About
You can go savory or sweet with Southern grits. Southern Grit Casserole goes savory so it can be the main show-stopper, and wow, it goes all in. The tender grits provide the perfect platform for succulent, spicy sausage and melty cheese. A touch of peppery thyme sweetness ties the Southern Grit Casserole all together. You can just taste that classic hospitality in each bite!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds smoked sausage, chopped
- 4 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon table salt
- 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking grits
- 2 (8-ounce) blocks sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
Directions
Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Step 2 -Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 3 -In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the sausage and cook, while stirring often, until the meat is browned and it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F, about 7-9 minutes.
Step 4 -Transfer the sausage to paper towels to drain.
Step 5 -In a large Dutch oven over high heat, add the water and the table salt and bring it to a boil.
Step 6 -Add the grits and whisk to ensure they are distributed throughout the water.
Step 7 -Bring the grit mixture to a boil.
Step 8 -Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium.
Step 9 -Simmer the grits, whisking occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 10 -Transfer the pot from the heat.
Step 11 -Add the cheese to the grits mixture and stir until completely melted.
Step 12 -Add the milk, the thyme, the garlic powder, the black pepper, and the eggs to the grits mixture and stir to combine.
Step 13 -Add the browned sausage to the grits mixture and stir to combine.
Step 14 -Bake until the casserole is golden and cooked through, about 50 minutes-1 hour.
Step 15 -Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes.
Step 16 -Serve.
