If you’re looking to elevate your comfort food game, the Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner that you’ll want to make again and again. This luscious casserole combines creamy, cheesy grits with the irresistible tang of pimento cheese and the savory crunch of bacon, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a cozy, satisfying dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to your table and is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is straightforward yet essential, building layers of flavor and texture that make the Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe truly unforgettable. From the rich chicken stock that forms the creamy base to the sharp cheddar cheese that crowns the dish with melty goodness, each component plays its delicious part.
- 3 cups chicken stock: Adds depth and richness to the grits, making them incredibly flavorful.
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits: The star grain that’s creamy and smooth, ensuring the perfect casserole texture.
- 1 (12-oz) container pimento cheese: Creamy, tangy, and cheesy, this is the heart of the casserole’s irresistible taste.
- ¼ cup butter, cubed: Adds luscious richness and helps blend all the cheeses beautifully.
- ¼ cup milk: Keeps the mixture tender and helps with smoothness.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Bind everything together so the casserole sets up nicely.
- â…“ cup chopped cooked bacon: Introduces a smoky crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to balance the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Gives a golden, cheesy crust that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Boil
Start by preheating your oven to 350° F and lightly spraying a 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures a neat bake and easy cleanup. Then, bring the chicken stock to a boil in a large saucepan — this will infuse your grits with a rich, savory base from the very beginning.
Step 2: Cook the Grits
Slowly stir in your quick-cooking grits into the boiling stock. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the grits have thickened to a creamy consistency, stirring now and then to keep it smooth and silky.
Step 3: Add Pimento Cheese and Butter
Once the grits are cooked, remove the pan from the heat and mix in the pimento cheese and butter until melted and fully combined. This is where the casserole starts to come alive with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Incorporate Milk, Eggs, and Bacon
Stir in the milk to loosen the mixture slightly, then slowly blend in the beaten eggs to bind the casserole. Finish with the chopped cooked bacon, and season everything with salt and pepper. This combination gives a perfect balance of creaminess, richness, and smoky flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pour the grits mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes elevate this casserole beautifully. A scattering of chopped green onions or chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce adds an exciting twist.
Side Dishes
Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe pairs incredibly well with crispy breakfast sausages or a fresh, tangy side salad to balance the dish’s creaminess. For a heartier meal, serve alongside sautéed greens like spinach or garlicky kale to bring freshness and vibrancy to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch, consider spooning the casserole into individual ramekins or small baking dishes—it makes the presentation feel special and personal. You can also serve it stacked with a fried egg on top or as a base underneath roasted vegetables or pulled pork for a Southern-inspired feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors tend to meld and deepen, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
This casserole also freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly or transfer the cooled casserole into a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you want a quick comfort food fix, just thaw and reheat—it’s a lifesaver for busy days!
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and warm until heated through, about 1 to 2 minutes. Alternatively, warm the entire casserole in a 350° F oven covered with foil to keep it moist, for about 15-20 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating brings back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use stone-ground grits instead of quick-cooking grits?
Absolutely! Stone-ground grits offer a heartier texture and richer flavor, but you will need to cook them longer—typically about 20-25 minutes before combining with other ingredients to ensure they’re fully tender.
Is pimento cheese hard to find?
Not at all! Many grocery stores carry it in the deli or cheese section, especially in the South. You can also make your own by mixing shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, and a bit of seasoning.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy cooked mushrooms or smoked paprika for a vegetarian-friendly smoky flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and grits.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Sharp cheddar is classic for a reason — it melts beautifully and adds that vibrant tang and color you want. However, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for some heat or Gouda for a smoky twist.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can make the grits mixture up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature, pour into your baking dish, add cheese on top, and bake as instructed. This saves time on busy mornings or entertaining days.
Final Thoughts
There’s something endlessly comforting about the Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s easy to make, wildly flavorful, and perfect for so many occasions whether weekday breakfasts or weekend gatherings. I can’t recommend it enough — grab your ingredients and dive into this creamy, cheesy, bacon-studded delight. Your taste buds will truly thank you!
Print
Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole is a comforting Southern dish that combines creamy, cheesy grits with savory bacon and a golden cheddar topping. Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying breakfast bake, it brings together quick-cooking grits, pimento cheese, and flavorful ingredients baked to perfection in a casserole dish.
Ingredients
Base
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (12-oz) container pimento cheese
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Additional Ingredients
- â…“ cup chopped cooked bacon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cook the grits: In a large saucepan, bring the chicken stock to a boil. Gradually stir in the quick-cooking grits, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally to avoid lumps. Remove from heat once the grits are creamy and thickened.
- Combine cheese and eggs: Stir the pimento cheese and cubed butter into the hot grits until they melt and blend together smoothly. Next, stir in the milk. Slowly add the beaten eggs, stirring continuously to incorporate evenly without cooking the eggs prematurely. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Fold in the chopped cooked bacon.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the cheesy grits mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the grits layer.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions if desired before serving.
Notes
- Quick-cooking grits ensure the dish is prepared in under an hour, but regular grits can be used with extended cooking time.
- Bacon can be substituted with cooked sausage or omitted for a vegetarian version.
- For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
- Garnish with fresh green onions or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
