Noodle Kugel
Noodle Kugel is a comforting baked casserole combining tender noodles with sweet and tangy flavors. Rich with sour cream, cottage cheese, and pineapple, it offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, it appeals to those craving classic Jewish comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add oleo to hot noodles and mix.
- Add beaten eggs, sour cream, cottage cheese, drained crushed pineapple, golden raisins (optional), sugar, salt, vanilla, and grated lemon rind to the noodles and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased large 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use wide egg noodles to get the right texture. If you want a richer taste, consider substituting cream cheese for part of the cottage cheese. You can also add nuts or dried fruits for added flavor. If you're looking for vegetarian recipes, this dish is a great option with its creamy texture and sweetness from the pineapple and raisins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a side dish or dessert. Noodle kugel pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own with a dollop of apple sauce. Consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. It also makes a delightful addition to a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover noodle kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodle Kugel contains roughly 360 calories, with 7g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 noodle kugel ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the noodle kugel mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bake it the day you plan to serve it for the best texture. If you want to make it even further in advance, you can freeze it before baking—just thaw and bake when ready.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Cream cheese can be a great substitute for cottage cheese if you're looking for a richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using ricotta cheese instead. Just keep in mind that this might change the texture slightly.
Is noodle kugel gluten-free?
Traditional noodle kugel is not gluten-free due to the use of broad noodles made from wheat. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting gluten-free pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the cottage cheese and sour cream, are also certified gluten-free to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
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).