LOADED GRITS BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Loaded Grits Breakfast Casserole image

Provided by Robin Lieneke

Time 1h20m

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 lb bacon
1 lb ham, sliced and cut in 1/2 in. pieces
4 c water
1 1/2 tsp chicken base
1/4 c butter (1/2 stick)
1 1/4 c quick cooking grits
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 1/2 c sharp cheddar cheese
1 c milk
6 eggs, beaten
1 tsp garlic powder
2 scallions, thinly sliced
2 tsp chopped fresh parsley
3/4 tsp ground sage
salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Cut bacon into one inch pieces and cook until crisp. Remove from pan and drain on paper towel. Remove all but 2 tbsp of drippings from pan. Add diced ham to pan and heat through in remaining drippings. Remove from pan and drain with bacon.
2. Heat water, 1Tbsp. butter and chicken base to boiling. Add grits and reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until thick and creamy. Remove from heat and add remaining butter, cream cheese and 2 cups of the cheddar. Stir until completely combined.
3. Stir in milk, garlic powder, sage, scallions and parsley. Add eggs and stir until smooth. Add in bacon, ham and salt/ pepper and stir to combine.
4. Pour mixture into greased 9 x 13 pan. Top with remaining cheddar. Bake for 45-55 minutes. Let sit for 10-15 mins. before serving.