4-6 servings

"Cheesy" Grits Avocado Toast Ingredients (serves 4–6)

• 2 cups water

• 1 ¼ cups unsweetened plant-based milk of choice

• 1 cup grits

• ¾ tsp salt

• ¼ cup nutritional yeast

• ¼ cup water

• ¼ cup chopped scallions

• 2 Tbsp chopped jalapeño (optional)

• 2 Tbsp vegan butter (such as Miyoko’s) — optional but deliciously rich

• Smoked paprika (a must!)

• Whole-grain bread slices (to serve)

• 2–3 ripe avocados

• Mixed greens (optional, for layering)

• Black pepper (to taste)

  
  

Directions to make "Cheesy" Grits Avocado Toast

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water, plant-based milk, and salt to a boil.

2. Slowly whisk in the grits to avoid clumping.

3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for ~30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy.

4. Stir in the nutritional yeast, ¼ cup water, scallions, and jalapeños (if using). Add vegan butter, if desired.

5. Prepare your toast: spread mashed avocado over whole-grain bread, add mixed greens if using, and top with ~½ cup warm cheesy grits.

6. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and black pepper. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Spotlight

Nutritional yeast → Adds a cheesy flavor plus plant-based protein and B12. Avocado → Packed with heart-healthy fats, potassium, and antioxidants.

Whole-grain bread → Provides fiber to stabilize blood sugar and support gut health. Greens → Extra phytonutrients for glowing skin and a strong immune system.

Comfort Can Be Nourishing

This “Cheesy” Vegan Grits Avocado Toast is proof that comfort food can also be nourishing and energizing. Whether you serve it for a cozy weekend breakfast, a weekday power meal, or even a quick dinner, it’s sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your body.

Bonus: leftovers of the cheesy grits can be saved for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

So, next time you’re craving avocado toast, give this southern twist a try—you might just find a new favorite!