Ina Garten Potato Kugel Recipe

Let me tell you, this Potato Kugel pairs fantastically with so many dishes. It’s a versatile side that can complement almost any main course. During holidays or family gatherings, this dish shines brightly alongside roasted meats like Cajun Stuffed Chicken, Cava Grill Chicken and it’s equally tasty with lighter fare, such as Tuna Macaroni Salad or Chinese Chicken Salad. If you’re vegetarian, pairing it with roasted vegetables or a lentil stew will do wonders. Serve it with a good quality apple sauce or Cream Sauce and you’re in for a treat.

Why This Recipe Is Great for You

If you’re searching for a dish that brings comfort and richness to your table, look no further than Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel. This traditional Jewish dish is baked with a golden crispy exterior, while the inside remains soft and tender.

It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or when you just want to treat yourself to something satisfying. The best part? It’s relatively simple to make and doesn’t require any complex ingredients — just love and a bit of patience.

Ingredients and Their Stories

Now let’s dive into the ingredients. Each one of them adds a unique touch.

First, the frozen shredded hash browns. These save you the hassle of grating potatoes yourself and are just as good. Thaw them out, and they’re ready to go.

Next up, onions. They bring in a special sweetness as they cook down. They’re the unsung heroes of this dish, trust me.

Don’t forget the extra virgin olive oil. A good quality olive oil elevates the dish. It’s the glue that brings everything together.

The coarse kosher salt is essential for seasoning. It’s less dense and saltier, perfect for bringing out all the flavors.

Of course, we need a large egg. It acts as the binding agent, holding all the goodness together.

Now, let’s not overlook the thyme leaves and chives. Fresh herbs bring a burst of earthy flavors that uplift the whole dish.

Lastly, a dash of black pepper adds just the right amount of kick.

Ingredients List

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 garlic clove
• 10 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1/4 cup finely diced onions (approximately 1/2 small onion)
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 sprig of thyme (leaves only)
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• A dash of freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare Ingredients

Gather and measure out all the ingredients: finely chop 1/4 cup of onion, and thaw 10 ounces of frozen shredded hash brown potatoes if not already done.

3. Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic if you prefer. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

4. Add Herbs and Seasonings

Add the thyme leaves and chopped chives to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions. Season with a pinch of black pepper.

5. Incorporate Potatoes

Add the thawed shredded hash brown potatoes to the skillet. Stir to mix the potatoes with the onion and herb mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors.

6. Season the Mixture

Add 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to the skillet, stirring well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

7. Transfer to Baking Dish

Carefully transfer the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

8. Add Egg

Beat 1 large egg and pour it over the potato mixture in the baking dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

9. Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the kugel is golden brown and crispy on top.

10. Cool and Serve

Remove the kugel from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade potato kugel!

Recipe Notes

Frozen Shredded Hash Browns: These are a time-saver. Just make sure they’re fully thawed to avoid a soggy kugel.

Onions: Sweetness and depth — don’t rush the dicing.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Quality matters. A good olive oil makes a big difference in taste.

Coarse Kosher Salt: Seasoning is key. Coarse salt brings out the flavors without overwhelming them.

Egg: The glue of the kugel.

Thyme and Chives: Fresh herbs. Always. They provide a burst of flavor that dry herbs just can’t match.

Black Pepper: A little kick goes a long way.

Recipe Variations

1. Can I make Potato Kugel ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the kugel and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the oven until warmed through. The flavors deepen, making it even more delicious.

2. Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze potato kugel. Once baked, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven.

3. What can I substitute for chives and thyme?
If you don’t have chives and thyme on hand, you can use green onions and dried oregano. While the flavor profile will be different, it will still be delicious.

4. How do I prevent my potato kugel from getting soggy?
Make sure to thaw and drain your hash browns well. You can even pat them dry with a paper towel. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking dish, ensuring even cooking and a crispier texture.

5. Can I add meat to this potato kugel?
Definitely. Adding cooked, crumbled bacon or pieces of sausage can make it a heartier and more filling dish. Just mix it in with the potatoes and bake as directed.

6. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can grate fresh potatoes. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a soggy kugel.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Potato Kugel is a delightful dish that promises comfort and satisfaction. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and versatile, it works for any occasion.

Whether you bring it out for holiday feasts or casual family dinners, the flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try, and let your table be filled with warmth and deliciousness. Bon appétit!