Grits Casserole – Messless Bites

The secret to perfectly smooth abrasive grains

A few tricks I’ve learned over the years are to first cook the grits over low heat. Next, slow cook the grits. A good idea is to go low and slow.

And thirdly, be near the stove. Grits cook best if you stir constantly for the first few minutes, then stir regularly for the rest of the cooking time.

recipe ingredients

1. sausage – It adds a nice smoky flavor and makes this dish even more hearty. You can substitute ham or bacon if you like.
2. vegetables – Garlic, onions, and peppers provide a wonderful flavor base with sweetness, texture, and crunch.
3. liquid – I prefer chicken broth to water because it enhances the flavor of the casserole. And of course, milk always makes grits creamy.
4. grits – I choose a high-quality stone-ground abrasive, but quick abrasives will also work.
5. dairy products – Eggs and butter give grits casserole rich flavor while holding it together. Cheddar and Parmesan provide bold flavor and creaminess. Some ideas include additional cheese options like mozzarella, smoked gouda, and provolone.
6. seasoning – A little Worcestershire adds a pleasant flavor. creole seasoning Optional, but adds a smoky touch.
7. garnish – Green onions and parsley add flavor. Other garnish ideas include chives and seasoned breadcrumbs.

How to make grits casserole

• cook the sausage – Add the ground sausage to a medium skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until no longer pink, breaking it up to prevent lumps.
• add vegetables – Add onions, garlic, and peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until onions are translucent. Let’s set it aside.
• add liquid – Add chicken broth and milk to a 3-quart saucepan. Bring to a boil.
• cook grits – As soon as it comes to a boil, gradually add the grits and whisk until they are all added to the pot. Stir constantly with a whisk to prevent lumps. You may have to remove the pan from the heat while removing any lumps. Reduce the heat and cook the grits, covered and stirring frequently, just before boiling, until the water is completely absorbed and the grits have thickened. Depending on what you do, this may take 10 minutes or more.
• add cheese – Remove sand from heat. Add the butter, Parmesan cheese, and half a cup of cheddar cheese and whisk until the cheese is melted.
• final touches – Mix cooked breakfast sausage and grits with eggs, Worcestershire sauce, optional Creole seasoning, salt and pepper, and a little green onion.
• bake – Transfer to a greased 3-quart or 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350°F/177°C for 20-30 minutes or until center is set. Let cool slightly before serving and sprinkle with green onions and parsley if desired. enjoy! !

Recipe variations

1. hard – A pinch of cayenne pepper, a splash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will increase the Scoville rating. 😉
2. vegetable exchange – Replace the red peppers with green or yellow peppers depending on your preference. Or add sautéed spinach for an extra boost of color and nutrition.
3. creamy grits – Replace half of the milk with cream cheese or heavy cream to increase the creaminess.
4. Holiday Brunch Add-in – Sauteed shrimp and mushrooms create the perfect flavor combination for a special brunch.
5. topping – Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan over the top of the casserole before cooking for a nice, crunchy topping. If you prefer, you can also top the casserole with crispy onions.

tips and tricks

1. If the grits are thicker than you like when you mix everything, add more milk or chicken broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
2. Cook the grits as low as possible, stirring constantly at the beginning, and increasing the cooking time to get a smooth texture.
3. Stone-ground grits take longer to cook than regular ones. So keep an eye on it while cooking and be prepared to extend the cooking time if necessary.

Preparation instructions

This dish is perfect for meeting friends as it can be prepared in advance. Store in the freezer for 4 weeks! Let the casserole cool completely and cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator the day before you want to eat it!

How to consume and store

This deliciousness is the best Right out of the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth.

Leftover cooked cheese grits casserole can be stored in the refrigerator. Store covered with plastic wrap 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

To reheat, let the casserole come to room temperature, then Bake in the oven at 177℃ until heated through (about 20 minutes).

What to serve with grits casserole

This casserole is a full meal! Any self-respecting Southern cook needs crunchy homemade food. butter biscuit or southern buttermilk biscuits. refreshing tropical fruit salad A great addition to your brunch table to balance out the richness of your casserole.

More great brunch recipes to try

1. grit cake
2. sweet potato pancakes
3. brioche french toast
4. cranberry orange scone
5. sausage breakfast pizza

by Imma

See how to make

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This blog post was originally published in October 2022 and updated with additional tips, new photos, and videos.