Three-Cheese Kielbasa Bake
My aunt originally made this hearty casserole for family gatherings. Now I enjoy fixing it for my family any night of the week. What a great way to sneak in some garden veggies.
My aunt originally made this hearty casserole for family gatherings. Now I enjoy fixing it for my family any night of the week. What a great way to sneak in some garden veggies.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 green onions chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 medium onions chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 carton (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 2 medium carrots grated
- 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) stewed tomatoes
- 2 medium zucchini quartered and sliced
- 12 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 pounds johnsonville® fully cooked polish kielbasa sausage rope, halved lengthwise and
- 1 jar (26 ounces) spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
- Carbohydrate 152.907831936015 g
- Cholesterol 244.35 mg
- Fat 51.1269362210397 g
- Fiber 11.5816801667523 g
- Protein 62.6611979906812 g
- Saturated Fat 29.4670766321091 g
- Serving Size 1 1 casseroles (8-10 servings each). (1165g)
- Sodium 933.567538849521 mg
- Sugar 141.326151769263 g
- Trans Fat 3.76152901733935 g
- Calories 1320 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, brown sausage in oil over medium heat; drain.
- Add the onions, zucchini, carrots and garlic; cook and stir for 5-6 minutes or until crisp-tender.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
- Drain macaroni.
- In a small bowl, combine egg and ricotta cheese.
- In each of two greased 13x9-in. baking dishes, layer a fourth of each of the following: macaroni, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, cheddar and mozzarella. Repeat layers.
- Top with green onions.
- Cool one casserole; cover and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Cover and bake the remaining casserole at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Uncover; bake 15 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
- To use frozen casserole: Thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until heated through.
Three-Cheese Kielbasa Bake: A Family Favorite
This Three-Cheese Kielbasa Bake recipe has been a staple in my family for years. It all started with my aunt, who used to make this hearty casserole for every family gathering. The rich flavors, the comforting warmth, the sheer abundance of cheesy goodness – it was always a crowd-pleaser. Now, it's a regular in my own kitchen, a quick and easy weeknight meal that my family eagerly anticipates. And the best part? It's a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables!
I remember the first time I tried my aunt's recipe. It was a bustling holiday gathering, the air filled with the aromas of roasted turkey and warm spices. This casserole, nestled amongst a spread of other festive dishes, immediately caught my eye. The bubbling cheese, the vibrant green onions peeking out from the top – it was visually stunning. But it was the taste that truly captivated me. The creamy ricotta, the sharp cheddar, and the melty mozzarella were a symphony of flavors, perfectly complemented by the savory kielbasa and the sweetness of the garden vegetables. It was a revelation; a dish that could satisfy both my craving for comfort food and my need for something wholesome.
Over the years, I've adapted the recipe slightly to fit my own preferences and lifestyle. I've experimented with different types of cheese, added more vegetables depending on what's in season, and even perfected the art of freezing half the casserole for another day. It's incredibly versatile, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. You can easily assemble it in advance, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe special?
- The perfect blend of cheeses: The combination of ricotta, cheddar, and mozzarella creates a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying cheese sauce that coats every bite.
- The savory kielbasa: Fully cooked kielbasa adds a delicious smoky flavor and satisfying texture, making this casserole a complete meal in itself.
- Hidden vegetables: The carrots, zucchini, and onions add a surprising amount of nutrients and a subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
- Easy to make and freeze: This recipe is a lifesaver for busy people. You can easily double the recipe and freeze half for another time.
- Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheeses to personalize this dish to your own liking.
I've often been asked for tips and tricks to make this recipe even better. Here are a few suggestions:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality vegetables and cheese.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook the macaroni according to package directions, but be careful not to overcook it. It should be al dente.
- Let the casserole rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve it with a side salad: A simple green salad is the perfect complement to this hearty casserole.
This Three-Cheese Kielbasa Bake is more than just a recipe; it's a tradition, a comfort food, and a delicious way to bring people together. It's a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, warm kitchens, and the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this unforgettable casserole!
