Sometimes I think there are as many ‘Favourite Casserole’ lists online as there are casseroles. I usually give them a perfunctory ‘That’s nice…” and move on. But I was favourably disposed toward a recent post focusing on Egg Noodles…
Classic Turkey Noodle Soup
When Sister Erin gifted me with the printout of a post titled ’17 egg noodle recipes that are comforting and delicious’, I immediately suffered a nostalgia seizure.
I was transported ‘in a flash’ back to my childhood. Mom was glowing with pride as she placed one of her signature Tuna Noodle casseroles on the supper table. And I was literally salivating in anticipation of digging into it…
The episode reminded me how partial I was – and still am – to just about anything over Egg Noodles!
My picks from the ‘saucy 17’…
These are all simplified versions of classic recipes, designed for quick week-day supper implementation. Though all have big, flat, fat Egg Noodles in common, there’s an amazing variety in the concoctions that go on top!
Best Beef Stroganoff
This authentically Russian dish has become a favourite all across the modern world. It’s hallmark is its unique, tawny-coloured, meaty sauce, redolent of mustard and silky with sour cream.
You could serve it on top of any pasta that took your fancy. Or even rice. But it wouldn’t be the same without the classic bed of Egg Noodles.
Sour Cream Noodle Bake
Celebrate the iconic combination of ground beef and cheese in a casserole! It’s like a Sloppy Joe over noodles – with a big hit of traditional orange Cheddar on top.
Most folks of my generation had this one – or one its many variations – at least once or twice a month all through their elementary school years…
French Onion Chicken Noodle
Basically, your classic chicken noodle casserole with a twist: A healthy dose of sweet, crispy caramelized onions. This is a variation I haven’t tried (yet). But I’m in love with the concept!
You don’t have to use pricey Gruyere Cheese. Substitute Monterrey Jack or a young white cheddar for equally scrumptious results. And don’t skimp on the bread crumb topping!
Turkey Noodle Soup
Another classic. And a great way to use up leftover turkey from that recent festive feast! Make your own stock from the carcass, or use store-bought low-salt broth. (So you can regulate the salt content and flavour yourself.)
Be sure to follow the age-old formula, using only the Mirepoix veggies from the stock for veggies: celery, onions and carrots. use exactly the same procedure and supporting ingredients to make a classic chicken noodle soup!
Beef Noodle Skillet
Essentially, you mom’s scrambled ground beef over noodles. But the concept really got a boost when Hamburger Helper first came on the scene. You could do it that way, but it’s not much more fuss to make it from scratch. And the result is superior.
This one is often dressed up with zippy herbs and spices. If you’re a garlic fan, here’s a good opportunity to indulge yourself!
Hungarian Goulash
A pretty good version, with all the flavours and textures of the classic. (See photo, top of page.) But it takes a fraction of the time to make. Flavour-wise this one is all about tomatoes, onions and paprika.
Serve over an ample portion of noodles, with fresh, thick sour cream on the side!
In conclusion…
I’m definitely going to revisit my blissful childhood years via the nearest fork… I hope you’ll join me!
~ Maggie J.