Croatian Cheese Strukli Recipe

Introduction

Croatian Cheese Strukli is a comforting baked pasta dish filled with a creamy cheese mixture and topped with melted cheddar. This traditional recipe combines tender dough with rich, flavorful ingredients to create a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 3 1/4 cups Baker’s Corner all-purpose flour
• 5 Goldhen large eggs, divided
• 3 1/2 tablespoons Countryside Creamery melted butter, divided
• 2/3 cup water
• 24 ounces Friendly Farms cottage cheese
• 1 1/4 cup Friendly Farms sour cream
• 10 ounces Specially Selected Aged Reserve white cheddar, shredded and divided
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon Stonemill garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 1/4 cups Countryside Creamery half-and-half
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Brush the bottom and sides of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
2. Step 2: In a stand mixer bowl, combine the flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 egg, 1 1/2 tablespoons melted butter, and 2/3 cup water. Attach the bread hook and mix on low for 5 minutes until a smooth, tacky ball forms. Continue kneading for another 2-3 minutes. If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons water. Brush the dough ball and bowl sides with the remaining butter, cover with plastic, and let rest for at least 15 minutes.
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, mix the cottage cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, 4 eggs, thyme, garlic powder, nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper in a bowl until well combined.
4. Step 4: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. On a clean surface, roll and stretch each piece into a 9 x 13 inch rectangle. The dough should be thin enough to see light through it. Spread one-quarter of the cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Starting from a short end, fold the dough over 1 1/2 to 2 inches at a time to form a loose log. Carefully lift and place the log in the prepared baking dish.
5. Step 5: Repeat with the remaining dough and cheese mixture to make four logs. Once arranged in the dish, cut each log into 4 equal pieces. Pour the half-and-half over the top and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheddar.
6. Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes until the tops are puffed and golden, even in the center. Let cool slightly, then cut and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use full-fat cottage cheese and sour cream.
• If you don’t have a stand mixer, knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
• Swap dried thyme with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or dill for a fresher taste.
• Try adding a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese filling for a gentle heat.

Storage

Store leftover Strukli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. This dish can also be frozen after baking; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely. Cream cheese or ricotta can be mixed with the cottage cheese for a creamier texture. Feel free to experiment with mild mozzarella or a sharper cheddar if you prefer.