Grits and Sausage Casserole

Ingredients

• 3 C water
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• ¾ tsp salt, divided
• 2 lbs bulk pork sausage, cooked and drained
• 2 C shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 3 large eggs
• 1½ C whole milk
• 2 tbs butter, melted
• Pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil
2. Slowly whisk in the grits and ½ tsp salt
3. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally
4. In a large bowl, combine grits, sausage and 1½ C cheese
5. Beat the eggs and milk and stir into grits mixture
6. Add the butter, pepper and remaining salt
7. Transfer to a greased 13x9 " baking dish.
8. Bake, uncovered, at 350° until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 1 hour.
9. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake 15 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
10. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting