Country Grits and Sausage Casserole

Ingredients

• 0.5 teaspoon thyme leaves dried
• 4 large eggs lightly beaten
• 0.1 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 2 pounds mild ground pork sausage 
• 1 cup milk 
• 10 servings paprika 
• 10 servings garnish: parsley sprigs fresh
• 1.3 cups quick-cooking grits uncooked
• 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 4 cups water 

Equipment

• frying pan
• sauce pan
• oven
• baking pan

Directions

1. Brown sausage in a large skillet, stirring until it crumbles.
2. Drain well, and set aside.
3. Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan, and stir in grits. Return to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat; add cheese and next 3 ingredients, stirring until cheese melts. Stir in sausage and eggs.
5. Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 13" x 9" x 2" baking dish; sprinkle with paprika.
6. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 1 hour or until golden and heated.
7. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish, if desired.
9. Make-Ahead: Prepare grits mixture as directed above, but do not bake. Cover and chill overnight.
10. Remove from refrigerator; let stand, covered 30 minutes. Uncover and bake as directed.