This Hearty Sausage and Vegetable Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines fresh vegetables, savory sausages, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether for family dinners or casual gatherings. The addition of eggs, sour cream, and cheese creates a creamy, rich texture, while the sausages add a delicious savory depth.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Cuisine
This casserole has a homey, hearty flavor, inspired by traditional comfort food dishes. The combination of sausage, vegetables, and a creamy base makes it a favorite in many households, offering a wholesome meal that can be easily adapted with different vegetables and seasonings.
Full List of Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 150g ketchup
- 2 hunting sausages, sliced
- 1/2 head of cabbage, finely shredded
- 4 eggs
- Paprika, to taste
- Seasoning for vegetables, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 150g sour cream
- 130g flour
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 180g cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prep the Onion and Garlic:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Heat some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once heated, add the chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the onion is translucent and softened.
- Mince the garlic and add it to the pan, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Slice the zucchini into rounds or half-moons.
- Add the zucchini to the pan with the onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini becomes tender.
3. Add Ketchup and Sausages:
- Stir in the ketchup and mix well to combine with the vegetables.
- Slice the hunting sausages and add them to the pan. Continue to cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sausages to heat through and infuse the mixture with flavor.
4. Prepare the Cabbage:
- Finely shred the cabbage and add it to the pan with the other vegetables and sausages. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat the 4 eggs until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and seasoning for vegetables, to taste.
- Add 150g of sour cream and mix well until fully combined.
- Gradually add 130g of flour, mixing until smooth and lump-free.
6. Combine and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Slice the tomato and set it aside.
- In a large baking dish, layer the cooked vegetable and sausage mixture evenly on the bottom.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and sausages, ensuring it’s spread evenly.
- Arrange the tomato slices on top of the casserole.
- Grate the cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is fully set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a light green salad, such as mixed greens with a vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the dish.
- Add Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce and complement the savory casserole.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for an extra serving of vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugars: 8 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This hearty sausage and vegetable casserole combines simple ingredients that are staples in many homes, especially in European and American comfort food traditions. The combination of sausages, vegetables, and a creamy base makes it a filling and flavorful dish. Its ease of preparation and ability to serve a crowd make it a favorite for family meals and gatherings.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Filling and Satisfying: The combination of sausages, vegetables, and eggs creates a hearty and fulfilling meal that can be served on its own.
- Comforting: This casserole is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends.
- Quick and Easy: It’s simple to prepare, with easy-to-find ingredients, and cooks in under an hour.
- Customizable: You can swap out the sausages, vegetables, and seasonings to fit your tastes.
Health Benefits
- Packed with Protein: The sausages and eggs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- High in Fiber: The cabbage and zucchini offer fiber, which aids in digestion and supports heart health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium, supporting immune function and overall health.
Serving Tips
- Adjust the Flavor: If you prefer a spicier casserole, add more paprika or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
- Try Different Sausages: You can experiment with different types of sausages, such as turkey sausage, chorizo, or vegetarian sausages for a healthier option.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use low-fat sour cream and a leaner sausage option, or even substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
Variations to Try
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Different Cheese: Swap the Parmesan cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Add Beans: For more fiber and protein, try adding some white beans, lentils, or chickpeas to the casserole mixture.
Conclusion
This Hearty Sausage and Vegetable Casserole is the perfect dish for any meal. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of sausages, vegetables, and a cheesy, egg-based topping. Whether you’re serving it to family or bringing it to a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready to serve. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer. Chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausages work well in this recipe.
3. Can I make this casserole without the cream?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or a lighter version of cream for a lower-fat alternative.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
5. Can I use frozen vegetables in this casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, such as frozen peas or carrots, in place of fresh vegetables.
6. How can I make the casserole spicier?
Add more paprika, red pepper flakes, or even diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicier kick.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Mozzarella, cheddar, or even Gouda would work well in this casserole.
8. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the sausage and use plant-based sausages or increase the amount of vegetables for a vegetarian version.
9. How long does this casserole last?
This casserole will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
10. Can I bake this casserole in a different size pan?
Yes, you can use a different size baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary depending on the size of the dish.