Polish kielbasa casserole recipe

Summary

This polish kielbasa casserole recipe is a hearty, one-dish meal that combines sliced kielbasa with potatoes, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked together until golden and bubbly. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe serves 6-8 people and can be prepared ahead of time for convenient weeknight meals or entertaining.

Equipment

• Large casserole dish (9×13 inch)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Aluminum foil
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Polish kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium head cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the sliced onions for 5-6 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender. Season with paprika, caraway seeds, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared casserole dish, overlapping slightly. Top with half of the cabbage mixture, then half of the browned kielbasa.
7. Pour half of the cream mixture over the layers, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
8. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

• Choose a good quality Polish kielbasa for the best flavor – avoid overly processed varieties
• Slice potatoes uniformly for even cooking throughout the casserole
• The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking
• If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil during the final baking phase
• Test potato doneness with a knife – they should be easily pierced when fully cooked

Tips for Success

Mastering this polish kielbasa casserole recipe requires attention to layering and timing for optimal results. Start by browning the kielbasa properly to develop deep, smoky flavors that will permeate the entire dish. When sautéing the cabbage, cook it until truly tender to avoid any bitter notes in the finished casserole. Slice your potatoes uniformly using a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure even cooking throughout all layers. Don’t skip the resting period after baking, as this allows the casserole to set properly and makes serving much easier. If preparing ahead, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold. The casserole is done when a knife easily pierces through all potato layers and the top is beautifully golden brown.

Additional Tips and Variations

Transform your polish kielbasa casserole recipe with these creative variations and enhancements. For added richness, substitute Gruyère or Swiss cheese for half the cheddar, or try a blend of Polish cheeses if available. Vegetable lovers can add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes to the cabbage mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and reduce the heavy cream by half. Spice enthusiasts can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cabbage mixture. Consider using different potato varieties like red potatoes or fingerlings for varied texture and flavor. The dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this polish kielbasa casserole recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if cooking from cold.

What type of kielbasa works best for this recipe? Use a good quality Polish kielbasa or smoked sausage. Avoid overly processed varieties and look for ones with natural casings for the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze this polish kielbasa casserole recipe? Yes, the baked casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked? The potatoes should be easily pierced with a knife, the top should be golden brown, and the edges should be bubbling.

Can I substitute different vegetables in this recipe? Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even Brussels sprouts work well in place of or in addition to the cabbage.

Conclusion

This polish kielbasa casserole recipe delivers everything you could want in a comfort food dish: hearty satisfaction, authentic flavors, and foolproof preparation that guarantees success every time. The combination of smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and flavorful vegetables creates a meal that’s both deeply satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results when combined thoughtfully. Whether you’re discovering Polish cuisine for the first time or looking to recreate childhood memories, this polish kielbasa casserole recipe offers the perfect balance of tradition and convenience that fits seamlessly into modern life. The make-ahead friendly nature and generous serving size make it ideal for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the magic of one-dish cooking. With its rich, comforting flavors and impressive presentation, this polish kielbasa casserole recipe will quickly earn its place among your most treasured family recipes, creating delicious memories one satisfying bite at a time.