When the crispness of fall begins to fill the air, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to bring the family together. Picture this: a bubbling dish fresh from the oven, with cheesy goodness melting over layers of tender noodles and savory ground meat. That’s the magic of the Strasbourg Casserole, a delightful nod to traditional comfort food that effortlessly pleases even the pickiest palates.
I stumbled upon this enchanting recipe one chilly evening while searching for a dish to both feed my family and keep hunger at bay. With its versatility, you can easily swap in seasonal vegetables or use turkey for a lighter touch, making it a great fit for any kitchen. Best of all, it’s a breeze to prepare, letting you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the cozy moments around the table. Join me in discovering how to create this comforting casserole that’s destined to become a family favorite!
Why is Strasbourg casserole so appealing?
Comforting: This dish is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly nights.
Versatile: Use your favorite pasta or swap out protein to customize it to your liking.
Family-Friendly: Its rich flavors and cheesy goodness make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Quick & Simple: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s an easy fix for weeknight dinners.
Hearty & Filling: The combination of noodles and meat ensures everyone walks away satisfied.
Delicious Leftovers: Enjoy the flavors even more the next day, making meal prep a breeze!
Strasbourg Casserole Ingredients
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For the Pasta Base
• Bandnudeln (or pasta of choice) – Provides the base and structure of the dish; substitute with other pasta types like penne or fusilli for variety. -
For the Filling
• Zwiebel (onion) – Adds depth and sweetness to the filling; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Öl (oil) – Used for sautéing onion and meat; any neutral oil works well to get the job done.
• Hackfleisch, gemischtes (ground meat) – Provides protein and richness; consider using turkey or a plant-based mince for a lighter option.
• Rotwein (red wine) – Enhances flavor by deglazing the pan; omit for a non-alcoholic version and use broth instead.
• Tomatenmark (tomato paste) – Concentrates tomato flavor; you can substitute with tomato sauce but reduce liquid slightly.
• Thymian (thyme) – Brings a fragrant herbal note; dried thyme can replace fresh in a pinch.
• Cayennepfeffer (cayenne pepper) – Adds a touch of heat to the filling; adjust to taste or omit for a milder dish.
• Salz (salt) – Essential for enhancing overall flavors; use sea salt or kosher salt based on preference. -
For Baking
• Fett für die Form (grease for the dish) – Prevents sticking during baking; butter or cooking spray works wonderfully.
• Käse, geriebener (grated cheese) – Provides a golden, melty topping; choose a cheese like Emmental or mozzarella for the best results.
• Sahne (cream) – Enriches the dish with creaminess; substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for a lighter option.
This delightful Strasbourg casserole will not only satisfy your cravings but also bring warmth and joy to your dinner table!
How to Make Strasbourg Casserole
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Cook noodles: Boil salted water in a large pot, and add your bandnudeln or pasta of choice. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
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Sauté onions: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will enhance the dish’s flavor.
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Brown the meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
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Deglaze the pan: Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. This adds depth to your filling, lifting all the delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
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Mix filling ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, cayenne pepper, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined, letting it cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Combine pasta and meat: Add your cooked noodles to the meat mixture in the skillet. Mix everything well to ensure each noodle is coated with the savory filling.
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Prepare the baking dish: Transfer the noodle and meat mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Add cream and cheese: Pour cream over the entire dish and sprinkle the grated cheese evenly to create that irresistible, melty topping.
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Bake it: Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
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Serve and enjoy: Take the casserole out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes, and then serve hot, savoring the delightful aroma!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Strasbourg Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the casserole’s delightful texture.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 175 °C (350 °F) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Room Temperature: Let the Strasbourg casserole cool completely before storing. Leaving it out for more than 2 hours is not advisable to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Strasbourg casserole preparations are ideal for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the noodle and meat mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the noodles and the filling as instructed, then combine and transfer them to your greased baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. The key to maintaining quality is to take the casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking; this helps the casserole cook evenly. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the cream and sprinkle the cheese on top, then bake as directed for a delicious and comforting family meal!
