Simple Southern 6-Ingredient Grits Casserole

This Southern Grits Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food side dish, combining creamy grits, sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and eggs into a rich casserole with a golden, bubbly top. Made with just six simple ingredients, it’s an easy recipe for breakfast, brunch, holiday gatherings, or a comforting family dinner.

Grits have long been a Southern kitchen staple, and baking them into a cheesy casserole makes them even more satisfying. The creamy center and melted cheddar topping create a cozy dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Grits Casserole

• Made with just 6 simple ingredients
• Creamy, cheesy, and comforting
• Easy enough for busy mornings
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner
• Great alongside ham, sausage, bacon, or shrimp
• Reheats well for quick weekday meals

Ingredients

• 4 cups water, or half water and half milk
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits, not instant
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

How to Make Southern Grits Casserole

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the Grits

Bring the water and salt to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan.

Slowly whisk in the grits, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grits become thick, creamy, and smooth.

3. Add Butter and Cheese

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of butter until melted.

Add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted and incorporated into the creamy grits.

Let the mixture cool for about 3–5 minutes.

4. Add the Eggs

Slowly whisk the beaten eggs into the slightly cooled grits mixture until everything is well combined.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula.

Dot the top with the remaining tablespoon of butter and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.

6. Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the cheese on top is golden and bubbling around the edges.

Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

What to Serve With Grits Casserole

This cheesy grits casserole works beautifully as part of a Southern-style breakfast or dinner.

Serve it with:

• Crispy bacon
• Breakfast sausage
• Baked ham
• Roasted chicken
• Grilled pork chops
• Sautéed shrimp
• Green salad
• Steamed broccoli
• Fresh fruit
• Biscuits or toast

For brunch, a combination of grits casserole, scrambled eggs, sausage, and fresh fruit makes a satisfying spread.

Variations

Add Sausage or Bacon

Stir in about 1 cup of cooked crumbled sausage, diced ham, or bacon before baking for a heartier casserole.

Add Vegetables

Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be folded into the grits mixture for extra flavor and color.

Change the Cheese

For a milder casserole, substitute sharp cheddar with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.

Add More Flavor

A small pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can give the casserole an extra layer of flavor.

Make It Lighter

Use less butter and replace part of the cheese with a reduced-fat variety. You can also use more water and less milk.

Tips for the Best Grits Casserole

• Use quick-cooking grits, not instant grits.
• Stir the grits frequently while cooking to prevent lumps.
• Let the hot grits cool slightly before adding the eggs.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking—the casserole firms up as it cools.
• For creamier grits, replace some of the water with milk.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover grits casserole covered in the refrigerator.

When reheating, add a small splash of milk to help restore the creamy texture. Individual portions can be warmed in the microwave, while larger portions can be reheated gently in the oven.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Southern 6-Ingredient Grits Casserole is an easy way to turn humble pantry staples into a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish. Whether served for a Southern breakfast, weekend brunch, holiday gathering, or family dinner, its creamy texture and golden cheddar topping make it a comforting recipe that’s sure to earn a place in your regular rotation.