Amazing Jewish Noodle Kugel

Introduction

Jewish Noodle Kugel is a quintessential dish in Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine, blending the comforting texture of noodles with the sweet flavors of cream, sugar, and spices. It is a versatile casserole-style dish served during Jewish holidays such as Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, or Shabbat meals. This guide provides a comprehensive recipe and explores every detail you need to prepare the perfect Kugel, from ingredients and tips to variations and storage.

Time

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Needed Equipment

Large pot for boiling noodles
Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Whisk
Spatula or wooden spoon
Greased rectangular baking dish (9×13 inches)
Measuring cups and spoons
Preheated oven at 350°F (175°C)

Serving Size

Serves: 8–10 people

Difficulty Level

Skill Level: Easy

Allergen Information

Contains: Dairy, Eggs, Gluten (wheat-based noodles)
Potential Modifications: Use dairy-free and gluten-free substitutes for dietary restrictions.

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian
Can be adapted for kosher or dairy-free diets.

Course

Side Dish or Dessert

Cuisine

Ashkenazi Jewish

Ingredients (in Tables)

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Egg noodles (wide)	12 oz	Cooked al dente
Eggs	4 large	Beaten
Sour cream	1 cup	Full-fat or light
Cottage cheese	1 cup	Small curd preferred
Cream cheese	4 oz	Softened
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup	Adjust to taste
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Enhances sweetness
Cinnamon	1 tsp	Optional, for spiced flavor
Nutmeg	1/2 tsp	Optional, for added depth
Raisins	1/2 cup	Soaked in warm water
Butter	2 tbsp	Melted
Cornflake crumbs	1 cup	For topping
Brown sugar	2 tbsp	For topping
Optional fruits (e.g., apple, pineapple)	1/2 cup diced	For added flavor

Instructions

Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients:
Fold the cooked noodles into the filling mixture until fully coated. Stir in raisins and any optional fruits.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix cornflake crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
Assemble the Kugel:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crumbly topping over the top.
Bake:
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the Kugel to cool for 15 minutes before slicing into portions. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Preparation Tips

Noodle Type: Use wide egg noodles for an authentic texture, but gluten-free pasta works as a substitute.
Filling Consistency: Blend cottage cheese and cream cheese for an extra-smooth texture.
Raisin Prep: Soak raisins in warm water or juice to plump them up.
Topping Variations: Use crushed graham crackers or breadcrumbs for an alternative topping.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Nutrient	Value
Calories	320-380 kcal
Total Fat	12-16 g
Saturated Fat	6-8 g
Cholesterol	80-110 mg
Sodium	200-250 mg
Carbohydrates	45-50 g
Dietary Fiber	1-2 g
Sugars	20-25 g
Protein	8-10 g

Tips and Tricks

Experiment with low-fat dairy products for a lighter version.
Add a dash of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Prepare the Kugel a day ahead and reheat before serving; the flavors will meld beautifully.

Add-ons

Nuts: Sprinkle slivered almonds or chopped pecans for added crunch.
Savory Twist: Reduce sugar and add sautéed onions for a savory version.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside roasted chicken or brisket for a complete holiday meal.

Improvements

Use whole-grain noodles for added fiber.
Substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.

Save and Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I make Kugel ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake before serving.
Can Kugel be frozen?
Yes, freeze baked Kugel for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warm.
Is Kugel always sweet?
No, savory versions exist, often made with onions and herbs.

Conclusion

Jewish Noodle Kugel is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of tradition and flavor. Whether you prepare it for a holiday meal or a special dessert, this sweet casserole is bound to impress. Experiment with the recipe to make it uniquely yours, and enjoy the comforting taste of this timeless favorite.

References

Gil Marks, The Encyclopedia of Jewish Food, Wiley, 2010.
Joan Nathan, Jewish Holiday Cookbook, Schocken Books, 2004.