Tips for the Best Strasbourg Casserole
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Don’t Overcook Noodles: Ensure your noodles are al dente; they’ll absorb moisture during baking and remain firm rather than mushy.
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Thorough Mixing: Mix the meat and pasta well to ensure every bite is packed with flavor from the savory filling, enhancing your Strasbourg casserole.
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Broil for Crispiness: If you prefer a golden, crispy topping, switch to broil for the last few minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it!
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Ingredient Substitutions: Experiment with different meats or vegetables to customize your dish based on dietary preferences without losing that comforting flair.
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Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to stand for a few minutes after baking. This helps settle the layers and makes serving smoother.
What to Serve with Strasbourg Casserole?
When you’re cozying up with a comforting casserole, the right sides can elevate this already delightful meal to new heights.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, crusty bread adds a satisfying texture to every bite. Pair with a pat of herb butter for a gourmet touch.
- Green Salad: A light, mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and balance, cutting through the richness of the casserole beautifully.
- Steamed Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like green beans or broccoli add nutrition and a delightful crunch alongside the warm, cheesy dish.
- Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery delight complements the flavors and adds a delightful crispy bite, matching the cozy vibe of the casserole.
- Roasted Potatoes: Herbed roasted potatoes offer a delightful contrast with their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, enhancing the meal’s heartiness.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a sweet and tangy element that brightens the palate, making the meal feel complete.
- Mulled Wine: For a cozy drink option, a glass of warm mulled wine ties in the fall flavors, making your dinner feel even more festive.
- Apple Crisp: As a sweet finish, a warm apple crisp can satisfy your dessert cravings while harmonizing with the comforting flavors of the main dish.
Strasbourg Casserole Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this comforting dish uniquely yours!
- Seasonal Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritious twist. These colorful veggies enhance both flavor and health benefits.
- Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy gouda for a flavor explosion. The cheesy goodness will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Turkey Twist: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter yet delicious option, perfect for a healthier family meal.
- Lentil Delight: For a vegetarian version, swap ground meat with cooked lentils seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices, adding that hearty texture.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate additional seasonings like smoked paprika or Italian herbs for a flavor boost that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Pasta Variety: Try different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, to switch up the texture and appearance of your casserole. Each choice brings its own charm!
- Non-Dairy Option: Substitute cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream for an equally creamy texture that accommodates dietary preferences.
- Crunchy Topping: Add breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and parmesan cheese on top before baking for a delightful crunchy contrast to the creamy layers.
Let these variations inspire you to craft your ideal Strasbourg Casserole and enjoy every delicious bite!
Strasbourg Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for the Strasbourg casserole?
Absolutely! While bandnudeln are traditionally used, you can substitute with other pasta types like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to cook them until they are al dente, as they’ll soften more during baking.
How should I store leftovers of the Strasbourg casserole?
For the fridge, store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven at 175 °C (350 °F) helps maintain that lovely texture we all love. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze the Strasbourg casserole?
Yes, definitely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then portion it out. Use airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven to preserve the creamy texture and flavors.
What if my casserole is drying out when reheating?
If you find your casserole drying out, cover it with aluminum foil while reheating. This will help trap moisture inside, keeping the dish nice and creamy. Heat at 175 °C (350 °F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until fully warmed.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary preferences?
Very much so! The Strasbourg casserole is versatile — you can opt for ground turkey or plant-based mince to lighten it up. Adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or mushrooms is a fantastic way to boost nutrition without compromising on flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly for any added veggies.
Is this casserole suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Absolutely! The familiar flavors and cheesy goodness make it a hit with kids. However, if there are allergies to consider (like gluten or dairy), you can easily substitute gluten-free pasta and use a dairy-free cream and cheese to ensure everyone can enjoy this dish.
Delicious Strasbourg Casserole: Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil salted water in a large pot, and add your bandnudeln or pasta of choice. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked noodles to the meat mixture in the skillet. Mix well.
- Transfer the noodle and meat mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Pour cream over the entire dish and sprinkle the grated cheese evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then serve hot.