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
