Túrós Csusza is a traditional Hungarian comfort food made with noodles, túró (a type of Hungarian cottage cheese), crispy bacon, and sour cream. It’s simple, rich, and incredibly satisfying.
Here’s a classic version, with substitutions for non-Hungarian ingredients if needed:
🇭🇺 Túrós Csusza (Hungarian Cottage Cheese Noodles)
🧺 Ingredients:
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8 oz (about 225g) wide egg noodles (or any flat pasta)
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1 cup (250g) túró* (or substitute with well-drained ricotta or farmer’s cheese)
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1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
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4 oz (100-120g) smoked bacon or pancetta, diced
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Salt, to taste
*Túró is a dry, crumbly cottage cheese common in Central/Eastern Europe. If using regular cottage cheese, drain it in cheesecloth or a sieve first.
🔧 Instructions:
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Cook the Noodles
Boil the egg noodles in salted water until just tender. Drain and set aside. -
Fry the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels. Reserve the bacon fat. -
Assemble the Dish
In the same skillet or a large mixing bowl, toss the drained noodles with:-
A spoonful of the reserved bacon fat (optional, but flavorful)
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The sour cream
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The túró or substitute cheese
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Most of the crispy bacon (save some for topping)
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Bake or Serve
You can either:-
Serve it as-is, warm and creamy, OR
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Transfer it to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes to lightly brown the top.
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Top and Serve
Sprinkle the reserved bacon over the top and serve immediately.
🍽️ Serving Tips:
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Serve with a side of cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for balance.
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Túrós Csusza is often eaten as a main dish or a hearty side.