Embark on a culinary journey to Poland with our comforting and flavorful Polish Pasta Casserole. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of smoked Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese, all nestled in a bed of tender pasta. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this casserole promises to satisfy even the heartiest appetites while transporting you to the cozy kitchens of Eastern Europe. Join us as we explore every step of this delicious recipe, from the creamy sauce to the flavorful toppings, and discover why Polish Pasta Casserole is a beloved classic in kitchens around the world.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups uncooked short pasta, such as penne or fusilli
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 (16 oz) jar sauerkraut, rinsed and well-drained
- 1 1/2 lbs smoked Polish sausage or kielbasa, sliced 1/2-inch thick
- 3 cups Swiss cheese, grated and divided
- 4 green onions, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add Sour Cream and Seasonings:
- Stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread half of the cooked pasta in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sauerkraut and sliced Polish sausage. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of grated Swiss cheese.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauerkraut, sausage, and Swiss cheese.
- Pour Sauce Over the Casserole:
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layered casserole, ensuring that all ingredients are well coated.
- Top with Green Onions:
- Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the casserole for added flavor and color.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Polish Pasta Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add extra sauerkraut or your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, for a vegetarian version of the casserole.
- Add-Ons: Enhance the flavor of the casserole by adding diced apples or caraway seeds to the sauerkraut layer for a touch of sweetness and earthiness.
- Herb Variation: Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or dill to the creamy sauce for a burst of freshness.
Keto Version: For a keto-friendly version of Polish Pasta Casserole, substitute the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for thickening the sauce, and use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Opt for a low-carb sauerkraut and sausage, and use a keto-friendly cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella.
Low Carb Version: To reduce the carb content of Polish Pasta Casserole, use a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash. Replace the flour-based sauce with a mixture of heavy cream and chicken broth thickened with xanthan gum or glucomannan powder. Choose low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli to add bulk to the casserole, and use a blend of low-carb cheeses such as Monterey Jack and Parmesan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use other types of sausage such as bratwurst or Italian sausage if you prefer. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning to suit the flavor profile of the sausage you choose.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Polish Pasta Casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven or microwave.
In conclusion, Polish Pasta Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its comforting combination of sauerkraut, smoked sausage, and Swiss cheese, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a taste of Poland or simply looking for a comforting meal to enjoy with loved ones, this casserole delivers on flavor and comfort. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to savor the deliciousness of Polish Pasta Casserole tonight!
