Cheddar Grits And Sausage Bake
A hearty baked dish combining creamy cheesy grits with savory sausage, perfect for breakfast or comfort food lovers seeking bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sausage in a skillet until no longer pink; drain well.
- Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, bring water to a boil.
- Slowly add quick cooking grits, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir until boiling again.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer about 5 minutes or until water is absorbed and mixture is thick, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheese, stirring until cheese melts.
- Remove pan from the heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in the beaten egg, milk, parsley flakes, and pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version. If you prefer a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the grits. Make sure to stir constantly when adding grits to avoid lumps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheddar Grits and Sausage Bake hot, garnished with additional cheese and parsley if desired. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For breakfast or brunch, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or pastries, complementing the dish's heartiness with lighter options.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, bake in the oven at 350°F until heated, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Grits And Sausage Bake contains roughly 296 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits and sausage mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then bake it right before serving. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best?
While this recipe suggests Cheddar or American cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it melts well for the best results.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Note that the texture may slightly change after freezing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).