Prepare to experience a taste of tradition with our Classic Kugel recipe! Kugel, a beloved Jewish dish, is a comforting and indulgent casserole featuring tender egg noodles enveloped in a rich and creamy custard-like filling. Topped with a crunchy graham cracker crust, this dish is the epitome of comfort food bliss. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving a taste of home, this Kugel recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. So let’s dive into the world of culinary tradition and learn how to make this timeless dish from scratch!
Ingredients:
Refrigerated:
- 6 Eggs
Pasta & Grains:
- 1 (8 ounce) package Egg noodles, large
Baking & Spices:
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup White sugar
Snacks:
- 1/3 cup Graham cracker crumbs
Dairy:
- 10 tbsp Butter
- 1 (16 ounce) package Cottage cheese
- 3/4 (8 ounce) package Cream cheese
- 4 tbsp Sour cream
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream to the egg mixture, and beat until smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the cheese mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer the noodle mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix it with the graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
- Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture evenly over the top of the noodle mixture in the baking dish, forming a crunchy crust.
- Bake the Kugel in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Once baked, remove the Kugel from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a sweeter Kugel, you can increase the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences.
- Experiment with different types of noodles such as wide egg noodles or even bowtie pasta for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Add raisins or chopped nuts to the noodle mixture for added texture and flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this Kugel ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Kugel ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Kugel?
A: Yes, leftover Kugel can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Is Kugel served hot or cold?
A: Kugel can be served either hot or cold, depending on personal preference. Some people enjoy it warm from the oven, while others prefer it chilled as a refreshing dessert or snack.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of the white sugar.
- Replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed almonds or pecans for a crunchy topping.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use a low-carb pasta alternative such as spaghetti squash or konjac noodles instead of egg noodles.
- Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar-free sweetener to lower the carb content of the dish.
- Replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb crust.
In conclusion, Classic Kugel is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. With its creamy texture, delicate noodles, and crunchy graham cracker crust, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether enjoyed as a side dish at a holiday feast or as a satisfying dessert on a cozy evening, Kugel is sure to leave a lasting impression with its irresistible flavors and comforting aroma. So gather your ingredients, prepare this beloved dish with love, and savor every delicious bite of Classic Kugel!
