Grits and Sausage Bake

This is a real southern favorite, a great breakfast casserole, a meal or a side dish. I hope you enjoy it. Note; Batter can be made the day before; covered refrigerate. Let stand 30 minutes before baking.

• Ready In: 1 hr 40 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 16  ounces breakfast sausage, cooked, drained and crumbled
• 3  cups water
• 3⁄4 cup quick-cooking grits
• 2  cups  shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (8-ounces)
• 2⁄3 cup evaporated milk
• 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄8 teaspoon  hot pepper sauce (optional)
• 2  large eggs, lightly beaten

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, grease 8-inch-square baking dish.
2. Bring water to a boil in medium saucepan; slowly stir in grits, cover; reduce heat to low; cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes.
3. Add 1 1/2 cups cheese, evaporated milk, garlic powder, and hot sauce; stir until cheese is melted.
4. Add sausage and eggs; stir well; pour into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake 1 hour, top with remaining cheese; bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes or until cheese is melted ans gloden brown.
6. Let cool 10 minutes before serving, season with ground black pepper.