Imagine the warmth of a cozy kitchen, where the sweet aroma of cinnamon and rich, creamy noodles fills the air. My journey with Noodle Kugel began one chilly evening when the craving for something comforting overtook me. I rummaged through my pantry and unearthed some extra wide egg noodles, a few eggs, and a bounty of cottage cheese just waiting to shine. This delightful dish combines nostalgia and simplicity, transforming ordinary ingredients into a family favorite that resonates with the soul.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to treat yourself, Noodle Kugel is a versatile dish that never disappoints. It melds creamy textures with hints of sweetness from raisins and apricots, topped off with a delightful crunch from almonds. Best of all? It’s easy to make, giving you more time to enjoy moments with loved ones rather than working for hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this culinary delight that has surely won the hearts of many!
Why is Noodle Kugel a Must-Try?
Comforting, this Noodle Kugel warms the heart and soul, reminding you of family gatherings and cherished memories.
Simple preparation means even novice cooks can achieve delicious results without stress.
Versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or dessert, making it perfect for any occasion.
Flavor-packed, with creamy cottage cheese, sweet raisins, and the aromatic touch of cinnamon, every bite is a delight.
Crowd-pleaser! Whether for holidays or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Noodle Kugel Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up this delicious Noodle Kugel that will leave your family asking for seconds!
For the Noodles
• Extra wide egg noodles – the base of our dish, providing warmth and chewiness.
For the Creamy Mixture
• Cottage cheese – adds creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor to the kugel.
• Milk – helps achieve a luscious, rich texture, enhancing the overall creaminess.
• Melted butter – brings richness and depth, making every bite irresistible.
• Sugar – balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness that’s essential in Noodle Kugel.
• Eggs – bind the ingredients together while contributing to a fluffy texture.
• Salt – enhances the flavors, making the dish more savory and balanced.
• Sour cream – adds tang and creaminess, elevating the kugel to the next level.
For the Sweet Add-ins
• Raisins – give a burst of natural sweetness and chewy texture throughout the dish.
• Minced dried apricots – add fruity notes and a delightful chewiness that complements the raisins.
• Cinnamon – brings warmth and aromatic flavor, making this kugel even more comforting.
For the Crunchy Topping
• Sliced almonds – provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Brown sugar – caramelizes on top, adding sweetness and a lovely golden finish when baked.
How to Make Noodle Kugel
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your Noodle Kugel bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown finish—just the way we love it!
-
Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of boiling water. Allow them to boil until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let them cool, keeping their chewy texture intact.
-
Combine all creamy ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix together the cottage cheese, milk, melted butter, sugar, eggs, salt, sour cream, raisins, apricots, and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon until smooth. Then stir in the noodles until everything is well coated.
-
Butter a large baking pan (or two smaller brownie pans if you prefer). Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing it out uniformly. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon, sliced almonds, and brown sugar on top for a delightful crunch.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s ready when the top is set and has turned a lovely golden brown.
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Noodle Kugel
Room Temperature: Store leftover Noodle Kugel at room temperature for up to 2 hours, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
Fridge: Keep uneaten Noodle Kugel in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use an airtight container or tightly wrap it to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze Noodle Kugel for up to 3 months. Slice it into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through.
Expert Tips for Noodle Kugel
• Perfect Texture: Ensure noodles are cooked al dente. Overcooked noodles may become mushy, ruining the delightful texture of your Noodle Kugel.
• Mix Well: Take time to thoroughly combine the creamy ingredients before adding the noodles. This ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.
• Even Toppings: Distribute toppings evenly for consistent crunch and sweetness. This prevents some parts from being overly sugary while others are bland.
• Don’t Rush Baking: Allow the kugel to cool slightly before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve while keeping that golden edge intact.
• Customization: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits or nuts. Just remember that adjusting ingredients can change the Noodle Kugel’s overall flavor profile.
What to Serve with Noodle Kugel?
Creating a complete meal around your Noodle Kugel will elevate your dining experience to new levels of comfort and joy.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers brings a colorful, nutritious balance to the meal while enhancing the kugel’s indulgent richness.
