Looking for a hearty and comforting dish that will transport you straight to the heart of Eastern Europe? Look no further than our Polish Pasta Casserole! Packed with flavorful smoked Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese, this comforting casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or planning a gathering with friends, this delicious dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. So, dust off your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary journey to Poland with our mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs of smoked Polish sausage or kielbasa, sliced
- 4 cups of pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2.5 cups of milk
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 jar of sauerkraut, washed and thoroughly drained, 16 ounces
- 3 cups of grated Swiss cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta followed by half of the sliced sausage and half of the drained sauerkraut. Pour half of the sauce over the top and sprinkle with half of the grated Swiss cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Variation: Feel free to substitute the Swiss cheese with your favorite cheese, such as Gruyere or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Adaptation: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Replace the flour with almond flour or coconut flour for the sauce, and use full-fat sour cream to reduce the carb content.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of pasta or omit it altogether, and double the amount of sausage and sauerkraut for a lower-carb version. Use a keto-friendly thickener like xanthan gum instead of flour for the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage, bratwurst, or chorizo, for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting with a cold dish.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftovers can be frozen for future enjoyment. Simply allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
With its rich and savory flavors, our Polish Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this easy-to-make dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a taste of Poland with this irresistible casserole recipe!
