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If you love comforting Southern flavors and crave something that’s both hearty and easy to prepare, you’re going to absolutely adore this Make-Ahead Sausage and Grits Casserole Recipe. It’s a deliciously cheesy, savory dish where creamy grits meet perfectly seasoned sausage, all baked into a golden casserole that’s ideal for busy mornings or cozy brunch gatherings. The best part? You can prepare it in advance, making mealtime a breeze without sacrificing that fresh-baked goodness everyone raves about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe has its important role, creating layers of flavor and texture that make this casserole irresistible. From the quick grits that provide the creamy base to the sharp cheddar adding melty richness, each element combines simply but perfectly for a crowd-pleaser.
- 1 cup quick grits: Choose quick grits for a creamy texture without the long cooking time.
- 4 cups water: The liquid foundation that cooks the grits to soft perfection.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the grits perfectly.
- 2 pounds ground pork sausage: Adds savory, juicy meatiness that’s the star protein in the dish.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated): Brings a tangy, melty creaminess that melds with the grits.
- 7 eggs: Acts as the binder, giving the casserole stability and a fluffy texture.
- 1 cup milk: Creates a rich, smooth custard for the eggs to blend into the grits.
- 2 tsp ground thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that elevates the overall flavor.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and a gentle savory punch throughout the dish.
How to Make Make-Ahead Sausage and Grits Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F to get it ready for the final bake. Then, warm a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground pork sausage. Use a fork or potato masher to break the meat into small, even pieces. Cook for about 10 minutes until the sausage is thoroughly cooked and just starting to develop a golden brown crust. Once browned, drain off any excess fat and place the sausage on paper towels to soak up any extra grease. This step ensures your casserole won’t be greasy but will still be packed with meaty flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Grits to Creamy Perfection
While the sausage cooks, bring four cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quick grits and salt, then immediately reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for seven minutes, stirring frequently to avoid any lumps. This slow, steady cooking softens the grits into a luxuriously creamy base. Once cooked, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and beautifully blended.
Step 3: Whisk Together Eggs and Seasonings
In a small bowl, beat together the seven eggs, one cup of milk, two teaspoons of ground thyme, and two teaspoons of garlic powder. This mixture will give the casserole a rich, custardy texture and infuse it with perfectly balanced seasoning that ties the sausage and cheesy grits together seamlessly.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Mix the cooked sausage into the cheesy grits, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. Transfer this hearty mixture into a 9×13 inch oven-proof baking dish, smoothing it out to an even layer. If you’re planning to make this ahead of time, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours until you’re ready to bake.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
When you’re ready, remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered at 350 degrees F for 60 minutes. The casserole should be golden on top and set in the middle, with that inviting bubbling cheese aroma filling your kitchen. Serve it immediately for the best texture and warmth.
How to Serve Make-Ahead Sausage and Grits Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the rustic charm and fresh flavors of your casserole, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving. You might also consider a few dashes of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream if you prefer a little kick or tang to cut through the richness. These finishing touches add color and elevate the presentation effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a fantastic main event, but pairing it with fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad provides a bright contrast to the hearty, creamy casserole. Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens can also refresh the palate and bring additional textures to the meal. Think of the casserole as the cozy heart, with sides that add fresh, lively companions.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, consider serving this casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. It’s perfect for portion control and makes an elegant presentation for brunch or holiday breakfasts. For a grab-and-go option, bake it in a disposable foil pan and cut into squares that guests can enjoy anywhere. However you serve it, this dish always feels both homey and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage and grits casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent it from drying out. The flavors actually meld even better after a day or two, making it easy and delicious to enjoy later.
Freezing
If you want to stash this casserole for a future meal, freezing works great. After baking and cooling, cut it into portions and wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. Cover loosely with foil to keep moisture in and prevent over-browning on top. Microwave reheating works fine for quick meals but may make the texture a bit softer, so the oven remains the best choice for that freshly baked appeal.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! While ground pork sausage is traditional and flavorful, you can substitute turkey sausage or even a spicy Italian sausage depending on your taste preferences. Just cook the sausage fully before adding it to maintain the best texture and flavor balance.
Can I use regular grits instead of quick grits?
Yes, but regular grits take longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly (usually about 20-25 minutes). The texture will be just as delicious, maybe even a bit heartier, if you have the extra time.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this Make-Ahead Sausage and Grits Casserole Recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients. Just double-check the seasoning blends and sausage to ensure no hidden gluten additives if you are serving someone with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare this casserole completely the day before and bake the next day?
Yes, that’s the beauty of this recipe! You can mix and assemble everything, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake fresh when ready for that golden, bubbling finish.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat in the oven covered loosely with foil to lock in moisture. Microwaving is faster but may dry out the dish slightly. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can also help maintain creaminess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that brings together cozy texture, bold flavors, and effortless make-ahead convenience, this Make-Ahead Sausage and Grits Casserole Recipe is your go-to. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at any time of day, perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging in comforting leftovers. Give it a try—you won’t regret having this Southern classic ready and waiting in your fridge for your next meal.
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Print
Make-Ahead Sausage and Grits Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Make-Ahead Sausage and Grits Casserole is a hearty and comforting breakfast dish combining creamy sharp cheddar grits with savory browned sausage baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Grits
- 1 cup quick grits (not instant)
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Sausage and Egg Mixture
- 2 pounds ground pork sausage
- 7 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tsp ground thyme
- 2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Sausage: Place the ground pork sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a fork or potato masher into small pieces as it cooks. Cook for about 10 minutes, until fully cooked and just starting to brown. Drain the fat and set the sausage aside on paper towels.
- Cook Grits: While sausage cooks, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the grits and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 7 minutes, stirring often to avoid lumps. Once cooked, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground thyme, and garlic powder until blended.
- Combine and Assemble: Mix the cooked sausage into the cheesy grits, then add the egg mixture and stir everything together thoroughly. Pour the combined mixture into a 9×13 inch ovenproof baking dish. At this stage, you can cover and refrigerate the casserole for up to 24 hours if making ahead.
- Bake: When ready, bake the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven for 60 minutes until set and lightly golden on top. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- If preparing ahead, refrigerate the assembled casserole for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor impact.
- Stir grits frequently while simmering to prevent lumps and sticking.
- Drain excess sausage fat to avoid greasy casserole.
- This dish serves well for brunch or a hearty breakfast for a crowd.
