North Carolina Sausage and Grits Casserole
Experience the comforting flavors of the South with this hearty North Carolina Sausage and Grits Casserole. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an easy dinner, this recipe combines creamy stone-ground grits infused with sharp cheddar cheese, savory breakfast sausage, and a rich egg mixture to create a layered dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Each bite delivers a balance of cheesy goodness, spiced sausage, and fluffy eggs, all baked to golden perfection. Topped off with optional paprika and fresh green onions for a burst of color and flavor, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated. With just 15 minutes of prep and minimal effort, this classic Southern dish is your go-to recipe for easy entertaining or cozy family meals.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, ground
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the salt, then gradually whisk in the grits to prevent clumping.
Reduce the heat to low and cook the grits, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and black pepper until fully combined.
In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked grits evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the cooked sausage on top, distributing evenly.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and grits layers. Use a spatula to gently press down if needed to ensure even distribution.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with paprika and chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
Slice into portions and serve hot. Enjoy your North Carolina Sausage and Grits Casserole!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3381 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 240.0 g | 308% | |
| Saturated Fat | 109.9 g | 550% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1178 mg | 393% | |
| Sodium | 6877 mg | 299% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 177.5 g | 65% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.3 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.7 g | ||
| Protein | 131.0 g | 262% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.7 mcg | 33% | |
| Calcium | 1717 mg | 132% | |
| Iron | 9.2 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 1690 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
