Delicious & Easy Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole: The Ultimate Southern Breakfast Bake
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting breakfast to start the day, especially when it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. This incredible Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole is a true triumph of Southern comfort food, hitting all the right notes for a satisfying family meal or an impressive spread for guests. Imagine creamy, savory grits baked with hearty breakfast sausage and rich cheddar cheese, all coming together in a golden-brown casserole that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that embodies warmth, tradition, and pure deliciousness, making it a perfect centerpiece for any morning gathering.
Why You Will Love This Comforting Grits Casserole
This Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole isn’t just another breakfast recipe; it’s a fantastic culinary experience that offers multiple benefits. From its incredible flavor profile to its sheer convenience, there are countless reasons why this dish will become a staple in your kitchen.
First and foremost, the taste is simply fantastic. It’s a harmonious blend of savory breakfast sausage, rich and creamy grits, and gooey, melted cheddar cheese, elevated by aromatic spices. Each bite delivers a comforting warmth that is hard to resist, making it a perfect dish for a chilly morning or a festive holiday brunch. It offers a hearty, satisfying start to any day, whether you’re fueling up for work or enjoying a leisurely weekend.
Beyond taste, this casserole comes together surprisingly quickly for such a substantial meal. The hands-on prep time is minimal, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it bakes. This efficiency makes it an ideal choice for busy households, transforming a complex-tasting dish into an accessible weekday option. Moreover, this recipe is designed to feed a small army, making it absolutely perfect when family or friends come to visit. No more scrambling to make individual plates; one large casserole dish can easily serve a crowd, ensuring everyone gets a generous portion of deliciousness.
One of its most appealing features is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and simply pop it into the oven the next morning. This convenience is a game-changer for stress-free entertaining or peaceful holiday mornings. Imagine waking up, sliding the casserole into the oven, and enjoying the aromas fill your home as you sip your coffee – truly a breakfast triumph that will have everyone returning and begging for more!
It truly has all the makings of a delicious breakfast casserole: the earthy texture of grits, the sharp tang of cheese, the robust flavor of sausage, and the subtle yet impactful notes from aromatics and spices. Serve it as a stand-alone masterpiece, or complement it with some fluffy scrambled eggs and crisp toast for an even more elaborate spread. For those looking to create a true breakfast bonanza, consider pairing it with other Southern-inspired delights such as Easy Homemade Butter Swim Biscuits and perhaps some sweet Panettone French Toast. To truly indulge, finish off the meal with decadent maple bacon cinnamon rolls!
If you’re feeling a bit more creative, instead of serving this recipe as a traditional casserole, you could also explore our Fried Grit Cakes Recipe and combine elements to create a unique and delightful grit-based dish!
Essential Ingredients for Your Grits Casserole
One of the best aspects of this Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole is that it relies on readily available, simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. There’s no need for exotic spices or hard-to-find items, making this recipe a practical choice for any home cook. The full list with precise amounts can be found in the recipe card below, but here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- Breakfast Sausage: The cornerstone of flavor, providing a savory, meaty base. You can choose mild or hot, depending on your preference.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color, balancing the richness of the sausage and cheese.
- Grits: The star of the show! Stone-ground grits are often preferred for their hearty texture and rich flavor, but quick-cooking grits can be used for a faster preparation time (see FAQ for more details).
- Cheddar Cheese: The essential cheesy component. Sharp cheddar offers a robust flavor, while a milder variety will provide a creamier, more subtle taste. We use a generous amount, divided for mixing into the grits and topping the casserole.
- Milk and Chicken Broth: These liquids form the base for cooking the grits, imparting a creamy texture and savory depth that water alone cannot achieve. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended for better control over the saltiness.
- Half-and-Half: Further enhances the creaminess of the grits, giving them an incredibly smooth and luxurious consistency.
- Eggs: Act as a binder for the casserole, helping it set beautifully and adding richness.
- Butter: Contributes to the overall richness and smooth texture of the grits mixture.
- Green Onions: Provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a touch of color, both mixed in and as an optional garnish.
- Seasonings: Kosher salt, dried thyme, and garlic powder are carefully selected to enhance the natural flavors of the other ingredients without overpowering them.
- Dijon Mustard: A secret ingredient that adds a subtle tang and complexity, cutting through the richness and brightening the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish, adding a fresh, herbaceous note and visual appeal.
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a truly delicious and satisfying Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole.
How To Make Sausage And Cheese Grits Casserole
Creating this delicious breakfast casserole is a straightforward process that yields incredibly flavorful results. Follow these simple steps to bring this Southern comfort dish to life:
First, begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready for baking as soon as your casserole is assembled.
