Southern Grit Casserole

Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2 -Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 3 -In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the sausage and cook, while stirring often, until the meat is browned and it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F, about 7-9 minutes.

Step 4 -Transfer the sausage to paper towels to drain.

Step 5 -In a large Dutch oven over high heat, add the water and the table salt and bring it to a boil.

Step 6 -Add the grits and whisk to ensure they are distributed throughout the water.

Step 7 -Bring the grit mixture to a boil.

Step 8 -Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium.

Step 9 -Simmer the grits, whisking occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Step 10 -Transfer the pot from the heat.

Step 11 -Add the cheese to the grits mixture and stir until completely melted.

Step 12 -Add the milk, the thyme, the garlic powder, the black pepper, and the eggs to the grits mixture and stir to combine.

Step 13 -Add the browned sausage to the grits mixture and stir to combine.

Step 14 -Bake until the casserole is golden and cooked through, about 50 minutes-1 hour.

Step 15 -Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes.

Step 16 -Serve.