Quick and Easy Traditional German Cheese Noodles Recipe

This traditional German dish, whose name translates to “cheese noodles,” is particularly popular in the Swabian region of Germany. Originally a peasant dish meant to utilize readily available ingredients, Schnelle Käsespätzle has evolved into a cherished comfort food appreciated by many around the world. The dish has a perfect combination of groovy, creamy cheese and soft, comforting dumplings, satisfying both your heart and your belly.

Ingredients:

300g all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
75ml water
1 teaspoon salt
100g grated Emmental cheese
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Prepare the Spätzle Dough: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until you achieve a smooth, thick dough. Let the dough rest for about 15 minutes.
Boil the Spätzle: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Using a Spätzle maker or a colander with large holes, press the dough into the boiling water. Cook until the Spätzle floats to the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then drain.
Cook the Onions: While the Spätzle is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply browned and caramelized. This will take about 10-15 minutes, and it's worth the wait! Remove half of the onions for garnish, and keep the rest in the skillet.
Combine and Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Add the boiled Spätzle to the skillet with the onions. Toss to combine and transfer the mixture into an oven-proof dish. Spread the grated Emmental cheese over the top and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the Käsespätzle from the oven and garnish with the reserved caramelized onions and chopped parsley. Best served hot.

Tip:

For a special touch, you can mix different varieties of cheese: Emmental gives this dish its distinctive flavor, but you can add some Gruyère or sharp white cheddar for some extra zest. Also, toasting the Spätzle in butter before adding the cheese brings out a beautiful nutty flavor.