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
Scale
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.
