Grits Casserole
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 12 oz. thick-cut bacon
chopped, about 10 strips
- 6 scallions
thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
- 1 jalapeño
seeded and chopped
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 1/2 c. uncooked quick-cooking grits
- 3 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 c. half and half
- 4 large eggs
beaten
- Hot sauce
for serving
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°. Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- 2
Cook the bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp and rendered, 14 to 16 minutes. Remove 1/4 cup of the bacon pieces and set aside on a paper towel lined plate.
- 3
Add the scallions and jalapeño to the skillet with the remaining bacon, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- 4
In a medium Dutch oven, bring 4 1/2 cups of water and the salt to a boil over medium-high heat. Gradually sprinkle in the grits, whisking constantly. Return to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer, whisking often, until the grits have thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the cheese until completely melted. Stir in the half and half, eggs and bacon mixture from the skillet, along with the drippings. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- 5
Bake the casserole until the top is lightly golden, 50 minutes to 1 hour. Garnish with the reserved bacon, more scallions, and serve with hot sauce.
Grits Casserole
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About this Recipe
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that truly feeds a crowd? This Grits Casserole delivers a rich, savory experience perfect for any gathering, making it an instant favorite for brunch or dinner.
This recipe works by combining the humble goodness of quick-cooking grits with an abundance of flavorful ingredients. The creamy base, enhanced with sharp cheddar cheese, half and half, and eggs, becomes an irresistible canvas for crispy bacon, vibrant scallions, and a touch of heat from fresh jalapeño, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
What you can expect from this Grits Casserole is a dish that's both hearty and incredibly comforting. Imagine tender, creamy grits baked to perfection, forming a luscious, cheesy custard that melts in your mouth. Each spoonful offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, from the salty crunch of bacon to the fresh zest of scallions and a subtle, warming kick from the jalapeño. It’s a truly satisfying dish that promises to leave you feeling wonderfully full and content.
While delicious as written, this casserole offers versatility. For those who prefer less spice, the jalapeño can be easily omitted or scaled back. You could also experiment with different cheese varieties, such as a smoked Gouda or Monterey Jack, to introduce new flavor notes. If you don't have half and half, a combination of milk and a touch of heavy cream could be used.
This Grits Casserole is ideal for a comforting weekend brunch, a hearty family dinner side, or as a star dish at a potluck. Serve it warm, garnished with extra thinly sliced scallions, and a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an added zing.