Cheese Spaetzle, known as Käsespätzle in German, is a traditional dish originating from the Swabian region of Germany.
Cheese Spaetzle FAQ
What is the best cheese for this Cheese Spaetzle recipe?
Traditional Cheese Spaetzle uses Emmental or Gruyère for a nutty, melty finish. If these aren’t available, you can use cheddar. The key is choosing a cheese that melts well to create that signature gooey, comforting texture.
How do you make the dough for Cheese Spaetzle from scratch?
To make the dough, mix flour, eggs, milk, and salt until it forms a thick, sticky batter. Press the mixture through a spaetzle maker or colander into boiling water. Once the noodles float to the surface, they are cooked and ready for layering.
Can you make this Cheese Spaetzle recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, simply layer the cold noodles with the cheese and caramelized onions, then bake in the oven until the dish is hot and bubbly.
This comforting, cheesy noodle dish has become a beloved staple across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Spaetzle are soft, egg-based noodles, which are layered with rich, melted cheese and caramelized onions, creating a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent. Often described as the German version of mac and cheese, Käsespätzle is a go-to comfort food that’s perfect for cold weather and hearty appetites.
Origins
Cheese Spaetzle, known as Käsespätzle in German-speaking regions, originates from the Alpine areas of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This hearty dish has been a staple of the region’s cuisine for centuries, particularly among farmers and laborers who needed nutritious, energy-dense meals to sustain them through harsh winters and physically demanding work. The name Spätzle itself means “little sparrows,” and refers to, irregular shape of the noodles, which people traditionally make by hand.
In Swabia, a region in southwestern Germany, nearly everyone loved Käsespätzle. People of this region consider it a national dish. Over time, this comfort food has spread beyond its original homeland, becoming a popular choice in many Central European households. Traditionally, it is made by layering freshly cooked egg noodles with generous amounts of melted cheese, often Emmental or Bergkäse, and topped with crispy fried onions. This rich and satisfying meal embodies the simple yet flavorful nature of Alpine cuisine.
Why you will love Cheese Spaetzle?
Cheese Spaetzle is a dish that excels in its simplicity and the way it brings together robust flavors and satisfying textures.
- The key to its deliciousness lies in the fresh, tender Spaetzle noodles, which have a slightly chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the melted cheese.
- The cheese, often a combination of Emmental and Gruyère, adds a nutty, tangy richness that permeates the dish.
- Caramelized onions contribute a subtle sweetness and deep umami flavor, balancing the richness of the cheese and adding complexity to each bite.
Apply crispy fried onions for an additional layer of texture, making every forkful a harmonious blend of soft, creamy, and crunchy elements.
Serving Suggestions
With Caramelized Onions and Crispy Bacon – Topping Käsespätzle with slow-cooked caramelized onions and crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory depth to the dish. The onions provide a sweet contrast to the rich, melted cheese. The bacon offers a crunchy texture that enhances every bite. This variation is particularly popular in Swabia, where people serve it alongside a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
Served with a Side of Apple Compote – A classic combination in the Austrian Alps, serving Cheese Spaetzle with apple compote. This creates a delicious contrast between sweet and savory flavors. The tangy-sweet fruit sauce complements the creaminess of the melted cheese.The acidity of the apples also helps cut through the richness, making the meal feel less heavy.
Paired with a Light Green Salad – Since Cheese Spaetzle is a rich and cheesy dish, pairing it with a crisp, refreshing green salad helps to balance the meal. A simple salad made with fresh lettuce, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites, providing a contrast to the creamy noodles. Adding nuts, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds, enhances the texture and adds a nutty depth.
Perfect Pairings
Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat)
This light and refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, vinegar, dill, and a touch of sugar is an ideal side dish for Cheese Spaetzle. The crispness and acidity of the cucumbers cut through the richness of the cheese, providing a nice contrast. Dill adds a herbaceous note, while the slight sweetness balances the tangy flavors, making it a refreshing companion to the heavy main dish.
