Cheese And Sausage Grits(Brunch)
Creamy, cheesy sausage grits baked to perfection, offering bold flavors with a spicy kick. Ideal for brunch or hearty breakfast gatherings, appealing to comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage and drain excess fat.
- Add Tabasco sauce, minced garlic, and pepper to the sausage and cook briefly.
- Cook the instant grits in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until smooth.
- Combine the cooked sausage, prepared grits, grated cheese, melted butter, beaten eggs, chopped green chilies, and salt, stirring until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a well-buttered 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using stone-ground grits instead of instant. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage can be a quick substitute. Feel free to adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce to suit your spice preference. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile. To lighten the dish, try using low-fat cheese or a plant-based butter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese and sausage grits hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced brunch. For an extra treat, consider serving with slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream. It’s a hearty dish that's perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the grits in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Sausage Grits(Brunch) contains roughly 345 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1414mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
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 mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, simply pour it into the baking dish and bake as directed. This is a great option for brunches or potlucks!
What can I substitute for the sausage?
For a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based sausage or skip the meat entirely and add sautéed mushrooms for a savory flavor. Additionally, crumbled bacon or ham can be used for a different twist.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of Tabasco sauce or omit it altogether for a milder flavor. Alternatively, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick without overwhelming the dish.
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).