Sunday Supper Casserole
A hearty casserole combining sausage, noodles, and applesauce with cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners and comforting Sunday suppers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain. Place sausages in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake sausages for 25 minutes, turning once.
- Lower oven temperature to 350°F.
- Combine sausage drippings and cooked noodles. Arrange half of the noodles in a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Top the noodles with applesauce, lemon juice, and nutmeg mixture.
- Cover with the remaining noodles and top with cooked sausage links.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting turkey sausage for a lighter option. You can also replace the applesauce with pumpkin puree for a seasonal variation. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese with the applesauce mixture. Make sure to cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to be a main dish on its own, but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread for a comforting Sunday supper experience. For more delicious ideas, explore other American recipes that highlight pork.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunday Supper Casserole contains roughly 623 calories, with 5g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% 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 this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking.
What can I use instead of pork sausage?
You can easily substitute chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, consider using meatless sausage or a combination of sautéed mushrooms and lentils to maintain the hearty texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).