Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky sausage, tender egg noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is a beloved Mennonite-inspired recipe that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in one easy dish.
Topped with melted cheddar cheese, and optionally, a buttery Ritz cracker crunch, this meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknights. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that satisfies every craving. If you’re searching for a quick, filling, and delicious casserole, Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
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What is Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole?
Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole… what a mouthful! And what a mystery! Does it involve a secret handshake? A hidden stash of noodles? Or perhaps a blessing whispered over bubbling cheese? One thing’s for certain: this isn’t just your average casserole. It’s a dish steeped in tradition, rumored to have originated in the hearty kitchens of Mennonite families, where wholesome ingredients and simple preparations reigned supreme.
Why “kielbasa”? Well, that’s just good, solid, flavorful sausage. And a casserole? Because everything’s better baked in a dish! I always say, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ and this casserole is a direct route! Hungry? Now, don’t you want to find out what all the fuss is about? Let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole:
Here’s everything you will need to gather together to make this tasty dish.
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage: Sliced into half-inch thick rounds. Feel free to use smoked or fresh kielbasa.
- 1 pound egg noodles: Cooked according to package directions and drained well.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: This forms the creamy base of the casserole.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds a richer flavor and complements the mushroom soup.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess. Can be substituted with plain Greek yogurt if desired.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds a savory element to the casserole.
- 1/4 cup milk: To thin the soup mixture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melted, for topping (optional).
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers: For topping, adds a buttery crunch (optional).
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking!
How to Make Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole:
This Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole is incredibly easy to make and takes less than an hour from start to finish. It’s a delicious and filling meal packed with creamy, cheesy goodness. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy. Prep time is about 15 minutes and cook time is approximately 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside. We want to avoid a watery casserole, so make sure those noodles are well-drained!
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and chopped onion. Stir until smooth and well combined. This creates the creamy, flavorful sauce for our casserole.
- Season the soup mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning! Remember, flavor is key, and a little salt and pepper can go a long way.
- Add the cooked egg noodles and sliced kielbasa to the soup mixture. Gently stir to coat everything evenly. Make sure the noodles and kielbasa are well dispersed throughout the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. We want that cheesy goodness in every bite!
- (Optional) In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese. This adds a delightful buttery crunch to the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using the Ritz cracker topping, bake until the topping is golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even further.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole
The main highlight of this Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole is definitely its comforting simplicity. It’s a no-fuss, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight but feels special enough for a potluck. In terms of cost savings, making this dish at home is significantly cheaper than ordering takeout or going to a restaurant. Kielbasa, noodles, and soup are budget-friendly ingredients that combine to create a hearty, satisfying meal.
The cheesy topping and the optional buttery Ritz cracker crust add a touch of indulgence that elevates the casserole to the next level. It’s similar to a tuna noodle casserole in its comfort and ease, but the kielbasa gives it a unique and delicious twist. Tempted? Then try this recipe out yourself and come with us on this flavorful adventure today.
What to Serve Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole With:
The Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole is a complete meal in itself, but you can enhance it with a few carefully chosen sides. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Steamed green beans or asparagus offer a healthy and colorful addition.
For a really hearty meal, serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Top Tips for Perfecting Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole:
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will turn mushy in the casserole. Cook them al dente for the best texture.
- Use good quality kielbasa: The flavor of the kielbasa is the star of the show, so choose a brand that you enjoy.
- Customize the cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup mixture for a little heat!
- Adjust the thickness: If the soup mixture seems too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Try making it in a slow cooker: If you do not have time to bake the Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole then try putting all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook for 2-3 hours.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing: Leftover Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Final Thoughts:
The Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole is a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with friends and family, this casserole is the perfect choice. Give it a try and experience the simple pleasures of homemade comfort food.
And Try also:
- Vareniki Recipe
- Butternut Squash Soup
- Mennonite Roasted Beef Tails
- Mennonite Butterscotch Pie Recipe
- Our Pinterest.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditionally used, you can substitute with other types of sausage like smoked sausage, Italian sausage, or even chorizo. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Q: Can I use different types of soup?
A: Sure! Feel free to experiment with different types of condensed soup, such as cream of celery, cream of broccoli, or cream of cheddar. This will change the flavor profile of the casserole, but it can be a fun way to customize it to your liking.
Q: I don’t have Ritz crackers. What can I use instead?
A: No problem! You can use breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even just leave the topping off entirely. The casserole will still be delicious.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: No, this recipe is not gluten-free since it contains egg noodles and (optionally) Ritz crackers, You can make gluten-free subbing with gluten-free noodles and using gluten-free breadcrumbs topping. Make sure to use gluten-free kielbasa is well.
Print
Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty Mennonite classic made with smoky kielbasa, creamy soups, tender egg noodles, and a cheesy golden topping.
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 pound egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions, drain thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and onion until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in cooked noodles and sliced kielbasa until evenly coated.
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- (Optional) Mix melted butter with crushed Ritz crackers and sprinkle over cheese.
- Bake 30–35 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly (or topping is golden brown).
- Let cool a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Smoked kielbasa adds extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mennonite
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg