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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes deliver warmth and satisfaction quite like a casserole. Savory Sausage & Cheddar Grits Casserole is a standout dish that beautifully marries the robust flavors of breakfast sausage with the creamy, rich texture of stone-ground grits. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together, whether for a weekend brunch or a cozy family breakfast. Its ease of preparation and mouthwatering flavor profile make it a favorite among both adults and children alike.

Sausage and Cheddar Grits Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort dish with Savory Sausage & Cheddar Grits Casserole! This delightful recipe combines the hearty flavors of breakfast sausage, creamy stone-ground grits, and tangy cheddar cheese, making it ideal for family breakfasts or cozy brunches. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this casserole will become a beloved staple at your table. Explore essential ingredients, tips for perfecting the dish, and serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Ingredients
  

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 pound breakfast sausage (Italian or pork)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for added heat)

½ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Grits: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to avoid lumps. Lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the grits are thick and creamy, approximately 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, stir in the unsalted butter and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and silky. Set aside to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break it into smaller pieces while cooking. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the sausage, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion has become translucent. Drain any excess grease from the skillet and remove from heat.

      Combine Eggs and Milk: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using), until well combined.

        Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage mixture with the cooked grits, mixing well. Slowly pour in the egg mixture, stirring until everything is uniformly blended. Gently fold in the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.

          Bake: Pour the grits and sausage mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is a beautiful golden brown.

            Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish generously with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. This dish is perfect for breakfast or a delightful brunch centerpiece!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hour | 6-8 servings