-
In a large skillet, combine the breakfast sausage and diced red bell pepper over medium-high heat. Break the sausage into larger pieces initially and allow it to brown on one side to develop a beautiful color and crust. Then, use your spatula to break it up into smaller crumbles and continue cooking until it’s fully done, which should take about 7-8 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off. Remove the cooked sausage and pepper mixture from the heat and set it aside.
-
While the sausage is cooking, turn your attention to the grits. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Place this over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This liquid base is crucial for developing the creamy texture and flavor of your grits.
-
Once the liquid base is boiling, slowly add the grits to the saucepan, whisking continuously as you pour. This step is crucial to prevent clumping and ensure you achieve deliciously creamy grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook according to the package directions, stirring frequently, until all the liquid is absorbed and the grits are tender and smooth. Patience and consistent whisking will guarantee a perfect texture.
-
Once the grits are cooked to perfection, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the reserved cooked sausage and red bell peppers, along with the butter, Dijon mustard, half-and-half, beaten eggs, and one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Finish by folding in the diced green onions. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the creamy grits.
-
Lightly spray a two-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer the sausage cheese grits mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a beautiful golden crust when baked. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and set.
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole dish from the oven. Allow it to rest and set for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the casserole firm up, making it easier to serve clean portions. For an optional fresh touch and added visual appeal, garnish your delicious sausage and cheese grits casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, diced chives, or additional green onions.
Expert Tips for the Best Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole
To ensure your Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Achieving a Golden Brown Top: If, after the recommended baking time, your casserole top isn’t as golden and crispy as you’d like, a quick stint under the broiler can work wonders. Place the dish under a preheated broiler for just 1-3 minutes. However, stay vigilant! The broiler can turn perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds, so keep a close eye on it until it reaches your desired level of browning.
- Whisk for Creamy, Lump-Free Grits: When you’re adding the grits to the boiling liquid, remember to whisk continuously. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a vital step to prevent lumps from forming. Consistent whisking ensures the grits disperse evenly and absorb the liquid properly, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture that is the hallmark of truly delicious grits.
- Fresh Herbs for a Burst of Flavor: Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh garnish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving is not only aesthetically pleasing, making the dish look more vibrant and appealing, but it also adds a wonderful burst of fresh flavor. Chopped fresh parsley offers a clean, herbaceous note, while chives or green onions provide a mild, delicate oniony kick. These small additions can truly make the dish sing and elevate the overall dining experience.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Casserole
While the classic Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences:
- No-Bake & Immediate Enjoyment: In a rush or prefer a softer texture? You can totally skip the baking step! Once the grits mixture is thoroughly combined with all the ingredients, simply serve it straight from the saucepan. It’s freakin’ delish this way too, offering a creamier, more immediate comfort food experience without waiting for it to set in the oven.
- Explore Different Cheeses: Get adventurous with your cheese choices! While cheddar is traditional, mixing in some mozzarella can add a delightful stretchiness, perfect for cheese pulls. For a deeper, nuttier flavor, try smoked gouda or a sharp Gruyere. A blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Colby can also create a milder, more approachable flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique personality, completely changing the vibe of your casserole.
- Incorporate More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add more color by tossing in some extra vegetables. Spinach wilts beautifully into the hot grits, adding iron and a subtle earthy flavor. Diced tomatoes can provide a welcome tang and moisture, while sautéed mushrooms or even finely chopped kale can introduce new textures and flavors. It’s a simple way to make the casserole a bit more healthful and complex.
- Turn Up the Heat: If you’re a fan of a spicy kick, it’s easy to add some heat. A dash of cayenne pepper stirred into the grits mixture will provide a subtle warmth, while a spoonful of chopped fresh or pickled jalapeños can really wake up your taste buds. For a smoky heat, consider a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce after baking. Adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Absolutely! This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for busy mornings or when you’re hosting. Simply prepare everything up until the baking step – cook the sausage, make the grits, and mix all ingredients together. Then, transfer the mixture to your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to serve the next day, preheat your oven and bake it according to the instructions. It might require an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven if it’s going in cold from the fridge, so keep an eye on it until it’s bubbly and golden. This method ensures you can enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast without any morning fuss.
Yes, you can certainly use instant grits if that’s what you have available or prefer for a quicker cooking time. While traditional stone-ground grits are often recommended for their superior texture and deeper corn flavor, instant grits will still work well in this casserole. It’s important to note that the amount of liquid needed typically remains the same between instant and non-instant grits; the main difference lies in the cooking time. Instant grits cook much faster, so if you opt for them, be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly, following the package directions closely. Regardless of the type you choose, the key to achieving great grits—creamy and lump-free—is consistent whisking and careful attention during the cooking process.
