Sausage-Cheese Grits
Sausage-cheese grits offer a creamy, savory comfort with spicy sausage and sharp cheese, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to hearty eaters and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan and stir in the quick cooking grits.
- Return to a boil, cover, and cook slowly for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, milk, butter, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt until everything melts and combines.
- Gradually stir a small amount of the hot grits into the beaten egg to temper it.
- Add the egg mixture back into the remaining grits, stirring constantly.
- Spoon half of the grits into a greased 8-inch dish.
- Top with cooked and drained sausage, then spoon the remaining grits over the sausage.
- Cover and chill the dish for 8 hours or overnight.
- Bring the dish to room temperature, then bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider using smoked sausage instead of the hot bulk pork sausage. You can also substitute half of the sharp Cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a spicier twist. Make sure to stir the grits continuously while cooking to prevent lumps. If you're short on time, instant grits can be used, but follow the package instructions for preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sausage-Cheese Grits with a fresh salad, like Rhonda'S Salad, for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables. For a heartier breakfast, consider adding a fried egg on top. It's perfect for brunch gatherings or as a comforting dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the grits in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently until heated through. This dish can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage-Cheese Grits contains roughly 603 calories, with 19g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (55% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 671mg per serving (29% 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 the night before and chill it as instructed. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp Cheddar is recommended for its strong flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Mixing different cheeses can create a deliciously unique taste.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While hot bulk pork sausage is traditional, you can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Vegetarian sausage is also a great alternative for a meatless version.
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).