Googalie
Googalies are hearty, cheesy casserole dishes featuring pasta, sausage, and tomatoes, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
- Cook sausage links and ground sausage until browned.
- Drain the tomatoes and cut them into edible chunks.
- Grate or dice the cheese.
- Layer ingredients into a casserole dish in the following order: pasta, cheese, tomatoes, and ground sausage.
- Repeat layers until the dish is full.
- Top with sausage links and remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Enhance the dish by adding cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers between the layers. If you have leftover cheese from a previous recipe, like the Light Lemon Cheesecake, it can be a great addition here.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty and can serve as a main course. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. If you're looking for a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Corn And Sausage Chowder for a comforting, filling dinner. A light dessert like Coffee-Scotch Dessert would provide a nice contrast to the richness of this casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Googalie contains roughly 833 calories, with 46g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (162% of the Daily Value), and protein (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1407mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Googalie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Googalie a day in advance. Assemble the casserole but don't bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While cooked pasta shells are traditional, you can use other shapes like rotini or penne if shells are unavailable. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well during baking and layering.
Can I freeze Googalie?
Yes, Googalie can be frozen! Assemble the casserole, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).