Southern Grits Casserole is a beloved Southern dish that combines creamy grits with savory sausage and melted cheddar cheese, all baked together to create a hearty and comforting meal. This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd at brunch or as a satisfying dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked grits
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup butter, cut into pieces, divided
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 12 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Grits:
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan.
- 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 the shredded Cheddar cheese and half of the butter pieces until melted.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground pork sausage until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat and add the cooked sausage to the grits mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the egg mixture into the grits and sausage mixture until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Dot the top with the remaining butter pieces and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until set and lightly browned on top, about 45 minutes.
Variations and Tips:
- Cheese Choices: While sharp Cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorites for different flavor profiles.
- Meat Options: For a different twist, consider using cooked bacon, ham, or breakfast sausage in place of the ground pork sausage.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight. Bake it the next morning for a convenient breakfast option.
- Spice It Up: Add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the grits mixture for a spicy kick.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or fresh fruit to balance the richness of the dish.
Southern Grits Casserole embodies the comforting flavors of the South, making it a must-try for any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal.
