Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole
A hearty and savory Southern classic, this baked casserole features creamy cheese grits, savory breakfast sausage, and a rich, custardy texture. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing brunch or a comforting weeknight supper.
For 8 servings
8 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- a.Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes). Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Drain off excess grease and set the mixture aside.
- 3
In a large saucepan, bring the water and milk to a rolling boil
- a.While whisking constantly, slowly pour in the grits, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy.
- 4
Remove the grits from the heat
- a.Immediately stir in the cubed butter and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until both are completely melted and incorporated.
- 5
In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the eggs
- a.To temper the eggs, slowly whisk about 1 cup of the hot grits mixture into the eggs. This warms them gently to prevent scrambling. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining grits, stirring constantly to combine.
- 6
Fold the cooked sausage and onion mixture into the grits
- a.If using, stir in the cayenne pepper.
- 7
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer
- a.Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheese over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This is crucial for the casserole to set properly. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest grits, use whole milk and don't skip the butter.
- 2Shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the casserole greasy.
- 3Don't skip the resting time after baking. It's crucial for the casserole to set, making it much easier to slice and serve.
- 4To prevent lumpy grits, pour them into the boiling liquid in a slow, steady stream while whisking constantly.
- 5This casserole is great for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Version
Use a hot breakfast sausage and add 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños along with the onion for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian OptionVegetarian Option
Substitute the sausage with a plant-based ground sausage alternative. Ensure it is well-browned before adding to the grits.
Cheese VariationsCheese Variations
Swap the sharp cheddar for other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheddar and Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
Added VegetablesAdded Vegetables
Sauté 1 cup of chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the sausage and onion for extra flavor and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
The sausage, eggs, and cheese provide a significant amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and overall body function.
Rich in Calcium
With whole milk and two cups of cheese, this casserole is a good source of calcium, a mineral vital for strong bones and teeth.
Provides Energy
The grits are a source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy to fuel your day.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole contains approximately 520 calories, though this can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the fat content of the sausage.