Savory Sausage, Grits & Pecan Bake
This Savory Sausage, Grits & Pecan Bake is the perfect centerpiece for your brunch table. With creamy, cheesy grits at its base, complemented by sautéed breakfast sausage and crunchy pecans, this casserole is a symphony of flavors and textures. Not only does it come together quickly, but it also holds well, making it ideal for those busy mornings. Serve it warm with fresh fruit and crusty bread for a brunch experience that feels indulgent yet effortless. Your guests will be asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
4 cups (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
quick-cooking grits
1 cup (none)
sharp cheddar cheese
1.5 cups (shredded)
butter or margarine
4 tablespoons (melted)
large eggs
4 (lightly beaten)
milk
1/2 cup (none)
mild breakfast sausage
8 ounces (browned and drained)
pecans
3/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Sausage, Grits & Pecan Bake?
It is a savory brunch casserole featuring a base of creamy cheesy grits, topped with sautéed breakfast sausage and crunchy pecans.
What type of grits should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for one cup of quick-cooking grits.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While the recipe suggests sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, you can use other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
How should the sausage be prepared before adding it to the bake?
The mild breakfast sausage should be browned in a skillet and thoroughly drained of excess fat.
Are the pecans raw or toasted?
The recipe specifies chopped pecans; you can use them raw as they will toast slightly during the baking process.
Is this recipe suitable for a make-ahead meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a make-ahead dish, making it ideal for busy mornings or scheduled brunches.
How many eggs are required?
You will need 4 large eggs, which should be lightly beaten.
What side dishes pair well with this grit bake?
It is recommended to serve this dish warm with fresh fruit and crusty bread.
How much milk is used in the mixture?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of milk.
Can I use butter or margarine?
Yes, the recipe allows for 4 tablespoons of either melted butter or margarine.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it uses mild breakfast sausage, though you could substitute spicy sausage if you prefer more heat.
What is the texture of the Savory Sausage, Grits & Pecan Bake?
It features a creamy and cheesy texture from the grits and cheese, contrasted by the crunch of pecans and the heartiness of sausage.
How much water is needed to cook the grits?
You will need 4 cups of water.
How much salt is added to the water?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 total ingredients listed for this dish.
Can I use sharp cheddar cheese that isn't shredded?
The recipe specifies 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for even melting.
What makes this bake a 'comfort food'?
The combination of warm grits, melted cheese, and savory sausage creates a rich, satisfying, and hearty meal.
Is this recipe considered a breakfast or lunch item?
It is versatile and tagged for both breakfast and brunch.
How much sausage is included?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of mild breakfast sausage.
How much pecan topping is used?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of chopped pecans.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, this is a savory dish and does not list sugar as an ingredient.
Does the recipe require a specific preparation for the eggs?
The 4 large eggs should be lightly beaten before being incorporated.
What is the primary category for this dish?
It is classified as a breakfast/brunch casserole.
Can I substitute the water for broth?
While the recipe calls for water, using chicken or vegetable broth can add extra depth of flavor to the grits.
How should the butter be prepared?
The 4 tablespoons of butter or margarine should be melted.
Can I omit the pecans if I have an allergy?
Yes, you can omit the pecans or replace them with a seed like sunflower seeds if you want a similar crunch.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Grits are naturally gluten-free, but you should verify that your sausage and other processed ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this bake?
Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach would be excellent additions to increase the nutritional profile.
How long does it take to prepare?
The description notes that it comes together quickly, especially since it uses quick-cooking grits.
Is it a filling meal?
Yes, the combination of protein from the sausage and eggs with the fiber and bulk of the grits makes it very hearty.