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Grits Casserole with Bacon: A Hearty Delight

Grits casserole is a classic dish that hails from the southern United States, popularly enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting side dish. This particular recipe features the delightful addition of crispy bacon, elevating the dish into a hearty option that can be savoured any time of day. Whether you’re seeking a filling brunch menu or looking to impress guests at a gathering, this grits casserole with bacon is undoubtedly a winner.

Understanding Grits

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a moment to understand what grits are. Grits are made from ground corn, traditionally white or yellow, and are a staple in southern cuisine. Cooked slowly, they develop a creamy texture that serves as the perfect base for various ingredients. While they are often served as a side dish or porridge, baking them into a casserole with cheesy goodness and crispy bacon creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

To create this flavourful grits casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 200g of stone-ground grits
• 1.5 litres of water or chicken broth
• 250g of bacon, chopped
• 250g of sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 250ml of milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Fresh chives or spring onions for garnish

Method

Step 1: Preparing the Grits

1. Cook the Grits: In a large saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually stir in the grits, reducing the heat to low. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps. Once thickened, remove from heat.

2. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted. This will give the casserole a rich and creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cooking the Bacon

1. Crisp the Bacon: In a frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on kitchen paper to absorb excess fat. Keep a tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pan for cooking the onions.

Step 3: Sautéing Aromatics

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the reserved bacon drippings. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked grits, sautéed onions, crispy bacon, milk, and eggs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil and pour in the grits mixture, spreading it evenly.

2. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with fresh chives or spring onions if desired. The grits casserole with bacon pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or slices of ripe tomatoes, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Conclusion

This grits casserole with bacon is a true crowd-pleaser, combining creamy textures with the smoky flavour of bacon. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a practical choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend brunches. Next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings, celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Southern cooking with a delightful British twist. Enjoy!