This recipe for German Spaetzle has been passed down through the generations, directly from my grandparents who immigrated from Germany. Spaetzle is a favorite traditional dish which is really an egg noodle dumpling and boy is it delicious! It is also easy to make. You don't need any fancy equipment to make them! You can make them with a special spaghetti maker or using equipment you already have in your kitchen, like a colander.
Why our recipe?
- An authentic spaetzle recipe passed down through the generations.
- Make it with or without a spaetzle maker (we'll show you how to use a colander instead).
- Simple ingredients, and traditional methods produce perfect little egg noodle dumplings.
Spaetzle originated in the regions of Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Switzerland, but these little egg noodles are comfort food no matter where you're eating. Spaetzle noodles can be dressed like any other pasta with sauces and additional ingredients, or they can be served fried in a little butter. This is a versatile little dumpling that can be as fancy or simple as you like.
Material notes
- All-Purpose Flour: Bread flour will also work and you can experiment with different ratios of whole wheat and white flour. I don't recommend using more than half whole wheat flour.
- Fresh Parsley: A little color and a little smell. You can add more on top for garnish.
- Roasted Nutmeg: A small amount gives spaetzle its distinct flavor.
- Eggs: Standard grade AA will do the larger type.
- Milk: Whole milk is ideal, but 2% and 1% also work. You can even use milk substitute.
- Salted Butter: For finishing off our spaetzle to serve plain. If you use spaetzle with sauce, you can skip it.
Spatzel Makers
A spaetzle maker is a simple metal tool designed specifically for making spaetzle. It has holes that allow you to drop the batter directly into the boiling water, making small dumplings. You can easily find spaetzle makers the amazonYou don't need to make this recipe. You can use a colander or slotted spoon instead, both of which are common kitchen tools.
Makeshift Spaetzle Maker
If you don't have a spaetzle maker, don't worry! All you need to make perfect mini dumplings is a metal kitchen utensil. A colander, cheese grater plane or even a slotted spoon can do the job. Hold your tool of choice over a pot of boiling water and pour the spaetzle batter on top. Gently press the batter through the holes using the back of a spoon or ladle. This method creates the small, irregular shapes that make spaetzle so flavorful and delicious.
Serving suggestions
Spaetzle fried in butter is absolutely delicious, garnished with a bit of fresh parsley. You can serve it alongside classic German dishes Schnitzel, BratwurstOr really like any roast meat Roast beefour Apple-Glazed Roasted Pork Loinor Roast chicken. Spaetzle is also great for creamy sauces like ours Lemon Cream SauceA béchamelor Mushroom Gravy. You can even toss it with roasted veggies and bacon for a quick meal.
Storage and reheating instructions
Keep in fridge Leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
to coagulate, Spread the cooked spaetzle in a single layer on a baking sheet and set aside until firm. Then transfer to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and store for up to 3 months.
Reheat in a skillet Add a little butter to medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and lightly crispy.
Reheat in microwave Continue stirring, in 30-second increments, until heated through.
