When it comes to Southern comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as a rich, cheesy grits casserole. This hearty meal is a blend of creamy grits, savory sausage, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table.
This classic grits casserole is both indulgent and flavorful, with layers of richness that are balanced by the crispness of the bacon and the kick of sharp Cheddar cheese. The combination of textures—creamy, cheesy grits paired with crispy sausage and bacon—makes every bite irresistible. Here’s how to make this beloved Southern dish that will have your guests asking for seconds.
Gathering the Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
To make this casserole, you’ll need a few key ingredients that will come together to create a deliciously comforting dish. The base starts with chicken broth and uncooked grits—the foundation of the casserole that provides its creamy texture. Kosher salt and black pepper season the grits, while hot pork breakfast sausage brings a spicy, savory element to the dish. The addition of cream cheese, butter, and Worcestershire sauce gives the casserole a smooth, flavorful richness.
Next, the cheese! Sharp Cheddar is shredded and mixed into the grits for a rich, tangy bite. A couple of large eggs and some whole milk help bind the casserole together, ensuring a smooth, silky texture once it’s baked. Finally, scallions, cooked bacon, and a touch of hot sauce for serving round out the flavor profile, providing freshness, smokiness, and a spicy kick.
Preparing the Grits: The Heart of the Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. The first step is to prepare the grits. In a large 13- x 9-inch baking dish, whisk together the chicken broth, grits, kosher salt, and black pepper. This combination is the base of the casserole, so be sure to mix thoroughly. Once everything is combined, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 25 to 30 minutes. The broth will be absorbed, and the grits will begin to thicken, becoming the soft and creamy foundation of your casserole.
While the grits are baking, it’s time to prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Cooking the Sausage and Preparing the Mix-Ins
While the grits cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the hot pork sausage to the pan and cook it, breaking it up into crumbles as it browns. Stir frequently to ensure the sausage is cooked evenly, which should take about 8 minutes. Once browned and crispy, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Set it aside for later.
Now that your grits are nearly done baking, it’s time to get the mix-ins ready. When the grits come out of the oven, they’ll be thickened and slightly set. Whisk in the cream cheese, butter, and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The cream cheese and butter will melt into the grits, adding a rich, velvety texture. Next, stir in 1 cup of the shredded Cheddar, which will melt into the hot grits and create a cheesy, decadent layer of flavor.
Assembling the Casserole: Layering Flavors
Once the cheese has melted and the grits are smooth, it’s time to add the remaining ingredients. Stir in the beaten eggs, whole milk, and scallions. The eggs and milk will help set the casserole as it bakes, while the scallions bring a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the dish. Add 2 cups of the cooked sausage and 1/2 cup of bacon, mixing everything together until well combined.
Now comes the fun part: layering the casserole! Spread the grits mixture evenly in the baking dish, and then top it with the remaining 1 cup of Cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the rest of the cooked sausage and bacon over the top, creating a crunchy, savory topping that will crisp up as the casserole bakes.
Baking to Perfection: The Final Step
Place the casserole back in the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The grits will set, and the casserole will firm up, ready to be sliced and served. Allow the casserole to stand for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything settle and ensures that the casserole slices neatly.
For the final touch, garnish with extra scallions for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve with a drizzle of hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of spice.
Why This Grits Casserole Is a Must-Try
What makes this grits casserole so irresistible? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy grits provide the perfect base, while the combination of spicy sausage, crispy bacon, and tangy Cheddar cheese creates a satisfying depth of flavor. The eggs and milk give the casserole a smooth, custard-like texture, making it soft and comforting with each bite.
Whether you’re serving it at a family brunch, a holiday gathering, or as a hearty breakfast, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different types of sausage or cheese, and it’s a great way to incorporate grits into a more substantial, flavorful dish.
If you’ve never made grits casserole before, now is the time to try it. With its combination of creamy grits, savory meats, and cheesy goodness, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your comfort food rotation.