Indeed, this casserole freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or saving leftovers for future enjoyment! If you have any remaining portions or want to prepare a batch specifically for freezing, first allow the baked casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, you can reheat it in the oven (covered with foil initially to prevent drying, then uncovered to crisp up) or in the microwave. This method ensures your casserole tastes just as delicious as the day it was freshly made.
Other Delicious Breakfast Casserole Recipes to Try
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and comfort of breakfast casseroles, you’re in luck! There are many other delightful recipes that offer similar ease and satisfaction. Here are a few more breakfast casserole ideas that are perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a hearty meal:
Sausage Breakfast Cake
Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Ham and Cheese Strata
Are you on Pinterest? Click the button below to add this recipe to one of your boards!
Sausage And Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
- 1 lb Breakfast sausage
- 1/2 cup Red bell pepper diced
- 1 cup Grits
- 2 cup Cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- 1 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cup Chicken broth low sodium
- 2 Eggs beaten
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1/2 cup Green onions diced
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Parsley fresh, chopped – optional
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the breakfast sausage and diced red bell pepper until the sausage is well-browned and crumbled, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.1 lb Breakfast sausage, 1/2 cup Red bell pepper
-
In a large saucepan, bring milk, chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, and thyme to a boil over medium heat.1 cup Milk, 1 1/2 cup Chicken broth, 1/2 tsp Kosher salt, 1/2 tsp Garlic powder, 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
-
Gradually whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring frequently, until the grits have absorbed the liquid and are creamy, following package instructions for cooking time.1 cup Grits
-
Remove the grits from the heat and stir in the cooked sausage and red bell peppers, along with the butter, dijon mustard, half-and-half, eggs, one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions. Mix until well combined.2 cup Cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup Half-and-half, 2 Eggs, 1/4 cup Butter, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup Green onions
-
Spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray. Transfer the grits mixture to the dish, and spread evenly. Top with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.2 cup Cheddar cheese
-
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
-
Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley, diced chives, or green onions.1 tbsp Parsley
Notes
Cool the Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole to room temperature, then cover it tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave after thawing, if frozen.
Nutrition
Delicious & Easy Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole: The Ultimate Southern Breakfast Bake
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting breakfast to start the day, especially when it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. This incredible Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole is a true triumph of Southern comfort food, hitting all the right notes for a satisfying family meal or an impressive spread for guests. Imagine creamy, savory grits baked with hearty breakfast sausage and rich cheddar cheese, all coming together in a golden-brown casserole that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that embodies warmth, tradition, and pure deliciousness, making it a perfect centerpiece for any morning gathering.
Why You Will Love This Comforting Grits Casserole
This Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole isn’t just another breakfast recipe; it’s a fantastic culinary experience that offers multiple benefits. From its incredible flavor profile to its sheer convenience, there are countless reasons why this dish will become a staple in your kitchen.
First and foremost, the taste is simply fantastic. It’s a harmonious blend of savory breakfast sausage, rich and creamy grits, and gooey, melted cheddar cheese, elevated by aromatic spices. Each bite delivers a comforting warmth that is hard to resist, making it a perfect dish for a chilly morning or a festive holiday brunch. It offers a hearty, satisfying start to any day, whether you’re fueling up for work or enjoying a leisurely weekend.
Beyond taste, this casserole comes together surprisingly quickly for such a substantial meal. The hands-on prep time is minimal, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it bakes. This efficiency makes it an ideal choice for busy households, transforming a complex-tasting dish into an accessible weekday option. Moreover, this recipe is designed to feed a small army, making it absolutely perfect when family or friends come to visit. No more scrambling to make individual plates; one large casserole dish can easily serve a crowd, ensuring everyone gets a generous portion of deliciousness.
One of its most appealing features is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and simply pop it into the oven the next morning. This convenience is a game-changer for stress-free entertaining or peaceful holiday mornings. Imagine waking up, sliding the casserole into the oven, and enjoying the aromas fill your home as you sip your coffee – truly a breakfast triumph that will have everyone returning and begging for more!
It truly has all the makings of a delicious breakfast casserole: the earthy texture of grits, the sharp tang of cheese, the robust flavor of sausage, and the subtle yet impactful notes from aromatics and spices. Serve it as a stand-alone masterpiece, or complement it with some fluffy scrambled eggs and crisp toast for an even more elaborate spread. For those looking to create a true breakfast bonanza, consider pairing it with other Southern-inspired delights such as Easy Homemade Butter Swim Biscuits and perhaps some sweet Panettone French Toast. To truly indulge, finish off the meal with decadent maple bacon cinnamon rolls!
