Noodle Kugel Recipe: A Delicious Sweet and Savory Jewish Classic
If you’ve ever been to a Jewish holiday dinner or a family gathering, you’ve likely encountered noodle kugel—a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that’s a staple in Jewish cuisine. This versatile dish combines egg noodles with a sweet or savory custard base and is often baked to golden perfection.
Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or as a dessert, noodle kugel is an incredibly easy and adaptable recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. In this article, we’ll walk you through a classic noodle kugel recipe, perfect for any occasion, from holiday meals to a simple family dinner.
Ingredients for Noodle Kugel Recipe
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to prepare this classic noodle kugel:
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Egg noodles | 12 oz (1 package) | You can use wide or regular egg noodles. |
Cottage cheese | 1 1/2 cups | Use full-fat for a creamy texture. |
Sour cream | 1 cup | Adds richness and flavor. |
Sugar | 1/2 cup | Sweetens the dish, giving it a nice balance. |
Eggs | 4 large | The binder for the custard. |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds sweetness and aroma. |
Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | For that warm, comforting spice. |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances the sweetness. |
Melted butter | 1/4 cup | Adds richness and flavor. |
Raisins (optional) | 1/2 cup | Optional, but they add a lovely sweetness and texture. |
Cornflakes or breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | Optional topping for a crunchy finish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Noodle Kugel Recipe
1. Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes, until the noodles are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
3. Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, sour cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. This creates a smooth custard base for your kugel.
4. Combine the Noodles and Custard
- Add the cooked and drained egg noodles to the custard mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the noodles are evenly coated with the custard mixture.
5. Add Raisins (Optional)
- If you're using raisins, fold them into the noodle and custard mixture for added sweetness and texture. You can also use other dried fruits like cranberries or currants, depending on your preference.
6. Transfer to the Baking Dish
- Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
7. Top with Cornflakes (Optional)
- If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle cornflakes or breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the noodle kugel. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
8. Bake the Noodle Kugel
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the kugel is golden brown and the custard is set. You can test this by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
9. Cool and Serve
- Let the noodle kugel cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help it firm up and make it easier to serve. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Noodle Kugel Recipe
Comforting and Versatile
- Noodle kugel is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and filling, making it the perfect side dish for holiday meals or a hearty addition to any dinner table. Plus, you can switch up the sweetness and add-ins to suit your personal taste.
Perfect for Holiday Feasts
- This noodle kugel recipe is a fantastic dish to serve for Jewish holidays like Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and Hanukkah, as well as for other family celebrations. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it a crowd favorite.
Customizable
- The beauty of noodle kugel is in its flexibility. You can adjust the sweetness level, add different dried fruits, or even make it savory by omitting the sugar and cinnamon and adding things like sautéed onions and garlic.
Easy to Make
- Noodle kugel doesn’t require complicated techniques. It’s a simple mix-and-bake recipe that’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a stress-free, delicious dish.
Tips and Variations for Noodle Kugel
Savory Noodle Kugel:
If you prefer a savory version, skip the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Instead, sauté onions, garlic, and herbs like thyme or dill and fold them into the custard mixture.Use Different Pasta:
While egg noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as wide pasta shells or bowtie pasta, for a unique twist on this classic dish.Make-Ahead Option:
You can prepare the noodle kugel ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. This is perfect for holiday gatherings when you need to prepare food in advance.Dairy-Free Option:
For a dairy-free version, you can use non-dairy substitutes like vegan sour cream, vegan cottage cheese, and a plant-based butter option. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the taste, but it will still be delicious.
Conclusion
This noodle kugel recipe is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and comforting flavors. Whether you're serving it as a side dish, dessert, or for a holiday celebration, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-try for any home cook looking to add a special touch to their meal.
Try this noodle kugel recipe today and enjoy a taste of tradition, comfort, and warmth in every bite!
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