Dive into the rich and comforting flavors of Eastern Europe with this delightful Polish Pasta Casserole. This hearty dish combines the simplicity of pasta with the bold and savory notes of Polish sausage and sauerkraut. A true celebration of homestyle cooking, this casserole is a perfect way to bring the warmth and hospitality of Polish cuisine to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound wide egg noodles
- 1 pound Polish sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked casserole with layers of melted cheese and savory goodness.
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Sausage and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced Polish sausage until browned. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Incorporate Sauerkraut: Add the drained and rinsed sauerkraut to the skillet, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauerkraut Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the sausage and sauerkraut mixture. Toss until well mixed.
- Add Sour Cream and Cheese: Stir in the sour cream, shredded mozzarella, and shredded cheddar cheese. The sour cream adds a creamy texture, while the combination of cheeses creates a gooey and flavorful casserole.
- Season and Transfer to Baking Dish: Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer the entire mixture to a buttered baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Drizzle with Melted Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole, ensuring an extra layer of richness and flavor.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the Polish Pasta Casserole rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Eastern Europe.
Cook Notes:
- Quality Polish Sausage: Choose a high-quality Polish sausage for an authentic and robust flavor. Smoked or kielbasa varieties work well in this casserole.
- Adjust Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese blends based on your preferences. A combination of Swiss and Gouda can add a unique twist to the casserole.
Variations:
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, omit the Polish sausage and substitute it with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
Herb Infusion: Add a touch of fresh dill or caraway seeds to the sour cream mixture for an extra layer of aromatic and earthy flavors.
Keto Version:
To create a keto-friendly version of this casserole, replace the wide egg noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Adjust the baking time as needed for the low-carb alternative.
Low Carb Version:
For a lower-carb option, use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash in place of the wide egg noodles. This provides a lighter base while still capturing the essence of the dish.
The Polish Pasta Casserole is a journey to the heart of Eastern European cuisine, where hearty flavors and comforting ingredients come together in a single dish. Whether you savor the classic version or explore variations to suit your taste, each forkful brings you closer to the warmth and tradition of Polish homestyle cooking. Share this casserole with loved ones and enjoy the cozy embrace of Eastern European flavors at your own dinner table!
