German Noodle Bake
This is a recipe I serve each year for my holiday open house because everyone looks for it. Store-bought noodles can be substituted, but I prefer homemade noodles...and so does everyone else.
This is a recipe I serve each year for my holiday open house because everyone looks for it. Store-bought noodles can be substituted, but I prefer homemade noodles...and so does everyone else.
- Carbohydrate 15.7632451918238 g
- Cholesterol 249.020233131905 mg
- Fat 17.3637219030226 g
- Fiber 0.552272407255086 g
- Protein 15.8250928229427 g
- Saturated Fat 9.35411197357026 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (339g)
- Sodium 400.248907538591 mg
- Sugar 15.2109727845687 g
- Trans Fat 1.69988429563894 g
- Calories 283 calories
Step-by-step
- In a small bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in center; add eggs. Stir together, forming a dough.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead 5-6 minutes. Divide dough in half. Roll each portion into a 12x9-in. rectangle. Dust both sides of dough with flour; roll up, jelly-roll style. Cut into 1/4-in. slices. Unroll noodles on paper towels; let dry for up to 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350degrees. In a Dutch oven, bring water to a rapid boil. Add noodles; cook 7-9 minutes or until tender.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour, salt and paprika until smooth; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in cheese until melted. Stir in eggs.
- Drain noodles; transfer to a greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Top with cheese sauce. Cover and bake 20 minutes. Uncover; bake 10-15 minutes longer or until bubbly.
My Beloved German Noodle Bake: A Holiday Staple
For years, my holiday open house has been synonymous with one dish: my German Noodle Bake. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a warm hug in a baking dish, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The aroma alone fills my home with the comforting scent of baked cheese, creamy sauce, and tender noodles, setting the perfect festive mood. Honestly, I’ve had people ask for the recipe months in advance, eagerly anticipating its return each year. I’ve always felt a deep sense of satisfaction watching my guests enjoy it, their faces alight with delight as they take that first bite.
The recipe itself is a beautiful blend of simple ingredients, creating something far greater than the sum of its parts. While store-bought noodles will certainly do in a pinch, nothing compares to the taste and texture of homemade noodles. The subtle difference is profound; it's that extra touch of homemade love that truly elevates this dish. The process of making the noodles is meditative, a quiet ritual I often enjoy on the days leading up to my open house. The kneading, the rolling, the cutting – it’s almost as therapeutic as the baking itself. And believe me, the compliments I receive are always worth the extra effort.
The heart of this recipe lies in the creamy cheese sauce. I’ve experimented with different cheeses over the years, but I’ve found that Swiss cheese provides the perfect balance of sharpness and richness. It melts beautifully, creating a luxuriously smooth and flavorful sauce that coats each strand of noodle perfectly. The addition of a touch of paprika adds a hint of warmth and complexity that perfectly complements the other flavors. This dish has been requested time and time again.
The beauty of this German Noodle Bake is its versatility. It's easily adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences. For instance, I've experimented with gluten-free flour blends for those with dietary restrictions. The result was still delightful, proving that this recipe can be enjoyed by everyone. It's incredibly comforting, the kind of food that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, particularly during the chilly holiday season.
Beyond its deliciousness, the German Noodle Bake represents something more profound to me. It’s a testament to the power of simple recipes and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. It’s a dish that brings people together, fostering connections and creating lasting memories. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of togetherness and celebration. Every year, as I prepare this bake, I’m reminded of the importance of tradition, family, and the simple pleasures in life.
So, if you’re looking for a dish that will impress your guests and become a cherished part of your holiday tradition, look no further. This German Noodle Bake is a guaranteed hit, a testament to the power of simple ingredients and the magic of shared meals. It’s a dish that speaks to the heart, filling your home with warmth, aroma, and the joy of festive cheer.
