Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare two 9x13 inch baking dishes with nonstick cooking spray.

Place the water and ½ teaspoon salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce the heat to low; cover and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Beat the eggs and milk together; set aside.  

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grits, bacon, and cheese (reserving some cheese to sprinkle on top.) Add the butter, black pepper, and remaining salt, stirring everything together until well blended. 

Divide and pour into the prepared baking dishes. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Bake, uncovered, for about 1 hour or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.  Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting.

To freeze, bake the casseroles and allow to cool. Freeze tightly wrapped casseroles in the dishes or slice into portions and wrap individually in plastic wrap before pacing in an airtight freezer container.