Ham and Cheese Grits Casserole

If you’re ready for a simple but hearty breakfast, this is the post for you! This is a recipe for delicious hand and cheese grits, perfect for your family or even for a crowd! 

Ham. . .in Grits? 

That was the first question that came to mind as I stared at the recipe I found online at All Recipes. I was baking for a crowd and needed something to make that would fill 10 bellies. And the idea of ham seemed like perfection, because I'd just purchased a huge package of sliced sandwich-style hame. I also happened to have the other ingredients on hand.

So, I decided to go with it!

I adjusted measurements to fit my pan (8x10-inch) and you can feel free to do the same. The result? Well, you'll have to see for yourself, but I'd say these are (as we say in the south) 'pert near perfect!

These are delicious, creamy grits, packed full of flavor and texture. These are great for breakfast but I think they would make a good lunch or dinner, too! 

Grits Casserole Ingredients

So, what are we waiting for? Let’s keep this one short and sweet. Here are the ingredients you’ll need! 

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 2 cups chopped cooked ham
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided 
• 4 (lightly beaten) eggs
• ¼ cup chopped onion
• 3 tablespoons parsley (fresh or dried)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Ham and Cheese Grits Casserole

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Chop ham and set aside. 

Grate cheese and set aside. 

Chop onion and set aside. 

Measure herbs and spices and set aside. 

Beat eggs and set aside. 

Spray an 8x10-inch pan with nonstick spray. Set aside. 

Combine milk and water in a heavy duty saucepan. Place over medium-high heat. Add grits and bring to a simmer, then lower the temperature a bit. Cook for about five minutes or until the grits are thick, stirring often, stirring frequently. 

Stir chopped ham, 1.5 cups Cheddar cheese, (beaten) eggs, onion, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into grits.

Stir well!

Transfer the grits to your prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle with remaining cheese. 

Bake in the preheated oven until set, about 25 minutes.

Remove and allow to cool slightly before serving. 

Serve and enjoy! 

Leftovers can be store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to three days. I don’t recommend freezing these grits. 

What to Enjoy About This Ham and Cheese Grits Casserole

• Rich, creamy comfort. Velvety smooth grits combined with melty cheese create the ultimate cozy, satisfying bite.
• Savory, smoky flavor. Hearty ham adds a delicious, salty depth that pairs perfectly with the mild, creamy grits.
• Perfect make-ahead option. Assemble it in advance and bake when needed — ideal for busy mornings or hosting guests.
• Feeds a crowd. Generous portions make this a go-to recipe for brunches, potlucks, or holiday mornings.
• Versatile and flexible. Swap cheeses, add veggies, or spice it up — this casserole adapts beautifully to your tastes.
• Down-home, feel-good food. Every bite feels like a warm hug — familiar, satisfying, and made to share.

That’s it for this post, friends!

I hope you enjoyed this delicious grits casserole recipe. The crowd at our event loved it! 

If you make this recipe and love it, don’t forget to leave a review and a comment below. And while you're at it, go ahead and pin some photos to your Pinterest boards!

About the Author

Janice Thompson is an author, baker, and all-around mischief maker! She has overcome a host of baking catastrophes, including a toppled wedding cake, to learn more about the baking process. Janice has published over 165 books for the Christian market but particularly enjoys writing recipes and baking devotions. To learn more about Janice or to drop her a note, visit her About the Author page.