The Polish Pasta Bake

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Description:
The Polish Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that combines pasta with savory Polish flavors, featuring ingredients like kielbasa, sauerkraut, and a creamy cheese sauce. This baked casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will please both adults and kids. It’s an easy one-dish meal that’s satisfying and delicious!

Ingredients:

  • Pasta (penne or fusilli): 3 cups (about 12 oz / 340 g)
  • Kielbasa (sliced): 1 lb (450 g)
  • Sauerkraut (drained): 1 cup (240 g)
  • Onion (chopped): 1 medium
  • Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
  • Cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g)
  • Sour cream: 1 cup (240 g)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
  • Salt: ½ tsp
  • Black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Paprika: 1 tsp
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta:
    In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté the kielbasa and vegetables:
    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it starts to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Combine the ingredients:
    In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, sautéed kielbasa and onion mixture, sauerkraut, cream cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
  5. Transfer to the baking dish:
    Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly.
  6. Add cheese:
    Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture.
  7. Bake the casserole:
    Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Cool and serve:
    Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  9. Enjoy:
    Serve warm as a hearty main dish and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Polish-inspired pasta bake!

Tips for Success:

  • Substitutions: You can substitute the kielbasa with other sausages or cooked chicken for a different flavor.
  • Make it spicy: For a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Recommendations:

  • Serving suggestions: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Add toppings: Consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top for an extra crunchy texture before baking.
  • Freezing: This dish freezes well; assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg

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