Cheesy Grits Casserole(Breakfast Casserole)
A creamy, cheesy breakfast casserole featuring quick grits, cheddar cheese, and seasoned butter, perfect for make-ahead mornings and hearty family breakfasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the quick grits in water until thickened.
- Add butter, grated cheddar cheese, and seasoning salt to the cooked grits and stir well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
- Gradually mix the eggs into the grits mixture, stirring continuously.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of water when cooking the grits. You can also experiment with different cheeses; Gruyère or Monterey Jack can add unique flavors. If you're in a hurry, instant grits can work, but the texture will differ. Make sure to stir continuously when adding the eggs to prevent them from scrambling.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy grits casserole is perfect for breakfast or brunch and pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a salad like Ruth'S Sweetheart Salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage. It's also great as a side dish for dinner, complementing southern-inspired main courses.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water or milk to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Grits Casserole(Breakfast Casserole) contains roughly 1152 calories, with 17g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 540mg per serving (23% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Can I freeze the cheesy grits casserole?
Freezing is possible! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual, ensuring it's heated through before serving.
What can I add to the grits for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding cooked bacon, sautéed bell peppers, or chopped green onions to the grits mixture before baking. For a spicy kick, consider mixing in jalapeños or hot sauce. This versatility allows you to create variations that suit your taste.
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).