Polish Pasta Casserole is a rich and savory dish that brings together the smoky flavors of Polish sausage (kielbasa), tangy sauerkraut, tender pasta, and a creamy mustard sauce topped with melted Swiss cheese. This comforting casserole is a perfect meal for those who love hearty and filling food with layers of flavor. It’s great for family dinners or potlucks, and it’s easy to make ahead and bake when ready.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
This dish is full of contrasting yet complementary flavors—the smokiness of the sausage, the tanginess of the sauerkraut, the creamy texture of the cheese sauce, and the bite of the mustard all come together to create a delicious and filling meal. The Swiss cheese adds a nutty richness, and the pasta makes it wonderfully satisfying. It’s an easy dish to prepare and can be customized with different types of sausage or cheese for variety.
Ingredients: A Delicious and Hearty Combination
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Polish Pasta Casserole:
- Smoked Polish Sausage or Kielbasa: 1.5 lbs, sliced for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Pasta of Choice: 4 cups of any pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni work well).
- Butter: 2 tablespoons for the roux.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons to thicken the sauce.
- Milk: 2.5 cups for the creamy base of the sauce.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup for creaminess and tang.
- Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons for a sharp, tangy bite.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for added flavor.
- Sauerkraut: 1 jar (16 ounces), washed and thoroughly drained to remove excess brine.
- Swiss Cheese: 3 cups of grated Swiss cheese, divided, for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Polish Pasta Casserole
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the sauerkraut, half of the sliced sausage, and half of the grated Swiss cheese. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the top and spread it evenly.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauerkraut, sausage, Swiss cheese, and sauce, making sure everything is evenly distributed.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The top should be golden and slightly crisp.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Polish Pasta Casserole!
Variations and Tips
- Use Different Sausages: You can swap the Polish sausage for smoked or spicy sausage if you prefer different flavors.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach between the layers.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to complement it:
- Side Salad: Serve with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Crusty Bread: Offer warm bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping into the cheesy sauce.
- Pickles: A side of pickles or marinated vegetables adds a nice crunch and tang that pairs well with the dish.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion: A Rich and Flavorful Casserole
Polish Pasta Casserole is a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a comforting weeknight dinner. With layers of smoky sausage, tangy sauerkraut, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta, this casserole delivers bold flavors in every bite. It’s an easy dish to prepare ahead of time and can be adapted with your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy this comforting casserole with your favorite sides and savor the blend of savory and tangy flavors!
