Sausage Grits
Sausage Grits combine savory cooked sausage with creamy cheesy grits, baked to perfection. A hearty, comforting dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain cooked sausage and spoon into a lightly greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Combine hot cooked grits, shredded Cheddar cheese, and butter, stirring until the cheese melts.
- Mix eggs with milk and stir into the grits mixture.
- Pour the grits mixture over the sausage in the baking dish.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
- Garnish with parsley and pimento strips, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using spicy sausage instead of mild. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute turkey sausage and use low-fat cheese. To make the grits extra creamy, stir in a bit of cream or half-and-half. Make sure to use freshly cooked grits for the best texture. This dish can also be customized with different cheeses or by adding sautéed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish as a comforting breakfast or brunch option. It pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal. For a complete Southern experience, consider serving with biscuits or alongside American recipes like Chicken and Waffles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in short increments until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Grits contains roughly 553 calories, with 20g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. 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 sausage and grits mixture in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to Cheddar cheese, you can use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a kick, or even a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).