Looking for a comforting dish that perfectly combines flavors and textures? This spinach kugel is a delightful choice. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together at the table. With layers of spinach and a hint of onion, this kugel has a wonderful savory taste that pairs perfectly with any meal.
This kugel is versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a main course. Feel free to add in your favorite cheeses for a richer flavor or spices to give it a little kick. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just cooking for yourself, this spinach kugel will surely impress.
Overview of Spinach Kugel
Spinach kugel stands out as a wonderful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. This classic recipe features layers of tender spinach enveloped in delicate egg noodles, creating a satisfying meal that appeals to people of all ages.
With its inviting golden-brown top and crispy texture, this kugel not only excites the taste buds but also adds a touch of warmth to any gathering. Whether served as a hearty side or a main dish, it’s hard to resist the charm of this baked delight.
Ingredients to Gather
Preparing spinach kugel requires a few essential ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend. Fresh spinach, whether chopped or thawed from frozen, is the star component, providing both nutrition and flavor.
Complementing the greens are egg noodles, eggs, and a combination of cottage cheese and sour cream, which contribute to the dish’s creamy texture. Onions, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese add depth to the flavor profile, making each bite utterly enjoyable.
Preparation Steps
The journey to a perfect spinach kugel begins with the preparation of ingredients. Start by preheating the oven to create an ideal baking environment.
Onions are sautéed until soft and fragrant, then combined with the cooked spinach. This mixture joins forces with egg noodles and the creamy elements, resulting in a rich filling that’s both comforting and hearty.
Baking to Perfection
Once the mixture is assembled, it’s poured into a greased baking dish, ensuring an even spread for optimal cooking. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top contributes a delightful crispiness as the kugel bakes.
After about 45-50 minutes in the oven, the kugel emerges golden brown and fragrant, ready to be sliced and served. Allowing it to cool for a few minutes enhances the texture, making it easier to cut into perfect squares.
Serving Suggestions
Spinach kugel can shine in various settings, from family dinners to festive gatherings. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation that adds a pop of color.
Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, this kugel promises to impress everyone at the table, evoking feelings of comfort and nostalgia with every bite.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers of spinach kugel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Reheating is straightforward; simply warm slices in the oven or microwave until heated through.
This dish maintains its deliciousness over time, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, spinach kugel ensures that every meal feels special, no matter the occasion.
A Classic Spinach Kugel Recipe
This spinach kugel features a blend of tender spinach, eggs, and noodles baked to perfection. It’s rich, hearty, and has a pleasantly soft texture with a crispy top layer that adds an enjoyable contrast.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach, chopped (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 4 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the Onions: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using frozen, make sure it is well-drained and warmed through.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, sautéed onions, cooked egg noodles, eggs, cottage cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the kugel is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the kugel to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g