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Käsespätzle is Germany’s comforting answer to mac and cheese. This traditional dish features tender, homemade spaetzle (German egg noodles) layered with melted cheese and topped with crispy fried onions. It's rich, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish at family gatherings.

Käsespätzle (German Cheese Spaetzle)

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  • Author: Jake
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Boiling and Baking
  • Cuisine: German
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Käsespätzle is a cozy and classic German dish featuring soft, homemade egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with golden caramelized onions. Perfect as a comforting main dish or a side, it’s Germany’s answer to mac and cheese!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Spaetzle:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

For the Topping:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups grated Emmental or Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the Spaetzle Dough:
    1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and nutmeg. Add the eggs and milk, mixing until you have a thick, smooth batter. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes.
  2. Cook the Spaetzle:
    1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a spaetzle maker, colander, or slotted spoon, press the dough through the holes directly into the boiling water.
    2. Cook until the noodles float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  3. Caramelize the Onions:
    1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes.
  4. Assemble the Käsespätzle:
    1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish. Layer the cooked spaetzle, grated cheese, and caramelized onions in the dish, repeating until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese.
  5. Bake:
    1. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve:
    1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • You can use pre-made spaetzle to save time.
  • Experiment with cheese varieties like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
  • Serve with a side salad or as a side dish for roasted meats.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg