Polish Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of classic Polish cuisine with the familiarity of Italian pasta. This baked casserole features pasta enveloped in a rich and savory tomato sauce, layered with Polish kielbasa sausage, sautéed onions, and a generous amount of melted cheese. Whether you have Polish roots or simply appreciate a delicious and filling meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
- 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 1 pound Polish kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta:
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sautéing the Onions and Kielbasa:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa sausage rounds and cook until they are browned and have released some of their flavorful juices. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the cooked kielbasa from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Preparing the Tomato Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Mix everything well, allowing the flavors to meld, and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assembling the Polish Pasta Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked pasta over the sauce.
- Spread half of the browned kielbasa slices over the pasta.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the kielbasa.
- Repeat the layers: sauce, pasta, kielbasa, and cheese.
Baking and Serving:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optionally, remove the foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, slightly crispy top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Allow the Polish Pasta Bake to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations and Tips
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the tomato sauce.
- Spice It Up: For some extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the tomato sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, to suit your taste.
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This is great for meal prep or entertaining.
- Serve with Bread: Polish Pasta Bake pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for sopping up the delicious sauce.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Polish Pasta Bake is a delightful fusion of Polish and Italian flavors, creating a satisfying and heartwarming dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening. With savory kielbasa, a rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, each bite is a delicious blend of textures and tastes. Whether you have Polish heritage or simply appreciate a hearty and flavorful casserole, this dish will undoubtedly find a special place in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of Polish Pasta Bake!
