🧀 Amish Cheddar Broccoli Noodles

A rich and creamy old-fashioned comfort dish featuring tender egg noodles, vibrant broccoli, and a smooth cheddar cheese sauce. Simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying—just like traditional Amish cooking.

🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes

🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 4–6

🛒 Ingredients

Main:

12 oz egg noodles

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)

¼ teaspoon paprika (adds warmth and color)

½ cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Broccoli

Steam or boil the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until tender yet still bright green. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Roux

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (do not brown).

4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until fully melted and velvety.

Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

5. Combine

Add the cooked noodles and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.

If using sour cream, stir it in now for added richness and a slight tang.

6. Optional Baking Step (Recommended)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

7. Serve

Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with a light sprinkle of paprika or freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve as a comforting main dish

Or as a side with roasted chicken, beef, or grilled meats

Pair with a crisp green salad for balance

💡 Chef’s Tips

Use freshly grated cheddar for the smoothest melt and best flavor

Avoid overcooking the broccoli to maintain texture and color

Add a pinch of mustard powder or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the cheese flavor

For extra richness, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream