Heat oven to 350°F. Spray shallow 3-quart casserole with cooking spray.
Step
2
In 10-inch skillet, cook sausage over medium heat 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink; drain.
Step
3
Meanwhile, in 3-quart saucepan, heat water and salt to boiling. Slowly stir in grits; reduce heat. Cover and cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally; remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup of the cheese and the butter until melted. Stir in eggs, milk and sausage.
Step
4
Pour grits mixture into casserole. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
Step
5
Bake casserole uncovered 25 to 30 minutes or until center is set. Cool 10 minutes before serving.
This cheesy casserole makes a great brunch dish. Pair it with a bowl of fresh fruit and a side of thickly-sliced Texas toast.
"Grits" is simply another name for ground corn and can be bought in several grinds from coarse to fine. The finest milled corn grits are cornmeal, used to make cornbread.