Braised red cabbage (Rotkohl)
Braised red cabbage is a traditional German side dish that pairs wonderfully with Cheese Spaetzle. One cooks the cabbage with apples, onions, vinegar, and spices until it’s tender and slightly sweet. The acidity from the vinegar and the sweetness from the apples create a balanced flavor that complements the rich and creamy Spaetzle, while the vibrant color adds visual appeal to the plate.
Green salad with vinaigrette
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent side dish to serve with Cheese Spaetzle. The fresh, crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Spaetzle, while the vinaigrette adds a tangy brightness that helps cleanse the palate. Adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, radishes, and nuts can add more texture and flavor, making the salad a well-rounded side.
Variations of Cheese Spaetzle
To make Cheese Spaetzle vegan is easy. Substitute the egg in the dough with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture, and use plant-based milk. Replace the cheese with vegan cheese, like cashew-based or soy cheese. Add caramelized onions for extra flavor, and top with crispy breadcrumbs for texture.
Cheese Spaetzle with bacon does pair wonderfully. The rich, creamy cheese complements the smoky bacon. It adds depth and savory flavor to the tender egg noodles. The combination creates a deliciously hearty and satisfying dish.
Cheese Spaetzle Casserole is a hearty dish made with soft, egg-based German noodles (spaetzle) layered with rich, melted cheese, typically Emmental or Gruyère.
What do you need to make Cheese Spaetzle?
Eggs
Eggs are crucial in binding the dough together, contributing to the richness and tenderness of the Spaetzle. They provide moisture and fat, which help create the soft, slightly chewy texture that is characteristic of Spaetzle. The eggs also give the noodles a rich yellow color and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Milk
Use milk to moisten the dough, making it easier to mix and creating a smoother consistency. It adds a slight creaminess to the Spaetzle, enhancing the texture and making the noodles softer. The fat content in the milk also contributes to the overall richness of the dish, complementing the eggs and flour.
Butter
Use butter for sautéing the onions and optional for finishing the dish. It adds a rich, creamy flavor and a luxurious mouthfeel. The butter also helps in caramelizing the onions. It contributes to their deep, sweet flavor. In the final dish, a bit of melted butter can add shine and an extra layer of richness.
Onions
Layer caramelized onions into the Spaetzle, adding a sweet, savory flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. Their umami depth enhances the overall taste of the dish. When caramelized, onions become soft and slightly sweet, which complements the creamy, tangy cheese, making the dish more complex and satisfying.
Cheese (Emmental/Gruyère)
The cheese is the star ingredient of Käsespätzle, providing the rich, gooey texture that makes the dish so comforting. Emmental and Gruyère are both excellent choices, offering a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that melts beautifully.
Nutmeg
Add nutmeg to the Spaetzle dough or sprinkled over the finished dish for a warm, aromatic flavor. It complements the richness of the cheese and butter, adding a subtle spice that enhances the overall taste.
Cheese Spaetzle step by step
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Create a well in the center and crack in the eggs. Add the milk and stir until the mixture forms a smooth, thick batter.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a Spaetzle maker or a colander with large holes, press the batter into the boiling water. Cook until the Spaetzle floats to the surface, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish or cast-iron skillet, layer the cooked Spaetzle with the caramelized onions and grated cheese. Start with a layer of Spaetzle, then onions, then cheese, and repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the top.
6. Remove from the oven, top with crispy fried onions (if using), and serve hot.
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Cheese Spaetzle
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 large onions thinly sliced
- 2 cups grated Emmental or Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg optional
- Crispy fried onions for topping, optional
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Create a well in the center and crack in the eggs. Add the milk and stir until the mixture forms a smooth, thick batter.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a Spaetzle maker or a colander with large holes, press the batter into the boiling water. Cook until the Spaetzle floats to the surface, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish or cast-iron skillet, layer the cooked Spaetzle with the caramelized onions and grated cheese. Start with a layer of Spaetzle, then onions, then cheese, and repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the top.
- Remove from the oven, top with crispy fried onions (if using), and serve hot.
One response to “Cheese Spaetzle”
Adore that cheese so much! 🧀🥰👍