June 21, 2026 · 30 min

Spicy Chorizo and Kale Skillet with Cheesy Cheddar Grits

Breakfast30 min982 cal / serving

Wake up to a sizzling skillet of spicy chorizo, hearty kale and sweet grape tomatoes, all piled high over a bed of creamy cheddar grits. This dish is pure comfort food, with bold flavors and a satisfying texture that will keep you full all morning.

Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes using one pan and a pot. The smoky paprika and tangy tomatoes balance the richness of the chorizo and cheese, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a lazy weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.


Recipe details

Breakfast30 min982 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories982 kcalProtein46.9 gFat70.7 gCarbs37 gSugar13.8 gFiber5.7 gSodium1730 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: yesLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: not detectedMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Kale4 ounce KaleView ingredient guide
Grape Tomatoes10 ounce Grape TomatoesView ingredient guide
Fresh Pork Chorizo6 ounce Fresh Pork ChorizoView ingredient guide
Yellow Onion1 unit Yellow OnionView ingredient guide
Smoked Paprika1 teaspoon Smoked PaprikaView ingredient guide
Grits0.5 cup GritsView ingredient guide
Cheddar Cheese0.5 cup Cheddar CheeseView ingredient guide
Vegetable Oil2 teaspoon Vegetable OilView ingredient guide
Butter2 tablespoon ButterView ingredient guide
SaltSaltView ingredient guide
PepperPepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry all produce. Remove and discard ribs and stems from kale. Roughly chop leaves. Halve tomatoes lengthwise. Halve, peel and thinly slice onion.
  2. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chorizo, breaking it up into pieces and cook until cooked through and lightly crisped, 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside. Meanwhile, bring 2½ cups water to a boil in a medium pot.
  3. Add onion and a drizzle of oil to the same pan over medium-high heat. Cook until soft, 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add tomatoes and cook until just soft, 2-3 minutes. Add stock concentrate, ⅓ cup water, kale and ½ tsp smoked paprika (save the rest for garnish). Cook until kale is tender, 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Once water is boiling, whisk grits into pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until thick, 5-7 minutes. (Tip: Add a few splashes of water if grits become stiff.) Add cheddar and 2 TBSP butter and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Stir chorizo into pan with veggies. (Tip: Mixture should have a saucy consistency. Stir in up to ¼ cup water if it seems dry.)
  6. Divide grits between plates. Top with chorizo mixture. Sprinkle with a pinch of smoked paprika and serve.

Recipe Tips

For a thinner grits consistency, add a splash of water or milk while cooking.

If the chorizo-veggie mixture seems dry, stir in a little water to create a light sauce.

Use a non-stick pan for easier cleanup.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack or your favorite melty cheese.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your grits are labeled gluten-free if you have celiac disease.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The chorizo and kale mixture can be made ahead and reheated. Prepare the grits fresh for best texture.

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