This Broccoli & Onion Kugel is like a cozy hug on a plate! Made with fresh broccoli and sweet onions, it’s baked to golden perfection with eggs and a touch of cheese for extra yum.
It’s a fun way to enjoy veggies, and honestly, who can resist that cheese? I love to serve it as a side dish at dinner or enjoy it for lunch warmed up the next day. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is essential here for a vibrant color and texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too—just thaw and drain it well before using. I like to chop it small for a more even bake.
Onion: Sweet onions like Vidalia add a nice sweetness to the kugel. If you prefer, yellow onions can also work well. They add a bit more bite, which can be very tasty!
Cottage Cheese or Ricotta: Cottage cheese gives a nice texture, but ricotta makes it a bit creamier. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan cream cheese alternative. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still hold the mixture together!
Cheese: I suggest mozzarella for its meltiness, but Swiss cheese gives a nutty flavor. You could also mix both! For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese that melts.
How Do I Get My Kugel to Bake Evenly?
The key to a well-baked kugel is even mixing and the right baking dish. Start by ensuring your veggies are chopped uniformly so they cook evenly. In your baking dish, spreading the mixture evenly helps it set uniformly.
- Preheat your oven fully to help with rising.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
- Let it sit a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up, making it easier to slice!
With these tips, you’re on your way to making a fantastic Broccoli & Onion Kugel! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Broccoli & Onion Kugel
Ingredients You Will Need:
Vegetable Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Base Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Cheesy Mix:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Binding Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup matzo meal or breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Butter or oil for greasing the baking dish
Time Estimate:
Preparing this Broccoli & Onion Kugel will take about 15 minutes, and baking it will require another 45-55 minutes. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 10 minutes to enjoy a deliciously baked kugel!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9-inch pie dish or casserole dish with butter or oil to keep the kugel from sticking.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Once cooked, set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Whisk Together Your Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs, cottage cheese (or ricotta), sour cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if you’re using it). Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine All the Ingredients:
Add in the chopped broccoli, the sautéed onion and garlic, the shredded cheese, and the matzo meal (or breadcrumbs). Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
5. Pour into the Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly.
6. Bake Your Kugel:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and it’s done when the center is set, and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean to indicate it’s ready!
7. Let It Cool:
Once baked, remove the kugel from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help it hold its shape better.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Broccoli & Onion Kugel warm or at room temperature as a savory side dish or even as a light meal. Trust me, it’s absolutely tasty!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture before chopping and adding it to the mixture to ensure your kugel doesn’t get watery.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use any type of cheese you prefer. Cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative can work well too. Just adjust based on your flavor preference and dietary restrictions!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover Broccoli & Onion Kugel can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Kugel Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just pour it into your greased dish and bake as directed when you’re ready to enjoy!