1 lb. bulk pork sausage
1 c. quick cooking grits
8 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 c. milk
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/4 c. butter
2 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese; divided

Cook sausage over medium heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain well and set aside.

Cook grits according to package directions (I use more grits, it makes the casserole more dense). Combine eggs, milk, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Stir in prepared grits. Add butter and 1 1/2 cups of cheese, stirring until the cheese melts. Stir in the sausage. Spoon into a greased 3 quart casserole. Bake, uncovered at 350 degrees for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 (plus) cheese. Bake an additional 2 minutes or until cheese melts. Yield: 8 to 10 servings.