Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Noodle Bake?
It is a hearty vegetarian casserole made with fresh broccoli, mushrooms, wide egg noodles, and a creamy cheese base, topped with breadcrumbs and cheddar.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, making it a great option for meat-free family dinners.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
What size baking dish is required?
A 9x13-inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
How should the broccoli be prepared?
You should use 2 stalks of fresh broccoli, which need to be peeled and chopped.
How long do I need to sauté the vegetables?
The broccoli, mushrooms, and onion should be sautéed in butter for about 8-10 minutes until tender.
Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese or a combination of ricotta and cottage cheese.
What kind of noodles are used in this bake?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of uncooked wide egg noodles.
Should I fully cook the noodles before baking?
No, you should cook the noodles until they are slightly underdone (al dente) so they don't become mushy during baking.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking after boiling?
After draining the noodles, toss them with a little butter to prevent them from sticking together.
Why is white wine used in the recipe?
1/4 cup of dry white wine is added to the sautéed vegetables to add depth of flavor; it should be cooked until the liquid evaporates.
How many eggs are needed?
The recipe requires 3 large eggs, which should be beaten before being mixed with the cheeses.
How much sour cream is included?
The recipe uses 1 cup of sour cream to create a smooth, creamy base.
What is the total baking time?
The casserole takes 45 minutes total: 30 minutes covered with foil and 15 minutes uncovered.
What provides the crunchy topping?
The topping is made from fine breadcrumbs or wheat germ, along with grated sharp cheddar cheese.
Can I use wheat germ instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, wheat germ is a suggested alternative to breadcrumbs for both the filling and the topping.
How much cheddar cheese do I need?
You will need 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese to sprinkle on top.
How much mushroom is used?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of fresh, sliced mushrooms.
Should I drain the sautéed vegetables before mixing?
Yes, use a slotted spoon to transfer the vegetables to the cheese mixture to allow any excess liquid to drain.
Is this recipe good for a crowd?
Yes, it is ideal for feeding a crowd or for potlucks. For a smaller family, consider halving the recipe.
When do I remove the foil during baking?
Remove the foil after the first 30 minutes of baking to allow the top to become golden brown.
What kind of onion should I use?
The recipe specifies 1 large onion, chopped.
How much butter is used for sautéing?
Use 1-2 tablespoons of butter to sauté the vegetables in a large skillet.
How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
It is done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Can I use any type of white wine?
The recipe suggests a dry white wine for the best flavor profile.
How much ricotta or cottage cheese is required?
You will need 3 cups of ricotta or cottage cheese.
What seasonings are included?
The dish is seasoned simply with salt and pepper to taste.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients used in this noodle bake.
Should the eggs be beaten before adding to the cheese?
Yes, beat the 3 eggs until well combined before whisking in the cheese and sour cream.
Is this a Moosewood Cookbook style recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a Moosewood Cookbook style recipe, known for wholesome vegetarian cooking.