Frankenmuth noodles bring a taste of Michigan’s rich culinary heritage right to our kitchen. This traditional German-inspired dish features tender egg noodles tossed in a creamy, buttery sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe with roots in the charming town of Frankenmuth, known for its Bavarian-style cooking and warm hospitality.
We love how this dish combines everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main, Frankenmuth noodles offer a cozy, homemade flavor that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into making this classic recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
To capture the true essence of Frankenmuth Noodles, we focus on simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a rich, comforting dish. Below is the essential list you will need to prepare this traditional German-inspired recipe:
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles – cooked al dente, drained
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – for that rich, creamy base
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – adds a sweet, aromatic depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – brings subtle warmth and flavor
- 1 cup beef broth – enhances the savory profile
- 1 cup heavy cream – for the creamy, luscious sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – essential for balancing flavors
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – for a bright, fresh finish
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wide egg noodles | 8 ounces | Cooked al dente |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Provides rich creaminess |
| Small onion | 1 | Finely chopped for aroma |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Minced |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | Adds savory depth |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creates creamy sauce |
| Salt | To taste | Balances flavors |
| Black pepper | To taste | Adds subtle heat |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped for garnish |
These ingredients perfectly embody the signature flavor profile of Frankenmuth Noodles—a balance of creamy richness, savory undertones, and fresh herbaceous notes. Our careful selection ensures every bite delights the senses with the traditional Bavarian-inspired taste that has made this dish a holiday and family dinner favorite.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Frankenmuth Noodles, having the right equipment on hand is essential for smooth preparation and excellent results. Below is a detailed list of the tools we use to bring out the authentic flavors and creamy texture of this classic dish.
- Large Pot
We boil the wide egg noodles in a large pot filled with salted water. The pot should be spacious enough to allow the noodles to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander
After boiling, a colander is necessary to drain the noodles thoroughly, ensuring they don’t retain excess water that could dilute the sauce.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
We melt the butter and sauté the onions and garlic in a large skillet. This pan is where the beef broth and cream marry with the noodles to build the rich sauce of the dish.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
These utensils are perfect for stirring the noodles gently, preventing breakage and ensuring even coating of the sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of broth, cream, butter, and seasoning ensures the balance of flavors that define Frankenmuth Noodles.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
For finely chopping the onions, garlic, and fresh parsley, sharp knives and a steady cutting board are indispensable.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling wide egg noodles |
| Colander | Draining cooked noodles |
| Large Skillet/Sauté Pan | Cooking onions, garlic, and making creamy sauce |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring ingredients without damage |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board | Chopping aromatics and fresh herbs |
Using these tools, we ensure that every step in making our Frankenmuth Noodles is efficient, clean, and retains the dish’s traditional taste and texture.
Prep Work
Before we begin crafting our Frankenmuth Noodles, taking the right steps in the Prep Work will set us up for success. This stage ensures the dough and filling come together perfectly, embodying the rich tradition and delicious flavors of the dish.
Preparing the Dough
To make the tender and silky noodles that define Frankenmuth Noodles, it’s crucial to prepare the dough with precision:
- Measure flour accurately to guarantee the perfect texture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon water (add gradually to adjust dough consistency)
- Use a fork or your hands to mix ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead firmly for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This step hydrates the flour and relaxes gluten, making the dough easier to roll out.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted for lightness |
| Eggs | 3 large | Bring to room temp |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | For seasoning |
| Water | 1 tablespoon | Add gradually |
“The dough’s hydration and gluten development are the foundation of our noodles’ tender bite and smooth mouthfeel.”
Making the Filling
The filling adds the distinctive flavor that complements our noodles’ delicate texture. Here’s how we prepare it to achieve that creamy, savory goodness:
- Chop finely:
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- Sauté onion and garlic in 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat until translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup beef broth (warm)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Stir sautéed onion and garlic into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Keep the filling warm while rolling and assembling the noodles.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Onion | 1 small | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces | Softened |
| Beef broth | 1/4 cup | Warm |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Freshly ground pepper |
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create authentic Frankenmuth Noodles. Each phase from rolling to cooking ensures a rich, homemade flavor that honors the traditional German-inspired roots.
Rolling and Cutting the Noodles
- Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking.
- Roll the rested dough into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick, using a rolling pin.
- Trim the edges to create a neat rectangle.
- Cut the dough into wide strips approximately 1 1/2 inches across for the signature Frankenmuth noodles width.
- Lay the strips flat on a floured surface or a clean kitchen towel to prevent clumping.
Filling and Shaping the Noodles
- Place a teaspoon of the creamy filling evenly spaced along one edge of each noodle strip.
- Fold the strip over the filling to create a long, filled band.
- Press gently around each filling mound to seal, ensuring no gaps remain.
- Cut between each filled section into individual pillows about 2 inches long.
- Pinch edges tightly to secure the filling during cooking.
Cooking the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Carefully drop the filled noodles into the boiling water in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook for approximately 4 to 6 minutes or until the noodles float to the surface and become tender.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked noodles to a warm serving dish.
