Ina Garten Potato Kugel Recipe- Easy Kitchen Guide (2024)

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By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on June 12, 2023 | Last Updated on August 19, 2023

Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel is a classic Jewish dish that has become a beloved side of many holiday meals and gatherings. Its made of shredded potatoes, onions, and eggs.

It has a crisp exterior with a soft interior and is full of flavor from the combination of schmaltz (chicken fat), thyme, pepper, chives, eggs, and salt.

This delicious potato kugel recipe is a great side dish for any holiday meal or gathering. It can also be served as an appetizer or snack.

This recipe guide will show you how to make Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel. So, let’s get started!

Ina Garten Potato Kugel Recipe- Easy Kitchen Guide (1)

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What is Potato Kugel Recipe?

As mentioned above, potato kugel is a classic Jewish dish. It is made from shredded potatoes, onions, and eggs which are combined with schmaltz (chicken fat), thyme, black pepper, chives, and salt. The mixture is then baked in an oven to give it a crisp exterior and soft interior.

However, I am a big fan of Ina Garten. I collected her Go-To Dinners: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook. This is where I found this recipe.

Once I saw the recipe, I knew that I had to try it. It is a simple and delicious dish that everyone in my family loves.

How to make Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel?

Making Ina Garten Potato Kugel is very easy. The key here is to ensure you thaw the potatoes properly and that your onion is finely diced. Then follow the instructions and steps, and you will have the delicious potato kugel in your hand.

You can also read the following breakfast recipes:

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  • Panera Bread Sierra Turkey Sandwich Copycat Recipe

Ingredients

  • Nonstick cooking spray: Spray used to coat the baking dish.
  • Onions: Finely diced onions for flavor.
  • Schmaltz (chicken fat): Used to add richness and flavor.
  • Hash brown potatoes: Thawed frozen shredded potatoes make up the base of the kugel.
  • Thyme: An herb used to add flavor.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure for the kugel.
  • Black pepper: Adds a bit of spice to the dish.
  • Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
  • Chives: Chopped chives bring a bit of freshness and texture to the dish.
Ina Garten Potato Kugel Recipe- Easy Kitchen Guide (2)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9″ × 13″ baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2

Heat the schmaltz or olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onions, thyme and black pepper, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are lightly browned.

Step 3

Add the thawed hashbrowns, chives and 1 teaspoon of salt to the onion mixture and stir to combine. Spread the potatoes in an even layer in the baking dish and press down gently to compact them.

Step 4

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 cup of water until blended. Pour evenly over the potatoes in the baking dish.

Step 5

Bake for 40 minutes or until lightly browned and crisp on top. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with extra chopped chives.

Tips

• Make sure to thaw the hashbrowns completely before adding them to the onion mixture.

• Add extra salt and pepper to taste if desired.

• If the kugel is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking time.

Ina Garten Potato Kugel Recipe- Easy Kitchen Guide (3)

Ina Garten Potato Kugel

Ina Garten's Potato Kugel is a classic Jewish dish that has become a beloved side of many holiday meals and gatherings. Its made of shredded potatoes, onions, and eggs. It has a crisp exterior with a soft interior and is full of flavor from the combination of schmaltz (chicken fat), thyme, pepper, chives, eggs, and salt.

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Author: Lori Walker, MS, RD

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 5

Calories: 140kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • 2 small onions, finely diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons schmaltz (chicken fat) or olive oil
  • 3 pounds frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
  • 2 sprigs thyme
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 bunch chives, chopped (1/4 cup), plus more for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9″ × 13″ baking dish with cooking spray.

  • Heat the schmaltz or olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onions, thyme and black pepper, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are lightly browned.

  • Add the thawed hashbrowns, chives and 1 teaspoon of salt to the onion mixture and stir to combine. Spread the potatoes in an even layer in the baking dish and press down gently to compact them.

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 cup of water until blended. Pour evenly over the potatoes in the baking dish.

  • Bake for 40 minutes or until lightly browned and crisp on top. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with extra chopped chives.

Notes

  • Make sure to thaw the hashbrowns completely before adding them to the onion mixture.
  • Add extra salt and pepper to taste if desired.
  • If the kugel is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking time.

Keyword: Ina Garten Potato Kugel, Ina Garten Potato Kugel Recipe

Nutrition Information

One serving of Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel contains approximately 140 calories, 10 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein and 8 grams of carbohydrates.

What to serve with Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel?

Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel is a great side dish that pairs well with roasted or grilled meats such as chicken or steak and can also be served with fish or a vegetarian dish. It also goes great alongside a green salad or cooked vegetables.

You can also enjoy it as an appetizer served with sauces or dips of your choice. For a heartier meal, top with sour cream and chives for a delicious potato casserole dish.

Since the kugel is savory, you may choose to serve it with a side of sweet condiments such as apple sauce or cranberry sauce.

How to store leftover Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel?

You can store leftover Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through.

Can pregnant women eat this?

Yes, pregnant women can definitely enjoy Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel. The ingredients used in this recipe are generally considered safe for consumption during pregnancy. However, as with all foods during pregnancy, it’s recommended to limit the amount of salt consumed and keep an eye on portion sizes.

FAQs

Can I substitute the schmaltz for another fat?

Yes, you can substitute the schmaltz for a different fat such as olive oil or butter. The flavor of the dish will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Is Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel vegan-friendly?

Unfortunately, Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel is not vegan-friendly as it contains eggs and schmaltz (chicken fat). However, you can make a vegan version of the dish by substituting the eggs and chicken fat for vegan alternatives like tofu or vegetable broth. You can also substitute the chives for another type of herb like parsley or basil.

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s, Potato Kugel?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Once cooked, allow the kugel to cool completely before wrapping it well with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

How can I make Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you will need to use potato starch or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, double-check to make sure that all other ingredients used are labeled as gluten-free.

