Grits-Sausage Casserole
A hearty and cheesy sausage casserole featuring creamy grits, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. The savory sausage combined with melted sharp cheese and seasoned with thyme and garlic salt creates a comforting dish that can be prepared ahead and baked to perfection. Ideal for family meals or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Stir in the uncooked grits.
- Reduce heat and cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the extra sharp cheese to the cooked grits, stirring until melted.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix with milk, thyme, and garlic salt.
- Gradually add some hot grits to the egg mixture, stirring constantly.
- Pour the egg mixture into the remaining grits, stirring well.
- Add the cooked and crumbled sausage to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 8 x 12-inch dish.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Remove from refrigerator 20 minutes before baking.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes until golden and set.
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 dish. If you're short on time, instant grits can be used, but they may alter the texture slightly. This casserole can be spiced up with jalapeños or served with a side of fresh salsa for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs well with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting dessert, consider serving slices of Blueberry Creme Pie or Raspberry Pie to round out the meal. Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese for presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm. Cover with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grits-Sausage Casserole contains roughly 287 calories, with 14g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), iron (124% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1165mg 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just remember to take it out 20 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. This will help it bake evenly.
Can I freeze the grits-sausage casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Note that the texture may slightly change after freezing.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a heartier breakfast, serve it alongside bacon or fresh fruit. For dessert, a slice of Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars would make a delightful finish.
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).