Description
This Southern Grits Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection. Made with stone-ground grits, eggs, butter, and cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups stone-ground or quick grits
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend)
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Grits
- Bring 4 cups of water (or broth) to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter, milk, and heavy cream.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- While the grits are still warm, mix in shredded cheese until melted.
- In a small bowl, beat the eggs. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of warm grits to temper the eggs.
- Stir the egg mixture back into the grits, mixing well.
- Add salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder and paprika.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish and pour in the grits mixture.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Step 4: Rest & Serve
- Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make it meatier by adding crumbled sausage or diced ham.
- Use different cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or gruyère for a unique flavor.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk, cheese, and butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 115mg