This Cheesy Grits Casserole is a rich, creamy, and comforting Southern-style dish that’s perfect for brunch, holiday meals, or even a hearty breakfast. Made with quick cooking grits, two types of cheese, eggs, and butter, this casserole is easy to prepare and great for serving a crowd. It’s a family recipe that’s been passed down through the years, making it a staple for festive occasions like Easter brunch, Christmas morning, or a Mother’s Day breakfast.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quick Cooking grits
• 4 cups water
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese (half of a 16-ounce brick), cut into 1-inch squares
• 8 ounces shredded sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into thin pats
• ½ cup milk (best at room temperature or warmed)
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature, and lightly beaten

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Cook the grits: In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add salt and whisk in the grits. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping. Remove from heat.
3. Mix in the ingredients: Stir in the cheeses, butter, and milk into the cooked grits until well combined.
4. Temper the eggs: Spoon a small amount of the hot grits mixture into the beaten eggs to temper them (this prevents the eggs from scrambling). Stir the mixture and then add the eggs into the grits, mixing thoroughly.
5. Bake the casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×11-inch baking dish and bake for 30-45 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving so it firms up.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

A Brief History of Grits in Southern Cooking

Grits are a cornerstone of Southern cuisine, with a history that traces back to the Native American tribes of the Southeastern United States. Made from ground corn, grits were originally a simple dish for early settlers and Indigenous people. Over the centuries, they’ve evolved from a basic, humble food to a beloved Southern classic that’s enjoyed in a variety of forms—from simple grits with butter to elaborate dishes like Cheesy Grits Casserole.

The dish brings together the essence of Southern comfort food with its rich, buttery base and the smooth, slightly grainy texture of grits. Combined with cheese, eggs, and milk, this casserole transforms basic grits into a luscious, indulgent meal that pairs wonderfully with everything from sausage and bacon to vegetables and greens.

The Essential Ingredients for a Classic Cheesy Grits Casserole

Cheesy Grits Casserole shines because of its simplicity. The ingredients may be few, but they come together to create a flavor-packed dish that’s creamy, savory, and satisfying. Quick-cooking grits serve as the base of the casserole, and while some may argue that stone-ground grits are the superior choice, quick-cooking grits make this dish faster and easier to prepare without sacrificing flavor.

Velveeta cheese and sharp cheddar cheese bring richness and depth of flavor, ensuring that the casserole has a gooey, melty texture. The Velveeta helps create a smooth consistency, while the sharp cheddar provides a sharper bite that elevates the dish. Adding butter to the grits as they cook ensures a velvety smooth texture, while milk adds richness to the mixture. Eggs help bind everything together, adding an additional layer of creaminess and giving the casserole structure.

Perfect for Any Occasion

What makes Cheesy Grits Casserole so appealing is its versatility. It’s a perfect fit for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends, preparing a meal for the holidays, or simply looking for a filling breakfast to start the day. The casserole is hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but it also pairs wonderfully as a side dish to any protein, whether it be a slice of ham, roasted chicken, or crispy bacon.

For holiday meals such as Easter brunch, Christmas morning, or Mother’s Day breakfast, this casserole provides a comforting and easy-to-make dish that can be prepped in advance. The casserole bakes while you’re preparing other dishes, giving you time to focus on other elements of your holiday spread without worrying about making a complicated dish.

The ease of preparing Cheesy Grits Casserole also makes it an ideal recipe for families. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, making it a great dish to prepare with kids. They’ll love the cheesy, gooey texture, and it’s a great way to introduce them to the joys of Southern cuisine.

How to Make the Most of Your Cheesy Grits Casserole

Although Cheesy Grits Casserole is perfect as it is, there are a few variations you can try to add extra flavor or adjust it to your personal preferences. Here are some ideas for customizing your casserole:

• Add-ins: You can stir in cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to add more flavor and texture to the casserole. For a little spice, you could also incorporate some finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the mix.
• Cheese Options: While Velveeta and sharp cheddar are the go-to cheeses for a classic Cheesy Grits Casserole, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. For example, Monterey Jack or Colby cheese would provide a creamy texture, while Parmesan can add a salty, nutty note to balance the richness.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives can be sprinkled on top of the casserole before baking for added flavor and a pop of color. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to enhance the overall taste.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can reduce the butter and cheese or use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk and opt for a plant-based cheese substitute. Tofu or vegan egg replacers can be used in place of the eggs to make this dish suitable for a plant-based diet.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Grits Casserole is a dish that can stand on its own or be served with a variety of sides. To balance out the richness of the casserole, pair it with something light and refreshing, such as a green salad or some fresh fruit. You could also serve it with a protein like crispy fried chicken, bacon, or sausage patties to round out the meal. For a traditional Southern-style experience, serve it with biscuits or cornbread on the side.

To add some zest and freshness, top your casserole with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or serve it with a dollop of tangy hot sauce or tomato relish. The contrast between the creamy, cheesy casserole and the acidity or heat from the toppings can create an even more dynamic flavor experience.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about Cheesy Grits Casserole is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or holiday meal planning. You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may take a bit longer to bake from cold.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and this casserole reheats beautifully. Simply warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. For best results, cut the casserole into individual portions before freezing, and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion: A Hearty, Comforting Classic

Cheesy Grits Casserole is a true Southern comfort food that combines simplicity with richness and flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday breakfast, an Easter brunch, or a cozy family dinner, this dish will surely satisfy your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. Its creamy, cheesy texture and versatile flavor profile make it a perfect addition to any meal, and its ease of preparation ensures that it will become a staple in your kitchen for years to come. If you’re looking to create a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than Cheesy Grits Casserole!