Contents
Authentic German Käsespätzle (Cheese Spaetzle)
Käsespätzle is a traditional German dish from the Swabian region, featuring tender homemade egg noodles layered with rich Swiss cheese and topped with golden caramelized onions. This comforting and hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Spätzle (Egg Noodles):
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk or water
- 1 tablespoon butter (for tossing the cooked noodles)
For the Cheese and Onion Layer:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- A pinch of salt
- ½ cups (250 g) shredded Swiss cheese (such as Emmentaler, Jarlsberg, or Gruyère)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Caramelize the Onions:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 20–30 minutes.
- Halfway through, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of salt to enhance caramelization.
- Once the onions are deep golden brown and soft, remove them from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Spätzle:
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, eggs, and milk to form a sticky dough.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
- Using a Spätzle maker, potato ricer, or a colander with large holes, press the dough into the boiling water.
- Once the noodles float to the top (after 2–3 minutes), remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Toss the cooked Spätzle with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 1/3 of the Spätzle, followed by 1/3 of the shredded cheese, and 1/3 of the caramelized onions.
- Repeat the layers, ending with cheese and onions on top.
- Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly crispy around the edges.
Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or enjoy as a hearty main dish.
Notes
The Ultimate Comfort Food from Swabia
If you're a fan of cheesy pasta, caramelized onions, and cozy comfort food, then Käsespätzle (Cheese Spaetzle) is about to become your new favorite dish! This Swabian classic is often referred to as the German version of mac and cheese, but trust me, it’s so much better! 😍 Soft, chewy homemade Spätzle noodles, smothered in gooey melted Swiss cheese, and topped with golden, buttery caramelized onions—every bite is rich, savory, and absolutely irresistible! Let’s dive into this authentic German Käsespätzle recipe that brings a taste of Swabian tradition right to your table! 🍽️✨
🇩🇪 What is Käsespätzle?
Käsespätzle (pronounced KAY-zeh-shpetz-leh) is a beloved dish from southern Germany, particularly Swabia (a region that includes Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg). It's made by layering homemade egg noodles (Spätzle) with shredded Swiss cheese and crispy caramelized onions, then baking everything until it's hot and bubbly. 🤤 In many Swabian households (including mine!), Käsespätzle is the ultimate comfort food. Growing up in Stuttgart, this dish was always a special treat. My mother, originally from Bavaria but a Swabian at heart, made it just like the locals: rich, cheesy, and loaded with onions! If you love dishes like mac and cheese or French onion soup, you’re going to fall in love with Käsespätzle. 💛❓ FAQs & Tips for the Best Käsespätzle
🔹 Can I use store-bought Spätzle?Yes! If you’re short on time, pre-packaged Spätzle works fine. However, homemade is always best! 🔹 What cheese is best for Käsespätzle?
Traditional Käsespätzle uses Emmentaler or Jarlsberg, but I love adding Gruyère for a stronger flavor. Avoid using processed "Swiss cheese" from the grocery store—it won’t melt the same way. 🔹 How do I store & reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. 🔹 Can I make Käsespätzle ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions and prepare the Spätzle in advance. Simply assemble and bake when you're ready to serve.
🥨 More German Recipes to Try
🇩🇪 Authentic German Spätzle Recipe – Make your own noodles from scratch!🥨 Bavarian Soft Pretzels – The perfect snack with mustard & beer!
🍺 German Beer Cheese Soup – A creamy, cheesy delight!
✨ Final Thoughts
If you're looking for the ultimate German comfort food, Käsespätzle is it! It’s cheesy, buttery, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish for a cozy meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, Oktoberfest, or just craving some Swabian goodness, this recipe will not disappoint. ❤️ Give it a try and let me know—did you love it? 🥰👇 Guten Appetit! 🍽️✨More German recipes