-
Herb Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast that beautifully complements the creamy kugel.
-
Grilled Chicken: Seasoned with herbs and garlic, the tender chicken adds a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the sweet flavors of the kugel.
-
Applesauce: The slight tartness and sweetness of applesauce evoke nostalgia while providing a luscious, smooth side that echoes the sweet notes of the Noodle Kugel.
-
Cranberry Sauce: This tangy, fruity sauce offers a refreshing zing that cuts through the rich creaminess of the dish, making every bite more exciting.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic dessert adds a delightful contrast between temperatures, enhancing the soothing experience of enjoying warm Noodle Kugel.
-
Sweet Wine: A chilled glass of Moscato or Riesling complements the sweet flavors while creating a festive atmosphere for your gathering.
Noodle Kugel Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this classic Noodle Kugel recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cottage cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives, like cashew or almond-based options, for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta alternatives to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without the gluten. Look for wide rice noodles or gluten-free egg noodles for a satisfying bite!
- Fruit Fusion: Swap raisins and apricots with dried cranberries or cherries for a zesty twist that brightens the flavor profile. The sweet-tart notes will elevate the kugel to a new level of deliciousness.
- Nutty Variation: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different crunch, adding a rich and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add an extra layer of cinnamon by creating a cinnamon sugar mixture to swirl through the noodle mixture before baking. This will give your kugel beautiful marbling and added sweetness in each bite.
- Savory Switch: For an unexpected twist, consider adding sautéed spinach and feta cheese for a savory take on Noodle Kugel. The contrast of flavors offers a delightful brunch option!
- Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener that adds a unique flavor depth and richness to the dish. You might just find yourself enjoying the warmth of these alternatives even more!
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper to introduce a subtle warmth that enhances the spiced flavor without overwhelming the dish. A little heat goes a long way!
Make Ahead Options
These Noodle Kugel are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the noodle mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps and storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only keeps the flavors fresh but also prevents the noodles from becoming mushy. On the day you plan to serve, simply pour the mixture into a buttered pan, top with cinnamon, almonds, and brown sugar, and bake it as directed for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll have a flavorful, comforting dish ready to impress your family with minimal last-minute effort!
Noodle Kugel Recipe FAQs
What type of egg noodles should I use for Noodle Kugel?
Absolutely! You’ll want to use extra wide egg noodles for the best texture and flavor in your Noodle Kugel. These noodles provide that hearty, chewy base needed to soak up the luscious creamy mixture while maintaining a delightful bite.
How should I store leftover Noodle Kugel?
Keep your uneaten Noodle Kugel in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying. If you plan to keep it longer, freezing is the way to go!
Can I freeze Noodle Kugel, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Noodle Kugel for up to 3 months! Simply slice it into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing its delightful texture. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my Noodle Kugel comes out too dry?
If you find your Noodle Kugel is dry, it could be due to overbaking or insufficient creaminess in the mixture. Next time, consider adding a little more milk or sour cream, or keep an eye on the baking time to ensure it stays moist. Also, letting it cool slightly before slicing helps it retain moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Noodle Kugel?
Absolutely! Since Noodle Kugel includes dairy products, it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance. You can substitute dairy items with lactose-free alternatives like lactose-free cottage cheese or milk if needed. It’s also a good idea to check for nut allergies since the recipe uses sliced almonds!
Can I adjust the sweetness in my Noodle Kugel?
Very! If you prefer a less sweet kugel, feel free to reduce the sugar. You might also switch out the raisins and apricots for less sweet fruits or skip them altogether. Just remember to taste the mixture before baking to ensure it suits your preference!
Decadent Noodle Kugel Recipe Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and cool.
- Combine all creamy ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix until smooth. Stir in noodles until well coated.
- Butter a large baking pan and pour the noodle mixture into it, smoothing it out. Top with cinnamon, sliced almonds, and brown sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes until the top is set and golden brown.