Grits and Sausage Casserole

Grits and Sausage Casserole 1 lb ground pork sausage 4 1/4 cups water 2 teaspoons salt 1 cup quick-cooking grits 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese 4 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Preheat the oven to 350° and lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Cook the pork sausage in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain the grease away and set aside. Heat the water in a medium saucepan to boiling. Stir in the salt and whisk in the grits. Stir briskly to prevent clumping. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add the drained sausage (reserving about ¼ cup for the topping), cheddar, and cream cheese and pepper into the grits. Stir well and pour into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining sausage on top and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.