Charleston Breakfast Casserole: A Southern Delight for Any Occasion

Charleston Breakfast Casserole is a beloved dish in the South, known for its rich flavors, creamy texture, and ease of preparation. This make-ahead casserole is perfect for holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or simply a comforting weekend morning meal. It combines the best of Southern ingredients – creamy cheese grits, savory sausage, and plenty of cheese – into a satisfying and crowd-pleasing dish. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating an authentic and delicious Charleston Breakfast Casserole that will impress your family and friends.

## What Makes Charleston Breakfast Casserole Special?

Several factors contribute to the unique appeal of this casserole:

* **Creamy Cheese Grits:** Unlike regular grits, cheese grits are cooked with milk, butter, and cheese, creating a rich and flavorful base for the casserole.
* **Savory Sausage:** The sausage adds a salty and savory element that complements the creamy grits and cheese.
* **Make-Ahead Convenience:** The casserole can be assembled a day or two in advance and baked when needed, making it ideal for busy mornings or entertaining.
* **Versatility:** You can easily customize the recipe by adding vegetables, different types of cheese, or swapping out the sausage for bacon or ham.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

* **Grits:** 1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant)
* **Water:** 4 cups
* **Milk:** 2 cups
* **Butter:** 1/2 cup (1 stick), unsalted
* **Sharp Cheddar Cheese:** 2 cups, shredded
* **Monterey Jack Cheese:** 1 cup, shredded
* **Cream Cheese:** 8 ounces, softened
* **Sausage:** 1 pound, breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
* **Eggs:** 6 large
* **Green Onions:** 1/4 cup, chopped (optional, for garnish)
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, or to taste
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
* **Cooking Spray:** For greasing the baking dish

## Equipment

* Large saucepan
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large bowl
* Whisk
* Spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create a perfect Charleston Breakfast Casserole:

### 1. Cook the Grits

* **Bring water and milk to a boil:** In a large saucepan, combine the water and milk. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
* **Whisk in the grits:** Slowly whisk in the grits, making sure to avoid any clumps. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the grits are tender and creamy. Stirring frequently is KEY to prevent sticking and burning. This also contributes to a smoother final texture.
* **Add butter and cheese:** Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and well combined. Make sure the cheese is fully incorporated for a smooth and creamy texture.
* **Incorporate Cream Cheese:** Add the softened cream cheese. Stir until completely melted and evenly distributed throughout the grits. The cream cheese adds a tanginess and contributes to the overall creamy texture.
* **Season:** Season the grits with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

### 2. Prepare the Sausage

* **Cook the sausage:** In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Be sure the sausage is thoroughly cooked to ensure food safety.
* **Crumble the sausage:** Crumble the cooked sausage into small pieces. This makes it easier to distribute evenly throughout the casserole.

### 3. Assemble the Casserole

* **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and prevents the casserole from drying out.
* **Grease the baking dish:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish and makes it easier to serve.
* **Combine grits and sausage:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked cheese grits and crumbled sausage. Mix well to ensure the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the grits. This mixture forms the base of the casserole.
* **Add the eggs:** In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. Pour the whisked eggs over the grits and sausage mixture. Stir gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the casserole tough.
* **Pour into baking dish:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Ensure an even layer for consistent baking.

### 4. Bake the Casserole

* **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
* **Rest:** Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set up further and makes it easier to slice.

### 5. Garnish and Serve

* **Garnish:** Garnish with chopped green onions (optional). This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
* **Serve:** Serve the Charleston Breakfast Casserole warm. It can be served as a main dish for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

## Tips for the Best Charleston Breakfast Casserole

* **Use stone-ground grits:** Stone-ground grits have a coarser texture and a more pronounced corn flavor than instant grits, resulting in a better casserole.
* **Cook the grits properly:** Simmer the grits slowly and stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure a creamy texture.
* **Use high-quality cheese:** The quality of the cheese greatly impacts the flavor of the casserole. Use sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for the best results.
* **Soften the cream cheese:** Softened cream cheese blends more easily into the grits, creating a smoother texture.
* **Don’t overbake:** Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Bake until it is set and lightly golden brown.
* **Let it rest:** Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it to set up and makes it easier to slice.

## Variations and Customizations

Charleston Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

* **Add vegetables:** Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the grits for added flavor and nutrition.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, pepper jack, or Parmesan, to create unique flavor combinations.
* **Swap the sausage:** Substitute the sausage with bacon, ham, chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles for a different protein option.
* **Add spices:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper to the grits for a little heat.
* **Top with hot sauce:** Serve the casserole with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
* **Jalapenos:** Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
* **Different Meats:** Consider adding shredded chicken, pulled pork, or even shrimp for a unique twist. Remember to pre-cook any meat you add.
* **Bread Crumbs:** For a crispy topping, sprinkle bread crumbs mixed with melted butter over the casserole before baking.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

One of the best things about Charleston Breakfast Casserole is that it can be made ahead of time. Here’s how:

* **Assemble the casserole:** Prepare the grits, cook the sausage, and assemble the casserole according to the recipe instructions.
* **Cover and refrigerate:** Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
* **Bake:** When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown.

## Serving Suggestions

Charleston Breakfast Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of sides:

* **Fresh fruit:** Serve with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries, melon, or grapes, for a light and refreshing contrast.
* **Biscuits or muffins:** Serve with warm biscuits or muffins for a heartier meal.
* **Salad:** Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
* **Orange juice or coffee:** Pair with orange juice or coffee for a classic breakfast or brunch beverage.
* **Hot Sauce or Gravy:** Offer hot sauce or gravy on the side for those who like a little extra flavor.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover Charleston Breakfast Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
* **Reheat:** To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
* **Freezing:** While not ideal, the casserole can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed (you may need to add a few more minutes to the baking time).

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 450-550
* Fat: 30-40g
* Saturated Fat: 15-20g
* Cholesterol: 200-250mg
* Sodium: 800-1000mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g
* Protein: 20-25g

_Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes._

## Why This Recipe Works

This Charleston Breakfast Casserole recipe stands out due to its:

* **Detailed Instructions:** Each step is thoroughly explained, ensuring success even for novice cooks.
* **Ingredient Balance:** The ratios of grits, cheese, sausage, and eggs are carefully balanced to create a harmonious flavor profile.
* **Make-Ahead Option:** The ability to prepare the casserole in advance simplifies meal planning, especially for special occasions.
* **Customizability:** The recipe encourages experimentation with various ingredients, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
* **Southern Charm:** It embodies the comforting and flavorful essence of Southern cuisine, making it a truly special dish.

## Conclusion

Charleston Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a brunch gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply looking for a comforting weekend breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy cheese grits, savory sausage, and make-ahead convenience, it is a true Southern classic that you will want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delicious flavors of Charleston in every bite!