Cheddar Cheese Keigel
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining tender egg noodles with rich cheddar, cottage, and cream cheeses, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Mix cooked and drained egg noodles, 3/4 cup of Cheddar cheese, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Place the cream cheese, cottage cheese, and eggs in a blender or food processor fitted with a steel blade.
- Cover and blend until smooth.
- Add the blended cheese mixture to the noodle mixture; mix lightly.
- Spoon into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining Cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the noodle mixture. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a sharp white cheese for a bolder taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream to the cheese mixture before blending. This dish is versatile; feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli to make it more nutritious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheddar Cheese Keigel warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs well with a light salad, such as a Bleu And Cottage Cheese Salad Dressing, to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be mindful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Cheese Keigel contains roughly 384 calories, with 11g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheddar Cheese Keigel a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, which is widely available. Be sure to check the packaging for cooking times, as they may differ from traditional egg noodles. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham for a heartier dish. If you're adding meat, consider reducing the cheese slightly to balance flavors. Ensure the meat is fully cooked before mixing it into the noodle mixture.
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).