Gizzards and Noodles: Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

Gizzards and noodles, a classic comfort food that embodies simplicity and heartfelt nourishment, have long been cherished in many households across generations. This dish, with roots deeply embedded in traditional cooking, offers a hearty and satisfying experience that transcends mere sustenance—it evokes memories of family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and the warmth of home cooking. While the ingredients are humble in nature, their combination results in a rich, flavorful, and deeply comforting meal that can be prepared with minimal fuss yet delivers maximum satisfaction. The Love With Recipes platform celebrates recipes like these because they remind us that good food doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a nostalgic dish to share with loved ones, Gizzards and Noodles stands as a testament to the beauty of simplicity and tradition.

Time

Preparation Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

3 hours

Total Time

3 hours and 15 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or stockpot
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Colander or strainer
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Ladle
• Stove or cooktop
• Optional: pressure cooker (for faster cooking)

Tags

Comfort Food, Traditional, Hearty, Budget-Friendly, Family Favorite, One Dish Meal, Slow Cooked

Serving Size

Approximately 1 cup per serving, making a total of 6 servings from this recipe.

Difficulty Level

Easy to Moderate — requires basic cooking skills such as simmering and boiling, suitable for cooks of all experience levels.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Poultry (chicken gizzards), dairy (butter, margarine)
• Potential cross-contact: depending on processing, check labels of margarine and butter

Dietary Preference

Contains animal products; suitable for omnivores. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Course

Main Course, Comfort Food

Cuisine

Southern American, Traditional Home Cooking

Ingredients

Instructions

Preparation of Gizzards

Begin by carefully rinsing the chicken gizzards under cold, running water. This step is crucial to remove any residual blood, grit, or impurities that might be present. Use your fingers or a soft brush to scrub the surface gently but thoroughly. Cutting the gizzards in half lengthwise allows for more even cooking and tenderness. To do this, place each gizzard on a clean cutting board, and with a sharp knife, slice through the thickest part to create two halves. This process not only facilitates faster cooking but also ensures a more pleasant texture and better flavor absorption during simmering.

Simmering the Gizzards

Fill a large, heavy-bottomed stockpot with enough water to fully submerge the gizzards—about 4 to 6 cups. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the water, which enhances flavor and helps tenderize the meat during the long cooking process. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat; it’s important not to let the water reach a rolling boil, as vigorous boiling can make the gizzards tough and rubbery. Once simmering, carefully add the prepared gizzards, reducing the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, slightly ajar for steam escape, and cook for approximately 3 hours. During this slow simmer, the gizzards will become tender and flavorful. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface periodically to keep the broth clear and clean.

Preparing the Noodles

While the gizzards are simmering, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions—typically 8 to 10 minutes—until al dente, where they are tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse briefly with hot water to stop the cooking process. Set aside and keep warm. You can toss the noodles with a small amount of oil if you plan to serve later, to prevent sticking.

Combining and Finishing the Dish

Once the gizzards are tender, use tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the broth. Drain excess liquid from the gizzards—do not discard the broth, as it’s packed with flavor and can be used as a base for gravy or soup if desired. Return the gizzards to the pot or a separate large mixing bowl. Add the cooked noodles to the gizzards, and then incorporate the butter and margarine. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the fats melt and coat all the ingredients evenly. This step enhances richness and ensures every bite is flavorful.

Season the mixture with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go. Serve the Gizzards and Noodles hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, such as chopped parsley or green onions, to add a touch of freshness and color. This dish is best enjoyed immediately but can be kept warm for up to an hour before serving.

Preparation Tips

• Cleaning Gizzards: Proper cleaning is critical for a tender, flavorful dish. Remove any excess fat or connective tissue and rinse thoroughly to eliminate any residual grit or blood.
• Simmering Duration: Slow cooking for at least 2.5 to 3 hours ensures the gizzards are tender. Do not rush this process, as it affects texture and flavor.
• Broth Flavor Enhancement: For more depth, consider simmering the gizzards in chicken broth instead of water. Adding herbs like bay leaves, thyme, or garlic cloves during simmering can further elevate the flavor.
• Cooking Noodles: Do not overcook the noodles; they should be al dente to prevent mushiness when combined with the gizzards.
• Serving Serving: Serve Gizzards and Noodles immediately for optimal flavor and texture, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Gizzards: Fresh, high-quality gizzards will yield the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cleaning and cooking.
• Flavor Variations: Incorporate smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder into the cooking water to add layers of flavor.
• Making Broth: Save the simmering liquid after cooking the gizzards. Strain and use as a rich base for soups or gravies.
• Adding Vegetables: For added nutrition, incorporate diced carrots, celery, or onions during the initial simmering process.
• Alternative Pasta: Substitute noodles with rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta for a different twist.

Add-ons

• Chopped green onions or fresh parsley for garnish
• Hot sauce or vinegar to add tanginess
• Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Shredded cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan for added richness

Side Dishes

• Cornbread or homemade biscuits
• Steamed greens like collard or kale
• Pickled vegetables or relish
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

Improvements

• Integrate a slow cooker or pressure cooker to reduce cooking time without sacrificing tenderness.
• Add a splash of white wine or vinegar during simmering for acidity and depth.
• Use homemade broth for a richer flavor profile.
• Experiment with seasoning blends such as Cajun or Creole spices for regional variations.

Save and Store

Allow the Gizzards and Noodles to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure safety and optimal flavor.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of gizzards?

This recipe specifically celebrates the unique texture and flavor of gizzards. While you can substitute with chicken meat, the dish will alter significantly in flavor and authenticity. Gizzards provide a chewy, savory bite that is central to this traditional recipe.

How do I know when the gizzards are tender enough?

Gizzards are tender when they are no longer tough or rubbery and can be easily pierced with a fork or knife. The long simmering process ensures breakdown of connective tissues, resulting in a soft, flavorful meat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Traditional gizzards are essential to the authentic flavor. However, for a vegetarian version, substitute plant-based proteins like seitan or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

Is there a way to quicken the cooking process?

Yes, using a pressure cooker or instant pot can significantly reduce the cooking time. Typically, pressure cooking gizzards takes about 45-60 minutes under high pressure. Always follow your appliance’s instructions for best results.

Conclusion

Gizzards and Noodles embody the essence of comfort food—a simple, hearty dish that nourishes both body and soul. Its rich history and traditional preparation methods highlight the importance of patience and respect for humble ingredients. At Love With Recipes, we believe that dishes like this are more than just meals; they are expressions of culture, family, and memory. Whether you are revisiting a childhood favorite or discovering it anew, this recipe offers a warm, satisfying experience that can be treasured and shared across generations. Embrace the process, experiment with flavors, and savor each bite of this timeless classic that continues to bring people together around the table.