If you’re feeling a bit more creative, instead of serving this recipe as a traditional casserole, you could also explore our Fried Grit Cakes Recipe and combine elements to create a unique and delightful grit-based dish!
Essential Ingredients for Your Grits Casserole
One of the best aspects of this Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole is that it relies on readily available, simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. There’s no need for exotic spices or hard-to-find items, making this recipe a practical choice for any home cook. The full list with precise amounts can be found in the recipe card below, but here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- Breakfast Sausage: The cornerstone of flavor, providing a savory, meaty base. You can choose mild or hot, depending on your preference.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color, balancing the richness of the sausage and cheese.
- Grits: The star of the show! Stone-ground grits are often preferred for their hearty texture and rich flavor, but quick-cooking grits can be used for a faster preparation time (see FAQ for more details).
- Cheddar Cheese: The essential cheesy component. Sharp cheddar offers a robust flavor, while a milder variety will provide a creamier, more subtle taste. We use a generous amount, divided for mixing into the grits and topping the casserole.
- Milk and Chicken Broth: These liquids form the base for cooking the grits, imparting a creamy texture and savory depth that water alone cannot achieve. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended for better control over the saltiness.
- Half-and-Half: Further enhances the creaminess of the grits, giving them an incredibly smooth and luxurious consistency.
- Eggs: Act as a binder for the casserole, helping it set beautifully and adding richness.
- Butter: Contributes to the overall richness and smooth texture of the grits mixture.
- Green Onions: Provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a touch of color, both mixed in and as an optional garnish.
- Seasonings: Kosher salt, dried thyme, and garlic powder are carefully selected to enhance the natural flavors of the other ingredients without overpowering them.
- Dijon Mustard: A secret ingredient that adds a subtle tang and complexity, cutting through the richness and brightening the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish, adding a fresh, herbaceous note and visual appeal.
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a truly delicious and satisfying Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole.
How To Make Sausage And Cheese Grits Casserole
Creating this delicious breakfast casserole is a straightforward process that yields incredibly flavorful results. Follow these simple steps to bring this Southern comfort dish to life:
First, begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready for baking as soon as your casserole is assembled.
-
In a large skillet, combine the breakfast sausage and diced red bell pepper over medium-high heat. Break the sausage into larger pieces initially and allow it to brown on one side to develop a beautiful color and crust. Then, use your spatula to break it up into smaller crumbles and continue cooking until it’s fully done, which should take about 7-8 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off. Remove the cooked sausage and pepper mixture from the heat and set it aside.
-
While the sausage is cooking, turn your attention to the grits. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Place this over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This liquid base is crucial for developing the creamy texture and flavor of your grits.
-
Once the liquid base is boiling, slowly add the grits to the saucepan, whisking continuously as you pour. This step is crucial to prevent clumping and ensure you achieve deliciously creamy grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook according to the package directions, stirring frequently, until all the liquid is absorbed and the grits are tender and smooth. Patience and consistent whisking will guarantee a perfect texture.
-
Once the grits are cooked to perfection, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the reserved cooked sausage and red bell peppers, along with the butter, Dijon mustard, half-and-half, beaten eggs, and one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Finish by folding in the diced green onions. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the creamy grits.
-
Lightly spray a two-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer the sausage cheese grits mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a beautiful golden crust when baked. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and set.
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole dish from the oven. Allow it to rest and set for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the casserole firm up, making it easier to serve clean portions. For an optional fresh touch and added visual appeal, garnish your delicious sausage and cheese grits casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, diced chives, or additional green onions.
Expert Tips for the Best Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole
To ensure your Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Achieving a Golden Brown Top: If, after the recommended baking time, your casserole top isn’t as golden and crispy as you’d like, a quick stint under the broiler can work wonders. Place the dish under a preheated broiler for just 1-3 minutes. However, stay vigilant! The broiler can turn perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds, so keep a close eye on it until it reaches your desired level of browning.
- Whisk for Creamy, Lump-Free Grits: When you’re adding the grits to the boiling liquid, remember to whisk continuously. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a vital step to prevent lumps from forming. Consistent whisking ensures the grits disperse evenly and absorb the liquid properly, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture that is the hallmark of truly delicious grits.
