Cathy'S Noodle Kugel
A comforting baked noodle kugel with sweet pineapple, apple, cinnamon, and raisins, perfect as a holiday side dish for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the noodles until tender, then drain.
- In a large bowl, add the cooked noodles, crushed pineapple, grated apple, cottage cheese, melted butter, beaten eggs, lemon juice, white raisins, sugar, cinnamon, sour cream, and salt.
- Stir all ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased, shallow, heavy casserole or baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 to 60 minutes, until cooked and golden on top.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using egg noodles instead of broad noodles. You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you prefer a sweeter kugel, increase the sugar slightly or add more raisins. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the spice profile, complementing the cinnamon beautifully. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to mix in nuts or other fruits as desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a comforting side dish or a sweet breakfast option. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert, making it reminiscent of a comforting treat like Grampa Dawson'S Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding. Add a fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover noodle kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake covered at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Be sure to check for doneness to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cathy'S Noodle Kugel contains roughly 297 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% 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 noodle kugel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodle kugel a day in advance. Just assemble the mixture, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Absolutely! Substitute traditional noodles with gluten-free egg noodles or a similar pasta made from rice or quinoa. Just be sure to check the packaging for cooking times, as gluten-free noodles may vary.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize this noodle kugel by adding different fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped peaches. For a nutty flavor, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans. Additionally, consider swapping out the cottage cheese for ricotta for a creamier texture.
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).