Classic Noodle Kugel

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Place a rimmed sheet pan in the oven and heat to 350 degrees. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Step 2

   Grease a 2½ quart baking dish or a 9-by-13-inch pan with 2 tablespoons melted butter.

3. Step 3

   Add noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until just tender. Put the raisins or dried fruit, if using, into a colander.

4. Step 4

   As the noodles cook, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, sour cream, sugar, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg or pepper (if using), and ½ teaspoon salt in a blender or food processor. Pulse until well combined. Pulse in about 6 tablespoons of the butter, saving about 2 tablespoons for the top of the kugel.

5. Step 5

   When noodles are done, drain them in the colander over the raisins. The boiling water helps plump the raisins. Add drained noodles (and any raisins) to a large bowl, add the cottage cheese mixture, and use a spatula to mix well.

6. Step 6

   Scrape into the prepared pan, evenly spreading out the noodles. Drizzle with remaining melted butter. Place the kugel on the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is browned in spots. Transfer to a wire rack to cool for at least 20 minutes before serving.