- Fresh Herbs for a Burst of Flavor: Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh garnish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving is not only aesthetically pleasing, making the dish look more vibrant and appealing, but it also adds a wonderful burst of fresh flavor. Chopped fresh parsley offers a clean, herbaceous note, while chives or green onions provide a mild, delicate oniony kick. These small additions can truly make the dish sing and elevate the overall dining experience.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Casserole
While the classic Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences:
- No-Bake & Immediate Enjoyment: In a rush or prefer a softer texture? You can totally skip the baking step! Once the grits mixture is thoroughly combined with all the ingredients, simply serve it straight from the saucepan. It’s freakin’ delish this way too, offering a creamier, more immediate comfort food experience without waiting for it to set in the oven.
- Explore Different Cheeses: Get adventurous with your cheese choices! While cheddar is traditional, mixing in some mozzarella can add a delightful stretchiness, perfect for cheese pulls. For a deeper, nuttier flavor, try smoked gouda or a sharp Gruyere. A blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Colby can also create a milder, more approachable flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique personality, completely changing the vibe of your casserole.
- Incorporate More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add more color by tossing in some extra vegetables. Spinach wilts beautifully into the hot grits, adding iron and a subtle earthy flavor. Diced tomatoes can provide a welcome tang and moisture, while sautéed mushrooms or even finely chopped kale can introduce new textures and flavors. It’s a simple way to make the casserole a bit more healthful and complex.
- Turn Up the Heat: If you’re a fan of a spicy kick, it’s easy to add some heat. A dash of cayenne pepper stirred into the grits mixture will provide a subtle warmth, while a spoonful of chopped fresh or pickled jalapeños can really wake up your taste buds. For a smoky heat, consider a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce after baking. Adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Absolutely! This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for busy mornings or when you’re hosting. Simply prepare everything up until the baking step – cook the sausage, make the grits, and mix all ingredients together. Then, transfer the mixture to your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to serve the next day, preheat your oven and bake it according to the instructions. It might require an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven if it’s going in cold from the fridge, so keep an eye on it until it’s bubbly and golden. This method ensures you can enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast without any morning fuss.
Yes, you can certainly use instant grits if that’s what you have available or prefer for a quicker cooking time. While traditional stone-ground grits are often recommended for their superior texture and deeper corn flavor, instant grits will still work well in this casserole. It’s important to note that the amount of liquid needed typically remains the same between instant and non-instant grits; the main difference lies in the cooking time. Instant grits cook much faster, so if you opt for them, be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly, following the package directions closely. Regardless of the type you choose, the key to achieving great grits—creamy and lump-free—is consistent whisking and careful attention during the cooking process.
Indeed, this casserole freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or saving leftovers for future enjoyment! If you have any remaining portions or want to prepare a batch specifically for freezing, first allow the baked casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, you can reheat it in the oven (covered with foil initially to prevent drying, then uncovered to crisp up) or in the microwave. This method ensures your casserole tastes just as delicious as the day it was freshly made.
Other Delicious Breakfast Casserole Recipes to Try
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and comfort of breakfast casseroles, you’re in luck! There are many other delightful recipes that offer similar ease and satisfaction. Here are a few more breakfast casserole ideas that are perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a hearty meal:
Sausage Breakfast Cake
Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Ham and Cheese Strata
Are you on Pinterest? Click the button below to add this recipe to one of your boards!
Sausage And Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
- 1 lb Breakfast sausage
- 1/2 cup Red bell pepper diced
- 1 cup Grits
- 2 cup Cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- 1 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cup Chicken broth low sodium
- 2 Eggs beaten
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1/2 cup Green onions diced
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Parsley fresh, chopped – optional
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the breakfast sausage and diced red bell pepper until the sausage is well-browned and crumbled, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.1 lb Breakfast sausage, 1/2 cup Red bell pepper
-
In a large saucepan, bring milk, chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, and thyme to a boil over medium heat.1 cup Milk, 1 1/2 cup Chicken broth, 1/2 tsp Kosher salt, 1/2 tsp Garlic powder, 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
-
Gradually whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring frequently, until the grits have absorbed the liquid and are creamy, following package instructions for cooking time.1 cup Grits
-
Remove the grits from the heat and stir in the cooked sausage and red bell peppers, along with the butter, dijon mustard, half-and-half, eggs, one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions. Mix until well combined.2 cup Cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup Half-and-half, 2 Eggs, 1/4 cup Butter, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup Green onions
-
Spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray. Transfer the grits mixture to the dish, and spread evenly. Top with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.2 cup Cheddar cheese
-
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
-
Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley, diced chives, or green onions.1 tbsp Parsley
Notes
Cool the Sausage and Cheese Grits Casserole to room temperature, then cover it tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave after thawing, if frozen.