Pineapple Noodle Kugel
A sweet and savory pineapple noodle kugel combines tender noodles, fresh apples, crushed pineapple, and warm spices, making it a delightful dish for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Parboil noodles in salted water, then rinse and drain.
- Combine eggs and melted butter in a bowl and beat well.
- Mix in the sugar, then add the cottage cheese, sour cream, milk, crushed pineapple with juice, vanilla, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Break up any lumps in the mixture.
- Add the cooked noodles and stir to combine everything evenly.
- Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil spray.
- Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly, then cut into squares and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you're looking for a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use whole wheat noodles. For added texture, try incorporating raisins or chopped nuts. Ensure the noodles are well-drained to prevent a watery kugel, and remember that allowing it to sit for a few minutes after baking helps set the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Pineapple Noodle Kugel is delightful served warm, and it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside savory dishes such as roasted chicken or grilled vegetables. It also makes a great brunch option when served with a fresh fruit salad or alongside French Breakfast Muffins.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, just be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Noodle Kugel contains roughly 557 calories, with 10g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A.
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 use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can substitute broad egg noodles with other types such as whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. Just ensure they are cooked al dente to maintain the right texture in the kugel. The cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly based on the noodle type used.
What can I do if I want to make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the kugel a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake according to the recipe instructions. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is it possible to make this kugel dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version, use vegan substitutes such as almond or coconut yogurt instead of sour cream and replace cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, ensure the butter is replaced with a dairy-free margarine, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy kugel without the dairy.
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).