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German Spaetzle Recipe

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4.1 from 73 reviews

Traditional German Spaetzle recipe featuring tender, homemade egg noodles boiled and lightly sautéed in butter, served with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This quick and simple dish is perfect as a comforting side or a base for various sauces.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Spaetzle Dough

  • 2 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk

For Cooking and Serving

  • 3 Tablespoons butter
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Make spaetzle dough: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups flour and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs and 1/2 cup milk. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the egg and milk mixture. Stir until well combined into a thick batter.
  2. Boil spaetzle: Bring 2 quarts (8 cups) of water with 1 teaspoon salt to a boil in a large pot, then reduce heat to a simmer. Using a spaetzle maker, press the batter through into the simmering water. Cook the noodles for about 2 minutes or until they float to the surface, then remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a bowl of ice water. Repeat until all dough is cooked.
  3. Warm spaetzle: Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat until slightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain the spaetzle from the ice water and add them to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring gently to warm through and coat the noodles in butter.
  4. Serve: Transfer the warmed spaetzle to serving plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish or with your favorite sauce.

Notes

  • For a softer texture, avoid overmixing the dough; it should be thick but still pourable.
  • If you don’t have a spaetzle maker, use a colander or a large-holed grater to press the dough through.
  • Serving spaetzle with browned butter enhances the nutty flavor, but you can also toss them with herbs or cheese sauces.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet with a little butter.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling and Frying
  • Cuisine: German