Grits and Sausage Breakfast

Serves about 6

16 ounces bulk sausage, cooked and crumbled
3 cups water
3/4 cup grits
2 cups cheddar cheese
2/3 cup evaporated milk, or regular milk
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
2 large eggs, beaten

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Boil water in medium pot and slowly stir in grits. Cover; reduce heat to low. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until done. Remove from heat.

Add 1 1/2 cups cheese, milk, and seasonings. Stir until cheese is melted. Add the sausage and eggs; stir well.

Pour into greased 8" square baking dish.

Bake for 1 hour. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 5 or so minutes or until cheese is melted. After removing from the oven, let it set for about 10 minutes before serving.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Makes about 24 muffins

3 cups flour
3/4 cup sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 eggs
1 1/4 cups pumpkin
1 3/4 cups milk
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl.

Combine wet ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts. Add dry ingredients and stir just until moistened.

Fill greased muffin cups nearly full. I use a large cookie scoop, which makes it easy and mess-free.

Bake 20 minutes, or until lightly browned. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to cooling rack.

These are best served warm!