- Pour the rich buttery cream sauce over the noodles, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
| Step | Details | Temperature/Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling Thickness | Thin sheet | 1/8 inch |
| Noodle Width | Wide strips | 1 1/2 inches |
| Filling Amount | Per spoonful | 1 teaspoon |
| Noodle Length | Individual pillows | 2 inches |
| Cooking Time | Boil | 4-6 minutes |
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Frankenmuth Noodles, consider these Serving Suggestions that enhance the dish’s rich flavors and celebrate its Bavarian roots.
- Pair with Hearty Meats
Serve the creamy noodles alongside roasted pork loin, bratwurst, or a juicy meatloaf. The savory meat complements the buttery sauce, creating a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
- Add Seasonal Vegetables
Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or sautéed Brussels sprouts provide a fresh, crisp contrast. Their slight bitterness balances the noodles’ richness perfectly.
- Top with Fresh Herbs and Cheese
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives for brightness. For extra indulgence, grate a bit of sharp aged cheddar or Parmesan over the noodles just before serving.
- Include a Side Salad
A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess while offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Accompany with Artisan Bread
Soft dinner rolls or crusty rye bread serve as excellent vessels to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Serving Temperature and Presentation Tips
| Tip | Detail |
|---|---|
| Serve Hot | To preserve the creamy texture serve the noodles warm. |
| Garnish Elegantly | Use a small sprig of parsley or a sprinkle of herbs. |
| Portion Size | Aim for 1 to 1.5 cups per serving as a side dish. |
| Serving Vessel | Wide shallow bowls emphasize the sauce and noodles. |
We recommend serving Frankenmuth Noodles promptly after cooking to maintain their luscious texture. The buttery sauce tastes best when freshly made and gently coats each tender noodle.
“Frankenmuth Noodles are perfect for bringing comfort and tradition to the table. Thoughtfully pairing them with complementary sides elevates the entire meal experience.“
By following these suggestions we ensure every serving of Frankenmuth Noodles shines at your family dinner or holiday gathering.
Storage Tips
Properly storing Frankenmuth Noodles ensures we maintain their creamy texture and rich flavors for later enjoyment. Follow these steps to keep our dish fresh and delicious.
Refrigerating Frankenmuth Noodles
- Allow the noodles to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Transfer the noodles into an airtight container, or tightly cover a bowl with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Freezing Frankenmuth Noodles
- For longer storage, freeze the noodles in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag.
- Portion noodles into single or family-size servings for easy thawing.
- Label each container with the date of freezing.
- Freeze for up to 2 months to preserve optimal quality.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat on low heat with added liquid to keep the sauce smooth.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | 3–4 days | Reheat gently with broth or cream |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe container or bag | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight; reheat with added liquid |
“Storing Frankenmuth Noodles correctly locks in the traditional creamy richness, making every bite taste freshly prepared.“
Additional Tips
- Avoid storing noodles in metal containers to prevent any unwanted reactions with the creamy sauce.
- If sauce thickens during storage, stir in a small amount of warm broth or cream when reheating.
- Do not refreeze noodles after thawing to maintain the dish’s texture and flavor integrity.
These careful storage practices help us enjoy our Frankenmuth Noodles even days after cooking while preserving the authentic Bavarian-inspired taste.
Conclusion
Frankenmuth Noodles bring a comforting taste of Bavarian tradition right to our tables. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish fits perfectly into any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive celebration.
By mastering the preparation and serving tips, we can enjoy the rich, creamy flavors that make these noodles so special. Plus, knowing how to store and reheat them means we get to savor that homemade goodness even days later.
This recipe is a wonderful way to connect with Michigan’s culinary heritage while creating delicious memories with those we care about.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Frankenmuth Noodles?
Frankenmuth Noodles are a traditional German-inspired dish from Michigan featuring wide egg noodles in a creamy, buttery sauce. The dish highlights Bavarian-style cooking and is known for its comforting, rich, and savory flavors.
What ingredients are needed to make Frankenmuth Noodles?
Key ingredients include wide egg noodles, unsalted butter, onion, garlic, beef broth, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. These create the dish’s signature creamy and savory taste.
What equipment do I need to prepare Frankenmuth Noodles?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling noodles, a colander for draining, a large skillet for the sauce, utensils like a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, measuring cups and spoons, a chef’s knife, and a cutting board.
How do I prepare the dough and filling for the noodles?
Mix flour, eggs, and salt, then knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Rest the dough before rolling. For the filling, sauté onion and garlic in butter, then combine with cream cheese and beef broth for a creamy, savory mixture.
What is the process for rolling and cooking Frankenmuth Noodles?
Roll the dough into thin sheets and cut into wide strips. Place a teaspoon of filling on each strip, fold, and seal. Boil the filled noodles until they float and are tender, then serve with buttery cream sauce and fresh parsley.
What are some serving suggestions for Frankenmuth Noodles?
Serve with roasted pork loin, bratwurst, or seasonal vegetables. Add fresh herbs, cheese, a light side salad, and artisan bread for a complete meal. Serve hot in wide shallow bowls for best texture.
How should I store leftovers of Frankenmuth Noodles?
Store noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze in portions for longer storage. Avoid metal containers and add a bit of liquid when reheating to retain creaminess.