If you’re craving a dish that brings bold Southern comfort straight to your dinner table, the Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious casserole combines creamy grits infused with the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. Loaded with cheddar cheese, rich cream cheese, and smoky ham, every bite feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. It’s an easy-to-make showstopper that will have your family and friends asking for seconds and the recipe alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor and texture that come together seamlessly. These basics are easy to source, yet each one adds something truly special to this unforgettable dish.
- 6 cups chicken broth: This forms the creamy base for the grits, giving them rich flavor instead of just water.
- 2 cups quick cook grits: Essential for the creamy, comforting texture that makes this casserole what it is.
- ½ cup butter: Adds a luxurious, velvety mouthfeel and depth to the dish.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese: Gives the casserole its irresistibly smooth richness.
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Lends a savory, slightly tangy punch that complements the other flavors.
- 2½ Tbsp hot sauce: For a spicy kick that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
- 1½ tsp onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic lift.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory character with a mellow garlic essence.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that balance and enhance the entire casserole.
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp cheddar is a star here, melting beautifully and adding bold flavor.
- 4 large eggs: These help bind everything together for a perfect, sliceable consistency.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to lighten the richness.
- 1½ lb cooked chopped ham: Smoky and savory, this ingredient gives the casserole its hearty, satisfying bite.
- 3 green onions (chopped): Added at the end for a fresh, mild onion crunch and color contrast.
How to Make Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Heat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This ensures your delicious grits won’t stick, making for an easy cleanup and perfect presentation.
Step 2: Cook the Grits
Bring the chicken broth to a rolling boil in a large saucepan. Gradually stir in the quick cook grits, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens beautifully. This step is key to achieving that creamy, smooth texture that makes this casserole a standout.
Step 3: Combine the Cheesy, Savory Goodness
Once the grits are thick and ready, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cream cheese, 2 cups of shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, and butter until everything is melted and well blended. Next, mix in the sour cream, then slowly incorporate the eggs. Finally, fold in the chopped ham. Each addition layers in flavor and richness, creating a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and smoky notes.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Cheese
Pour the cheesy grits and ham mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, ensuring a golden, bubbly crust forms during baking.
Step 5: Bake and Garnish
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the casserole is set and the cheese on top is golden and inviting. Once out of the oven, scatter the chopped green onions over the casserole for a fresh punch of color and flavor that perfectly complements the richness within.
How to Serve Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling chopped green onions at the end brightens the dish and adds a lovely fresh crunch. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few extra dashes of hot sauce for guests who want an extra little kick. For a bit of indulgence, crispy bacon bits or freshly chopped parsley make perfect finishing touches.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans dressed with lemon and garlic complement the creamy, cheesy casserole perfectly. If you want to stick to Southern roots, try collard greens or a tangy coleslaw on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions. It’s also fantastic layered with extra ham and cheese in a deep baking dish for a more indulgent version. Don’t hesitate to top it with chopped fresh herbs or sliced cherry tomatoes to add pops of color that make it irresistible at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole Recipe will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Freeze it before baking for best texture: simply assemble the casserole, cover it well with foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place portions in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through. For a quick fix, microwave individual servings on medium power in 1 to 2-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I use regular grits instead of quick cook grits?
Yes, though regular grits require a longer cooking time and may result in a slightly different texture. If using regular grits, cook them fully before assembling the casserole to ensure the best creamy consistency.
Is this casserole very spicy?
The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted by the amount of hot sauce you add. If you prefer less heat, reduce the hot sauce or substitute with a milder version; the flavor will still be deliciously rich and tangy.
Can I substitute the ham with another protein?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage, bacon, or even cooked shredded chicken make excellent alternatives, each bringing their own unique flavor to the casserole without sacrificing the Southern comfort vibe.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth but if you don’t have it on hand, a splash of soy sauce or a bit of balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute to impart a similar umami richness.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or plant-based sausage to keep it hearty and satisfying. Just be sure your chicken broth is vegetarian or substituted with vegetable broth.
Final Thoughts
This Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole Recipe is truly one of those unforgettable dishes that brings a little piece of Southern soul to your kitchen. Creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and packed with hearty ham, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests. I really encourage you to give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s earned such a beloved spot in so many homes. Trust me, once you make it, it will become a go-to comfort food classic!
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Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Mississippi Sin Grits Casserole is a rich and comforting Southern-inspired dish combining creamy grits with sharp cheddar cheese, savory ham, and a hint of spicy hot sauce. This baked casserole is perfect for brunch or a hearty dinner, showcasing layers of cheesy, creamy, and smoky flavors topped with vibrant green onions for freshness.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups quick cook grits
- ½ cup butter
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2½ Tbsp hot sauce
- 1½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese & Eggs
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
Other Ingredients
- 1½ lb cooked chopped ham
- 3 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350° F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside for later.
- Cook Grits: In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Gradually stir in the quick cook grits, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps. Remove from heat once the grits have a creamy consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: To the cooked grits, add the cream cheese, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, and butter. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are melted and well incorporated. Next, stir in the sour cream, and gently beat in the eggs until the mixture is smooth. Finally, fold in the cooked chopped ham evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the creamy grits mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top to create a cheesy crust during baking.
- Bake and Garnish: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of hot sauce or add diced jalapeños.
- You can substitute cooked bacon or sausage for the ham for a different flavor profile.
- Make sure to stir the grits occasionally during cooking to prevent burning or sticking to the pan.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered with foil to prevent drying out.
- Using quick cook grits drastically reduces cooking time, but regular grits can be used if you allow extra cooking time.
