Delicious Noodle Kugel That Will Brighten Your Dinner Table

Why Make This Recipe

Noodle kugel is a delicious comfort food that can easily brighten up any dinner table. This traditional Jewish dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy a comforting meal at home. With its rich creamy texture and a delightful hint of cinnamon, each serving will leave you craving more. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

How to Make Delicious Noodle Kugel

Making noodle kugel is a straightforward process that anyone can achieve, even if you’re not an experienced cook. This dish requires just a few basic ingredients, all of which come together to create a rich flavor. Here’s how to make it step-by-step.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz wide egg noodles
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 16 oz sour cream
• 16 oz cottage cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (additional)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (additional)

Directions:

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that once the kugel is prepared, it will bake efficiently.

2. Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the wide egg noodles and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to the boiling water. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain and set them aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream cheese. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend these until smooth and creamy.

4. Add Eggs and Flavoring: Break the 4 large eggs into the cheese mixture. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Combine Noodles and Cheese Mixture: Gently fold the cooked noodles into the cheese mixture until they are uniformly mixed. Take care not to overmix; you want the noodles to retain some structure.

6. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent the kugel from sticking to the bottom and sides.

7. Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the noodle mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula for even baking.

8. Sprinkle Topping: In a small bowl, combine the additional 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the noodle kugel.

9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the hot oven and bake for around 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until golden brown and the top is slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the kugel from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow it to set nicely.

How to Serve Delicious Noodle Kugel

Noodle kugel can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Cut it into squares or wedges and serve it as a side dish or a main course. It’s great on its own, but you can also add a dollop of apple sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, briskets, or even as part of a festive brunch spread.

How to Store Delicious Noodle Kugel

If you have leftovers or want to prepare it ahead of time, storing noodle kugel is easy. Once it has cooled down, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven until it’s warmed through.

Tips to Make Delicious Noodle Kugel

1. Choose the Right Noodles: While wide egg noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types of pasta. Just ensure that they are similar in size and texture to maintain the integrity of the dish.

2. Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: A well-mixed cheese and egg mixture is crucial for the best texture. Ensure there are no lumps from the cream cheese; use a mixer if you need to.

3. Don’t Overcook Noodles: Since the noodles will bake further in the oven, be sure to cook them only until they are al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy.

4. Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the flavor by adding raisins, chopped apples, or nuts into the mixture. These additions can add texture and a unique twist to your kugel.

5. Serve with Toppings: Experiment with serving your kugel with different toppings. A drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or fresh fruit can turn it into a delightful dessert.

Variation

One variation of noodle kugel is a savory version, which includes the addition of sautéed onions, mushrooms, and even spinach. This can turn your sweet kugel into a delicious side dish that compliments your main course perfectly. You can adjust the sugar and cinnamon to a minimal amount or eliminate them altogether to make it more savory.

Another popular variation is to use sweet potatoes or butternut squash instead of the traditional noodle base. This version is a great way to sneak in some additional nutrients while providing a different taste and color.

FAQs

1. Can noodle kugel be frozen?

Yes, noodle kugel can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

2. Is noodle kugel a dessert?

Noodle kugel can be served as both a side dish or a dessert. It really depends on how you prepare it. If you add more sugar and spices, it leans toward being a dessert. Conversely, if you keep it less sweet and savory, it can complement main dishes.

3. How do I know when my noodle kugel is done baking?

Your noodle kugel is done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it jiggles too much in the middle, it may need additional baking time.

4. Can I substitute low-fat ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free versions of sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter dish. Just keep in mind that this may slightly affect the creaminess and flavor.

5. What should I serve with noodle kugel?

Noodle kugel pairs well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, brisket, or a hearty vegetable stew. It can even be a delightful brunch option alongside fresh fruit or a simple salad.

By following this recipe and instructions, you will create a delicious noodle kugel that family and friends will love. Enjoy the process and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! Bon appétit!

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