Print

Savory Grits Breakfast Parfaits Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 11 reviews

Savory Grits Breakfast Parfaits combine creamy, cheesy grits layered with a flavorful sausage and spinach topping, making a delicious and convenient make-ahead breakfast option that can be quickly reheated.

Ingredients

For the Grits:

  • 2 1/2 cups water, plus more as needed
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 cup grits
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • 8 ounces uncooked chicken, turkey, or beef sausage, casings removed
  • 1 (5- to 6-ounce) bag baby spinach
  • Shredded cheese, thinly sliced green onion, or minced fresh chives, for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Grits: Bring 2 1/2 cups water, milk, and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the grits, then reduce heat to medium-low and whisk frequently for about 5 minutes until incorporated. Switch to a wooden spoon and stir every minute or two for about 45 minutes until grits become thick and creamy, adding water tablespoon by tablespoon if too dry.
  2. Prepare the Topping: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, season with salt, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted and liquid evaporates, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Assemble the Parfaits: Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the hot grits until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt. In 4 (1-pint) mason jars, layer half the sausage-spinach mixture, then half the grits (about 1/2 cup). Repeat layers with remaining sausage-spinach mixture and grits.
  4. Add Toppings and Store: Sprinkle each parfait with optional shredded cheese, green onions, or chives if desired. Let the jars cool completely, then seal and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  5. Reheat: To serve, remove jar lid, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave until heated through, stirring gently every 30 seconds for even heating.

Notes

  • For creamier grits, stir in water as needed during cooking to prevent dryness.
  • Use your preferred sausage variety: chicken, turkey, or beef all work well.
  • Optional toppings like shredded cheese or fresh herbs add extra flavor and presentation.
  • These parfaits make a perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch option and store well in the fridge.
  • Reheat carefully to avoid drying out the grits; stirring intermittently helps maintain creaminess.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/savory-grits-breakfast-parfaits-recipe/