How do I keep my potato kugel from sticking to the baking dish?

To prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking dish, make sure to grease the baking dish well with nonstick cooking spray. Additionally, make sure that all of the ingredients are evenly distributed and pressed down gently into the pan for even baking. This will ensure that your potato kugel comes out perfectly every time!

Is it possible to prepare Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel ahead of time?

Yes, it is possible to prepare Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel ahead of time. You can assemble the ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before baking. When you are ready to bake, preheat the oven and proceed according to the instructions in the recipe. This will save you time and effort when it comes to preparing a delicious potato dish!

Can I use frozen hashbrowns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen hashbrowns for Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel. However, make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the mixture. Additionally, be sure to use higher fat-content hashbrowns such as those made with butter or oil for best results. This will help to ensure that your potato kugel is light and fluffy!

Is potato kugel a traditional Jewish dish?

Yes, potato kugel is a traditional Jewish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically served during the Passover Seder meal as a side dish, although it can be enjoyed any time of the year. Potato kugel is a beloved comfort food for many that bring back fond memories and taste great!

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel is a classic Jewish side dish that is full of flavor and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its crisp exterior and soft interior, this dish is perfect for any holiday gathering or family meal. Make sure to follow the tips above for the best results and enjoy!

Now that you know how to make Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel, what are you waiting for? Give it a try today! Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comment section below.

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Author Profile

Lori Walker, MS, RD

My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more

Ina Garten Potato Kugel Recipe- Easy Kitchen Guide (2024)

FAQs

Can you make potato kugel ahead of time and reheat? ›

Kugel reheats exceptionally well in a warm oven. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days, and much longer (months, even) in the freezer. I like to defrost it in the fridge before rewarming it in an oven. * Cornstarch works too.

What nationality is Potato Kugel? ›

Potato kugel is a staple Shabbat and holiday dish in Eastern European (Ashkenazi) Jewish cooking. It's sometimes called potato pudding, as kugel is Yiddish for pudding.

How do you store potato Kugel? ›

Once cooked and cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through in the center and re-crisped. You can also freeze kugel. Wrap in plastic wrap and then foil and store for up to 3 months.

Can you bake a potato kugel 2 days ahead and reheat it? ›

Bake at 350 for 90 minutes ahead of time, then refrigerate (or freeze*). Reheat for 30 minutes before serving (or an hour if frozen). If you are not making in advance, then bake for 2 straight hours before serving. For overnight kugel, bake only one hour, then reduce heat to 200 overnight.

How long can potato kugel stay in the refrigerator? ›

Potato kugel keeps well in the refrigerator for four to five days, as long as it's covered.

Why is my potato kugel Gray? ›

When you grate raw potatoes, you release starch that can cause them to oxidize, or turn dark. The best way to keep that from happening is to cover the potatoes with cold water, then drain them very well and pat them dry before cooking.

Why did my shredded potatoes turn black? ›

This process, which is called oxidation, happens because potatoes are a naturally starchy vegetable. And when exposed to oxygen, starches turn gray, brown, or even black. An oxidized potato is completely safe to eat. The process doesn't affect the flavor or texture of the vegetable.

Why does my noodle Kugel fall apart? ›

Make Sure to Cool Your Kugel

Once it's baked, a kugel needs to cool, otherwise it will fall apart when slicing. Give it at least an hour to cool and set up, then slice and serve it warm or at room temperature.

Why do Jews eat kugel? ›

As Rabbi Pinchas of Koretz once said, “Jews eat lots of lokshen on Shabbat because noodles are symbolic of the unity of the people of Israel: They are so tangled that they can never be separated.” Noodle kugel may not actually be eaten by all Jews, but it has clearly reached far beyond mere Ashkenazi cuisine.

What do you eat with kugel? ›

Kugel is traditionally served as a side dish alongside something meaty like brisket or roast chicken. In this case it would normally be served warm, but it can also be refrigerated and eaten cold the next day. Sweeter versions can also be eaten hot or cold, and taste great with fresh cream or vanilla ice cream.

Can you freeze potato Kugel? ›

While kugel is best fresh from the oven, you can freeze it, wrapped well, then reheat ovenight.

Can potato kugel be left out overnight? ›

A: NO! This is the wrong way to do it and is not food safe. Cooked starch foods like potatoes can grow germs if not kept either refrigerated and cold or hot over 140º F.

How do you reheat potato kugel in the oven? ›

The kugel reheats extremely well in a 350°F oven, uncovered so the top can crisp up additionally. Reheating time depends on the size of the piece being reheated, and at what temperature the kugel is when going into the oven.

When should I eat kugel? ›

Kugel can be served at Jewish holidays, special events or even a weekend brunch. It commonly makes an appearance on the dinner table during Shavuot (along with bourekas), when it's traditional to consume dairy foods, and Shabbat because it's said that kugel resembles the manna that fell from heaven.

What is the best way to reheat kugel? ›

To reheat noodle kugel in the oven, one should preheat to 300°F (150°C) or for a quicker warm-up, 350°F (175°C). The kugel should be placed in a ceramic or glass baking dish to evenly distribute heat. If it's dry, add a few tablespoons of water or oil over the top, then cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.

How do you reheat a kugel? ›

Heat for 30 minutes (remove cover for last 10 minutes of heating for a crispy top). Remove from oven & serve. Alternatively, kugel can be reheated in the microwave on high for 4-6 minutes (without aluminum tray!) but we recommend a traditional oven method.

Can noodle kugel be reheated? ›

This kugel can be baked up to two days before serving; reheat it in a 300 F oven for 15 minutes or so. You also can make the kugel and refrigerate it unbaked for up to a day, then bake it just before serving.

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