Cheesy Grit Casserole

Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Step 2 -In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage and the onions and cook, while crumbling the sausage, until the meat is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3 -Drain the excess grease from the skillet.

Step 4 -In a large saucepan, add the water and the salt and bring it to a boil.

Step 5 -Slowly add the grits to the salted, boiling water and stir to combine.

Step 6 -Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the saucepan.

Step 7 -Cook the grits, while stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Step 8 -Transfer the saucepan from the heat.

Step 9 -Add the green chiles and their juices, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup of the Monterey Jack cheese, the butter, and the hot pepper sauce to the grits and stir until the cheese has melted.

Step 10 -Add the eggs and the sausage mixture to the grit mixture and stir to combine.

Step 11 -Transfer the grit mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 12 -Evenly top the grits mixture with the remaining cheddar cheese and the remaining Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 13 -Sprinkle the top of the cheese layer with the paprika.

Step 14 -Bake the grit casserole, uncovered, until golden-brown and set, about 50 minutes-1 hour.

Step 15 -Transfer the casserole from the oven and let it stand for about 10 minutes.

Step 16 -Sprinkle with the cilantro and serve.