There’s something deeply comforting about a warm casserole on a chilly day. Whether it’s the heartiness, the creamy texture, or simply the nostalgia that comes with an oven-baked dish, casseroles always seem to hit the spot when you need a little extra warmth. This Polish Noodle Casserole is exactly that kind of dish: simple, satisfying, and absolutely perfect for cold weather.
Made with tender egg noodles folded into a creamy mixture of sour cream, cottage cheese, and seasonings, this casserole is both humble and delicious. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t require a long list of fancy ingredients, yet the end result tastes like something special. The slight tanginess of the sour cream pairs beautifully with the richness of cottage cheese, and the seasonings add just the right amount of depth without overpowering the dish.
This casserole has an old-world charm to it. The recipe reflects traditional Polish cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into deeply comforting meals. Many Eastern European dishes use sour cream and cottage cheese as a base, and noodles are often part of hearty, home-style fare. The result here is a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also endlessly customizable.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a side dish for a family gathering, or a meatless option that still feels satisfying, this casserole fits the bill. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best – Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with kitchen staples you probably already have on hand.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour, including prep and bake time.
- Versatile – Can be served as a side dish or the main course.
- Customizable – Add veggies, sausage, or extra cheese to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
- 1–2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 pound egg noodles, cooked
- Butter, optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the casserole goes in.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, minced onion, salt, dry mustard, and white pepper. Stir until everything is evenly blended. This mixture is the heart of the casserole—it should be smooth, creamy, and well-seasoned.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
Cook your egg noodles according to package instructions, making sure not to overcook them. They should be tender but still have a bit of bite. Drain them and fold them gently into the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Butter a baking dish to prevent sticking and to add a little extra richness. Spread the noodle mixture evenly into the dish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Goodness
Bake for 25 minutes. The top should begin to brown slightly, and the casserole will be bubbling around the edges.
Step 6: Optional Fancy Finish
If you want to elevate the dish, smear the top with a little butter after the initial baking, then return it to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes. You can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before finishing the bake for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Slightly undercook them before baking, since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy – For the best flavor and creaminess, stick with full-fat sour cream and cottage cheese.
- Add Butter for Extra Richness – Smearing a little butter on top before the final bake gives a golden, slightly crisp finish.
- Season to Taste – Taste the creamy mixture before baking. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
- Rest Before Serving – Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking so it firms up slightly.
Variations
- Cheesy Upgrade – Mix in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for a gooier casserole.
- Meaty Addition – Add cooked Polish sausage (kielbasa) or ham for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot paprika for a little heat.
- Herb Infusion – Fresh dill or parsley sprinkled over the top adds a burst of freshness.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make Ahead – Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
- Reheating – Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream for a lighter option, though the flavor will be slightly tangier.
Can I use other noodles?
Absolutely. While egg noodles are traditional, penne, rotini, or even wide pappardelle can work.
Is this casserole a main dish or a side dish?
It can be both! Serve it alongside roasted chicken or pork, or enjoy it on its own with a green salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just bake it in a larger casserole dish and increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Be sure not to overbake it, and consider adding a sprinkle of cheese or a drizzle of cream over the noodles before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Polish Noodle Casserole is the kind of dish that proves you don’t need dozens of ingredients or complicated steps to create something satisfying. With just noodles, sour cream, cottage cheese, and a few seasonings, you can pull together a cozy, family-friendly meal that warms you from the inside out.
It’s the perfect recipe for busy nights, cold-weather dinners, or when you’re craving something nostalgic and comforting. Customize it to your liking with cheese, sausage, or veggies, or keep it simple and classic. Either way, this casserole will become one of those dependable recipes you turn to again and again.
So the next time you’re looking for a dish that’s simple yet soulful, give this casserole a try. You’ll be amazed at how something so easy can taste so good.
Polish Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
- 1 –2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 pound egg noodles cooked
- Butter optional
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the casserole goes in.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, minced onion, salt, dry mustard, and white pepper. Stir until everything is evenly blended. This mixture is the heart of the casserole—it should be smooth, creamy, and well-seasoned.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
- Cook your egg noodles according to package instructions, making sure not to overcook them. They should be tender but still have a bit of bite. Drain them and fold them gently into the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Butter a baking dish to prevent sticking and to add a little extra richness. Spread the noodle mixture evenly into the dish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Goodness
- Bake for 25 minutes. The top should begin to brown slightly, and the casserole will be bubbling around the edges.
Step 6: Optional Fancy Finish
- If you want to elevate the dish, smear the top with a little butter after the initial baking, then return it to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes. You can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before finishing the bake for an extra layer of flavor.
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