Country Grits And Sausage
Country Grits and Sausage is a hearty Southern dish featuring creamy cheesy grits combined with savory sausage, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings seeking comfort and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Stir in the quick cooking grits and return to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cook for 4 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Combine the cooked grits with 4 cups of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese and stir until cheese melts.
- In a small bowl, beat 4 eggs and mix with 1 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of dried whole thyme, and 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Add a small amount of hot grits mixture to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Stir the egg mixture into the remaining hot grits.
- Add 2 pounds of cooked, crumbled, and drained sausage and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 12 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have quick cooking grits, regular grits can be used, but they will require longer cooking time. You can substitute sharp Cheddar with a milder cheese or a blend for a different flavor profile. Incorporating sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance nutrition and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or sliced tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving alongside bacon or fruit for a balanced meal. For a comforting option, browse more American recipes like Elaine'S Pork Chops Deluxe to complete your table.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the baked dish to cool completely before refrigerating leftovers in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Grits And Sausage contains roughly 1013 calories, with 48g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (214% of the Daily Value), iron (134% of the Daily Value), and calcium (112% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1169mg per serving (51% 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 dish a day in advance. Assemble the mixture in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven. Adjust baking time as needed.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I substitute for pork sausage?
For a lighter option, consider using turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage. These alternatives will provide a similar flavor profile while reducing fat content. You can also use crumbled bacon or ground turkey seasoned with herbs to achieve a different but delicious 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).