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Southern Grits Casserole Recipe
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Southern Grits Casserole Recipe

One dish that perfectly embodies this is Southern Grits Casserole Recipe. If you’ve never tried it, you’re missing out!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: Southern American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Stone-Ground Grits = 01 cup
  • Water = 04 cups
  • Salt = 01 teaspoon
  • Butter = 04 tablespoons
  • Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese = 02 cups
  • Milk = 01 cup
  • Eggs = 03 large beaten
  • Black Pepper = 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic Powder = 1/2 teaspoon Optional
  • Onion Powder = 1/2 teaspoon Optional
  • Cooked and Crumbled Bacon or Sausage = 1/2 cup Optional
  • Parmesan Cheese = 1/4 cup grated (for topping) (Optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pot (for cooking grits)
  • 9x13-Inch Baking Dish 
  • Whisk
  • Spoon or Spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Cook the Grits
  1. Boil 4 cups of water in a large pot.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the boiling water.
  3. Gradually stir in 1 cup of stone-ground grits.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Stir occasionally until the grits are thick and creamy.
Step 02: Add Butter and Cheese
  1. Stir in 4 tablespoons of butter until melted.
  2. Add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
  3. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and combined.
Step 03: Mix Wet Ingredients
  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 3 eggs.
  2. Add 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and optional seasonings.
  3. Pour the mixture into the cooked grits and stir well.
Step 04: Add Meat (Optional)
  1. Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage, if desired.
Step 05: Prepare the Casserole Dish
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or spray.
  3. Pour the grits mixture into the prepared dish.
Step 06: Bake the Casserole
  1. Top with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and set.
Step 07: Serve
  1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
  2. Serve as a side or main course and enjoy!
Servings and Preparation Times
  1. Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  2. Cook Time: 45 minutes
  3. Total Time: 1 hour
  4. Servings: 8-10 servings (depending on portion size)

Notes

  • Use Stone-Ground Grits: Stone-ground grits have a better texture and flavor than instant or quick grits. They make the casserole even more creamy and flavorful.
  • Don’t Overcook the Grits: When cooking the grits, be sure not to overcook them. They should be thick but not too dry.
  • Use Full-Fat Cheese: Full-fat cheese gives the casserole a richer flavor. Sharp cheddar works great, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses.
  • Add Protein: For an extra boost of flavor, try adding crumbled bacon or sausage to the casserole. This will make it a more filling dish.
  • Bake Until Golden: Make sure to bake the casserole until the top is golden brown. This will add a nice texture and flavor to the dish.