🇩🇪 Käsespätzle (German Cheese Spätzle)

Käsespätzle is a beloved German and Austrian comfort food often compared to mac and cheese. It features soft homemade egg noodles (Spätzle) layered with melted cheese and topped with crispy caramelized onions. It’s especially popular in Bavaria and the Swabian region of Germany.

Prep Time

• Prep: 30 minutes
• Cook: 25 minutes
• Total: About 55 minutes

Servings

6 servings

Ingredients

For the Spätzle

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 4 large eggs
• ¾–1 cup (180–240 ml) milk or water
• 2 tablespoons butter

Cheese Layer

• 2 cups shredded Emmental cheese
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Crispy Onions

• 3 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Pinch of salt

Garnish

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions

1. Make the Spätzle Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and nutmeg.
2. Add eggs and gradually mix in milk until a thick, sticky batter forms.
3. Beat the dough vigorously with a wooden spoon for 2–3 minutes until elastic and smooth.
4. Let rest for 10–15 minutes.

2. Cook the Spätzle

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
2. Press dough through a Spätzle maker, large-holed colander, or grater directly into the water.
3. Cook until the noodles float, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and toss with butter.

3. Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat butter and oil in a skillet.
2. Add sliced onions and salt.
3. Cook over medium-low heat for 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and sweet.

4. Assemble the Käsespätzle

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer Spätzle and cheese in a buttered baking dish.
3. Bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
4. Top generously with caramelized onions and fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad.
• Pair with German sausages such as Bratwurst.
• Enjoy alongside roasted meats and gravy.
• A cold German beer is a classic pairing.

Variations

🧄 Garlic Käsespätzle

Add roasted garlic or garlic butter to the noodles.

🥓 Bacon Käsespätzle

Add crispy bacon pieces between the layers.

🍄 Mushroom Käsespätzle

Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy version.

Tips for Perfect Käsespätzle

• Use a mix of flavorful cheeses—traditional versions often use Bergkäse, Emmental, or Gruyère.
• Freshly made Spätzle gives the best soft, chewy texture.
• Don’t rush the onions; slow caramelization creates the signature sweetness.
• For extra creaminess, add a splash of warm milk or cream before baking.