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
Scale
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.
