Description
Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish featuring tender slices of kielbasa sausage combined with egg noodles, creamy mushroom and chicken soups, tangy sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. Topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker and butter mixture, this casserole is perfect for a satisfying family meal served warm.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Noodles
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 pound egg noodles, cooked and drained
Sauce and Mix-ins
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Egg Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package directions until tender. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and chopped onion. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Season Sauce: Add salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor balance of the creamy base.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooked egg noodles and sliced kielbasa sausage into the sauce mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Add Topping (Optional): If using, mix the melted butter with crushed Ritz crackers and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese for a crispy, buttery crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The topping should be golden brown if used.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, flavorful dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute reduced-fat soups and sour cream.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- If you prefer, swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- The Ritz cracker topping is optional but adds a delicious crunchy texture to the casserole.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mennonite, American
Keywords: Mennonite Kielbasa Casserole, Kielbasa casserole, Egg noodle casserole, Comfort food, Creamy sausage casserole, Easy baked casserole
