This German noodle bake is a timeless, old-fashioned comfort food recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Made with homemade egg noodles, a simple Swiss cheese sauce, and baked until golden and creamy, this dish is hearty, nostalgic, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Popular in Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch kitchens, this baked noodle casserole is a cozy side dish or satisfying main course that works beautifully for holidays, potlucks, and Sunday dinners.
Why You’ll Love This German Noodle Bake Recipe
- Classic old-fashioned German comfort food
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Rich, creamy Swiss cheese sauce
- Perfect make-ahead casserole
- Ideal for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners
Ingredients for German Noodle Bake
Homemade Egg Noodles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 quarts water (for boiling)
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1½ cups milk
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese, diced
- 2 large eggs, well beaten
How to Make German Noodle Bake
Step 1: Make the Egg Noodle Dough
In a small bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs. Stir until a dough forms.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Noodles
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–6 minutes, until smooth. Divide in half. Roll each portion into a thin 12×9-inch rectangle. Lightly dust with flour, roll up jelly-roll style, and slice into ¼-inch strips. Unroll noodles and let dry on paper towels for up to 2 hours.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bring water to a rapid boil in a Dutch oven. Add noodles and cook for 7–9 minutes, or until tender. Drain well.
Step 4: Make the Swiss Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and paprika until smooth. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil and cook 2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in Swiss cheese until melted, then gently stir in beaten eggs.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer drained noodles to a greased 11×7-inch baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over noodles and gently toss to coat. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until set and lightly golden on top.
Tips for the Best German Noodle Bake
- Let noodles dry slightly for better texture
- Dice Swiss cheese small so it melts evenly
- Do not overbake—this keeps the casserole creamy
- Serve hot for best flavor and texture
Serving Suggestions
This German noodle casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Roast chicken or pork chops
- Green beans or buttered peas
- Simple garden salad
- Applesauce or pickled beets for a traditional touch
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave
German Noodle Bake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic German noodle bake is made with homemade egg noodles and a creamy Swiss cheese sauce, then baked until rich, comforting, and golden. An old-fashioned Amish-style comfort food perfect for family dinners, holidays, and potlucks.
Ingredients
For the Egg Noodles
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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3 large eggs, lightly beaten
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2 quarts water, for boiling
For the Cheese Sauce
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3 tablespoons butter
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon paprika
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1½ cups milk
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8 ounces Swiss cheese, diced
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2 large eggs, well beaten
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add eggs. Stir until a dough forms.
-
Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–6 minutes until smooth. Divide in half.
-
Roll each portion into a thin 12×9-inch rectangle. Lightly dust with flour, roll up jelly-roll style, and cut into ¼-inch strips. Unroll noodles and let dry on paper towels for up to 2 hours.
-
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bring water to a rapid boil in a Dutch oven. Add noodles and cook 7–9 minutes, or until tender. Drain well.
-
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and paprika until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil and cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in Swiss cheese until melted. Gently stir in beaten eggs.
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Transfer drained noodles to a greased 11×7-inch baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over noodles and gently toss to coat.
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Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until set and lightly golden. Serve warm.
Notes
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Store-bought egg noodles may be substituted if desired.
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Do not overbake—this keeps the casserole creamy.
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A sprinkle of fresh chives on top adds color and freshness before serving.
- Prep Time: 45 MINS
- Cook Time: 30 MINUTES
- Category: SIDE DISH | DINNER
- Method: BAKED
- Cuisine: AMISH INSPIRED | GERMAN
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought egg noodles?
Yes. While homemade noodles offer the best texture, wide egg noodles work well in a pinch.
Can I substitute another cheese?
Swiss is traditional, but Gruyère or mild white cheddar can be used.
Is this a main dish or side dish?
It works as both. Serve it as a main for lunch or a hearty side for dinner.
Final Thoughts
This German noodle bake recipe is a true comfort-food classic—simple, creamy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re honoring tradition or just craving something cozy and homemade, this baked noodle dish is one you’ll come back to again and again.
