Grits Breakfast Casserole

A Warm and Hearty Breakfast for Any Day

Grits breakfast casserole is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in the morning. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect comfort food to start your day.

Whether you’re feeding a big family, hosting a brunch, or just meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is a go-to option. It’s filling, easy to make, and can be customized to suit different tastes.

What makes this recipe special is its combination of simple, budget-friendly ingredients that come together to create something delicious. When baked into a casserole with eggs, cheese, and sausage or bacon, they become even more irresistible. Plus, you can add veggies or swap out ingredients to make it just the way you like.

It’s also a great dish for holiday mornings when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

If you’ve never tried a grits casserole before, this is your sign to give it a go. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious flavors—perfect for making breakfast extra special!

About Grits Breakfast Casserole

Grits breakfast casserole is a baked dish made with creamy grits, eggs, cheese, and a mix of savory ingredients like sausage or bacon. It’s similar to other breakfast casseroles, but what sets it apart is the rich, smooth texture of the grits, which creates a heartier and more comforting base than bread or potatoes.

Unlike a traditional egg casserole, which often uses bread cubes, or a hash brown casserole that relies on potatoes, this dish gives you a Southern twist with the deep, buttery flavor of grits. Plus, grits naturally absorb the flavors of whatever you cook them with, making every bite extra delicious!

Why You’ll Love It

1. Comfort Food at Its Best – Creamy, cheesy, and full of savory goodness, this casserole is the ultimate cozy breakfast.
2. Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead of time and reheat throughout the week for quick and easy breakfasts.
3. Feeds a Crowd – Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is perfect for serving a big group without much effort.
4. Totally Customizable – You can mix in your favorite ingredients like veggies, different cheeses, or even spicy sausage to make it your own.
5. Budget-Friendly & Simple – Made with affordable pantry staples, this recipe is easy on your wallet and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients!

Ingredients

For the Grits

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Casserole

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (or bacon), cooked and crumbled
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Notes

• Grits Choice – Quick-cooking grits make this recipe faster, but if you have stone-ground grits, just cook them longer. Avoid instant grits, as they can turn out too mushy.
• Cheese Options – Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a little pepper jack for some heat!
• Meat Variations – Sausage is classic, but crispy bacon or diced ham work just as well. You can even make it meat-free by using sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Milk vs. Heavy Cream – Heavy cream makes the casserole extra rich, but you can swap it for whole milk or even half-and-half for a lighter version.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Medium Saucepan – To cook the grits until they’re thick and creamy.
• Whisk – Helps mix the grits smoothly and prevents lumps.
• Large Mixing Bowl – For whisking the eggs, cream, and seasonings together.
• Skillet – To cook the sausage or bacon before adding it to the casserole.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish – This is the perfect size for baking this casserole evenly.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Great for stirring the grits and mixing everything.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Oven Mitts – Because no one likes burned fingers when pulling out a hot, cheesy casserole!

I love using a cast iron skillet to cook the sausage because it gives it a little extra crispiness. Also, a glass baking dish works best for even baking and makes it easier to see when the casserole is perfectly golden brown!

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Grits (10 Minutes)

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 2 cups of milk to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of grits and ½ teaspoon of salt, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy.
4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, then remove from heat and let them cool slightly.

Pro Tip: If the grits seem too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen them up.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage (7-10 Minutes)

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
2. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.

If using bacon, cook until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture (5 Minutes)

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper until well combined.
2. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (saving the remaining ½ cup for topping).

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole (5 Minutes)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Stir the cooked sausage into the warm grits, then pour in the egg mixture and mix everything well.
4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole (35-40 Minutes)

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
2. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tip: The casserole is done when the center is firm and a knife inserted comes out clean. If it still looks a little jiggly, bake it for a few more minutes!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Whisk, whisk, whisk! – Stirring the grits constantly while cooking prevents lumps and keeps them super smooth. No one likes chunky grits!
• Let it rest before serving. – The casserole will be piping hot when it comes out of the oven, but letting it sit for 5-10 minutes helps it set, making slicing easier.
• Pre-cook add-ins. – If you’re adding veggies like bell peppers or spinach, sauté them first. This prevents extra moisture from making the casserole watery.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese. – A good, cheesy crust on top adds amazing flavor and texture. If you love extra cheesiness, mix some into the grits, too!
• Make it ahead. – You can prepare everything the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just put it in the oven in the morning—easy breakfast win!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Meat Options

• Turkey sausage or chicken sausage – A leaner alternative to pork sausage.
• Ham – Diced ham adds a slightly sweeter, smoky flavor.
• Meat-free – Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

Cheese Swaps

• Pepper Jack – Adds a bit of spice!
• Gouda or Swiss – Brings a rich, nutty flavor.
• Mozzarella – Makes the casserole extra gooey.

Milk Alternatives

• Half-and-half – A lighter option that still keeps it creamy.
• Almond or oat milk – Works for a dairy-free version (but skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese).

Extra Add-ins

• Veggies – Try spinach, onions, bell peppers, or even jalapeños for a kick!
• Spices – Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
• Toppings – A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or green onions on top adds a great finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit – A side of sliced strawberries, blueberries, or oranges adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy casserole.
• With a Side of Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits and a little honey butter make this meal even more comforting.
• With Hot Sauce or Salsa – A drizzle of hot sauce or a spoonful of salsa gives the casserole a nice kick.
• With a Simple Green Salad – If you’re having this for brunch or lunch, a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness.
• As Breakfast for Dinner – Pair it with crispy bacon or sausage patties for a filling “brinner” (breakfast for dinner).

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I like to slice it into portions for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
• Freeze – Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the Microwave – Heat a slice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk before reheating to bring back the creaminess.
• Reheat in the Oven – Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to warm it up evenly.

Pro Tip: If you’re reheating from frozen, let the casserole thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it up!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it in the oven in the morning—no extra prep is needed!

Can I Use Stone-Ground Grits Instead of Quick Grits?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that stone-ground grits take longer to cook. Follow the package instructions, and make sure they’re thick and creamy before using them in the casserole.

How Do I Make This Casserole Spicy?

If you love a little heat, add chopped jalapeños and a dash of cayenne pepper, or use spicy sausage instead of regular breakfast sausage.

Can I Make This Without Dairy?

Yes! Use unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative, and use plant-based butter.

What’s the Best Way to Get a Crispy Top?

For a crispy, golden-brown top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Can I Use Leftover Grits?

Yes! If you have leftover cooked grits from another meal, warm them up and mix in a little milk before adding them to the casserole to bring back the creamy texture.

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I’d love to hear how this turns out for you! Did you add any fun twists or make it extra cheesy? Let me know in the comments—I can’t wait to see how you make this grits breakfast casserole your own!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!