Ingredients

1 1/2poundssmoked sausage, chopped

1/2teaspoontable salt

1 1/2cupsuncooked quick-cooking grits

2(8-oz.)

Bring salt and 4 1/2 cups water to a boil in a large Dutch oven over high heat.

Whisk in grits, and return to a boil.

Smoky Sausage-and-Grits Casserole

Credit: Alison Miksch

Cover, reduce heat to medium, and simmer 5 minutes or until thickened, whisking occasionally.

Remove from heat; add cheese, stirring until completely melted.

Stir in milk and next 4 ingredients.

Spoon mixture into a lightly greased (with cooking spray) 13- x 9-inch baking dish.

Bake at 350 for 50 minutes to 1 hour or until golden and cooked through.

Let stand 5 minutes before serving.