Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grits casserole is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy grits and savory sausage, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy-to-make dish that can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready to serve. Whether for a special brunch or a weekday breakfast, it’s a comforting dish that will fill you up and keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked grits
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup butter, cut into pieces, divided
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 12 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Prepare the grits: Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan, then stir in the grits. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed (about 5 minutes). Mix in 2 cups of Cheddar cheese and ½ of the butter until melted and smooth.
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly (about 5-7 minutes). Drain the sausage and add it to the grits mixture.
- Scramble the eggs: Whisk the eggs and milk together in a bowl. Pour into the skillet and lightly scramble over medium-low heat. Once scrambled, mix the eggs into the grits and sausage mixture.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the grits mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dot the top with the remaining butter, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of Cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (prep: 15 minutes, cook: 50 minutes)
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add vegetables like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Different Cheeses: Use a combination of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to spice up the casserole.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it the next morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Can I use instant grits instead of regular grits?
Yes, you can use instant grits, but they may not have the same texture. Regular grits will provide a creamier result.
Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours until set and browned on top.
Conclusion
This Southern Grits Casserole is the perfect hearty dish to serve at your next breakfast or brunch. With its cheesy, creamy texture and savory sausage, it’s a comfort food classic that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and bake, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Southern Grits Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Grits Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy grits, savory sausage, and melted cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any occasion, this easy-to-make dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole that brings rich Southern flavors in one simple recipe.
Ingredients
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked grits
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup butter (cut into pieces, divided)
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 12 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Prepare the grits: Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan, then stir in grits. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed. Mix in 2 cups of Cheddar cheese and half of the butter until melted and smooth.
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet, cook ground sausage over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes until browned and crumbly. Drain and add to the grits mixture.
- Scramble the eggs: Whisk eggs and milk together in a bowl, pour into the skillet, and lightly scramble over medium-low heat. Once scrambled, mix the eggs into the grits and sausage mixture.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the grits mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dot with the remaining butter, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of Cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, until lightly browned on top.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add vegetables like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
