Ham and Cheese Grits Casserole

Ham and Cheese Grits Breakfast Casserole is one of the easiest make ahead meals. Just like our SHRIMP CREOLE CASSEROLE, it is very simple to make but not simple in flavor.

Casseroles are not only easy and make life simple, they also make perfect food gifts. This one would be a great option to make ahead and freeze to give to someone who needs a little extra help. Often, when food gifting, we don't think about giving a breakfast option, this can become a very nice surprise for someone who needs it.

Check out our HOMEMADE BUTTERMILK BISCUITS recipe for an added delicious bonus to serve with this yummy breakfast surprise.

Grits can seem kind of flavorless and hard to make different. Adding them with ham, eggs, onions and cheddar cheese can really put these in a new light. Let's show you how to make it.

• 1 & ½ Cups broth -using broth with the water helps add flavor to the grits. Also, if you use lower sodium you get more flavor and less salt!
• 2 eggs or ½ cup liquid egg whites - for binding and having the eggs in the casserole is a subtle breakfast addition.
• 1 & ½ Cup water - for the grits!
• I cup shredded cheddar cheese - we use half for the casserole and half for the top!
• ¼ Cup milk -to add a touch of creaminess to the casserole.
• I cup uncooked Quick Grits -these cook up in 5-10 minutes and make life very easy!
• 2 tablespoons butter - grits and butter go together like peas and carrots!
• I cup cubed, cooked ham - this is a really good way to reuse that leftover ham!
• Salt & pepper to taste - add to personal preference. If you need a measurement, I would do ¼ teaspoon of each because of using broth.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic - just enough to give that savory flavor. Feel free to leave out or substitute your favorite savory spice.
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes - we like a little heat. This is also a negotiable ingredient and can be left out!
• 2 green onions, chopped - a pop of color and just a little flavor, they are less intense.

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Boil water and broth in large boiler. Stir in grits & reduce heat to low. Cover a cook 5 to 10 minutes, until thick.
3. In a separate bowl, lightly beat eggs and temper with warm grits. add all eggs, add ½ cup of cheese, milk & butter.
4. Mix well. Add salt, pepper, garlic and red pepper. Fold in onions and ham. Pour in a greased 9 x11 casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese. Bale 35 to 45 minutes.
5. Cool for at least 10 minutes, serve and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks Do I use traditional grits or quick cooking?

You can use traditional ones, just note that the cook time is about 10-15 minutes longer to get them done. The idea is to have them done before mixing the casserole. Quick grits will definitely make this much easier to assemble but everyone has a preference and all are correct!

Yes! Just make sure you do add some sort of protein that goes well with the grits. The possibilities are endless.

Yes! You can leave them out altogether or substitute with another green veggie. Whatever can cut the carbs and protein and get a little green in your diet!

Breakfast done in a jiffy and all in one pan. That is a real winner in my recipe book! For a fantastic addition to this all star breakfast, try serving it with these BACON AND CHEESE TURNOVERS. This is a great make ahead and freeze option too! Cook grits and assemble and wrap tightly and freeze. Thaw well and cook according to directions!

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