​Cooking Southern Comfort at Home: A Recipe from Four Oaks’ Country Favorites Cookbook

If there’s one thing that brings people together, it’s the taste of home-cooked Southern comfort food. At Four Oaks Farm Country Store, we’re passionate about sharing the flavors of the South, from our high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to our cherished recipes. Our Four Oaks’ Country Favorites Cookbook offers a selection of classic Southern dishes, perfect for creating warm memories around the table. In today’s blog, we’re diving into one of our favorite recipes: Country Ham and Grits Casserole—a dish that’s simple, hearty, and brimming with rich Southern flavors. Join us as we guide you through the recipe and share tips for making the perfect comfort food, Southern-style.

The Legacy of Southern Cooking at Four Oaks Farm

Southern cuisine has a long-standing tradition of comfort, flavor, and hospitality. At Four Oaks Farm, we embrace this heritage by crafting our products with love and quality, ensuring that every bite brings you closer to the heart of the South. Our cookbook, Four Oaks’ Country Favorites, celebrates this tradition with recipes that capture the authentic flavors of our region. From savory hams to creamy grits, each recipe reflects the soul of Southern cooking—warm, inviting, and always satisfying.

Whether you’re an experienced chef or a home cook, this recipe is easy to follow, bringing delicious Southern comfort to your table with minimal effort. The Country Ham and Grits Casserole is a standout recipe, combining creamy grits with our premium Four Oaks Country Ham, offering a comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Recipe Spotlight: Country Ham and Grits Casserole

Ingredients:

1.Prepare the Grits: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and stir in the grits slowly to avoid clumping. Lower the heat and let the grits cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re creamy and thick.

2.Add Flavor: Stir in the milk, butter, and cheddar cheese, allowing the ingredients to melt into the grits for a rich, creamy texture. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

3.Add the Ham: Fold in the diced Four Oaks Country Ham, mixing thoroughly so that every spoonful is filled with savory ham goodness.

4.Combine with Eggs: Once the grits have cooled slightly, slowly incorporate the beaten eggs, stirring quickly to prevent the eggs from cooking before fully blending in. The eggs will help bind the casserole, adding a light, fluffy texture.

5.Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour the grits mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and lightly golden on top.

6.Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting taste of the South.

Why This Recipe Is a Southern Classic

The Country Ham and Grits Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Southern tradition. Here’s what makes this dish a staple in Southern kitchens:

1. Use Stone-Ground Grits

For true Southern flavor, always use stone-ground grits. They retain more of the corn’s natural flavors and textures, adding authenticity to the dish. Quick-cooking or instant grits may save time, but they don’t offer the same rich, hearty texture.

2. Choose High-Quality Ham

The ham you use makes a difference. Four Oaks Country Ham is cured and smoked to perfection, adding a depth of flavor that complements the creamy grits. Our ham pairs beautifully in this casserole, adding a savory, smoky richness to every bite.

3. Don’t Skimp on Cheese

Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the creamy grits and savory ham. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like sharp white cheddar or Monterey Jack, to suit your personal taste.

4. Customize with Vegetables

For a unique twist, add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach to the casserole. These additions bring color, texture, and additional flavor, creating a more robust dish that can stand alone as a meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Country Ham and Grits Casserole is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with other Southern sides for a complete meal. Here are some ideas for serving:

At Four Oaks Farm, we’re dedicated to offering the finest Southern ingredients and products. Our store features a wide range of pantry staples, from stone-ground grits to expertly cured hams, that help you create classic Southern dishes at home. Each product is crafted with quality and authenticity in mind, allowing you to experience the true flavors of Southern cooking in your own kitchen. Our Four Oaks’ Country Favorites Cookbook is filled with recipes like this casserole, giving you endless ways to enjoy Southern comfort food.

Conclusion

The Country Ham and Grits Casserole from our Four Oaks’ Country Favorites Cookbook is a dish that embodies the warmth, flavor, and hospitality of Southern cuisine. With high-quality ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet family meal or a large gathering. At Four Oaks Farm, we’re proud to share the flavors of the South with our customers, bringing you closer to the heart of Southern cooking.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect ingredients or a unique recipe to try, Four Oaks Farm has everything you need to bring Southern comfort to your table. Try this casserole and explore our cookbook for more delicious recipes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the South.