Sausage And Cheese Grit Casserole
Creamy sausage and cheesy grits casserole combines rich flavors with cheesy goodness, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 3-quart baking dish.
- Bring water and salt to a boil.
- Slowly add quick grits to the boiling water.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese and butter until melted.
- Add eggs, milk, and browned sausage; pour mixture into the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake until golden brown.
- Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture. Stirring in some cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms can elevate the dish further, similar to flavors found in recipes like Sausage And Apple Breakfast Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light green salad or some crispy bacon. It can also be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast with a dollop of salsa or avocado on top. Explore other delicious American recipes for more breakfast inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage And Cheese Grit Casserole contains roughly 1129 calories, with 14g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1762mg per serving (77% 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 a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to bake as directed.
What kind of sausage works best in this recipe?
Any breakfast sausage will work well, but feel free to choose between spicy or mild based on your preference. You can also use vegetarian sausage as a substitute if you'd like to make it meat-free. Just ensure it's pre-cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, bake it at 350°F for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until heated through and set. Let it cool slightly before serving.
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).