Homemade Spaetzle Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food

Spaetzle, a beloved German dish, is a type of small, soft egg noodle or dumpling. This comforting and versatile dish is made from a simple dough of eggs, water, and flour, creating tender, chewy morsels that pair beautifully with sauces, gravies, or even a touch of browned butter. Spaetzle is incredibly satisfying and easy to make, even for beginner cooks.

Whether you’re recreating a traditional family meal or trying your hand at international cuisine, this homemade spaetzle recipe will not disappoint. Follow along to learn how to make this timeless dish step-by-step, along with expert tips to perfect your spaetzle-making technique.

Ingredients for Spaetzle

This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a delicious, homemade batch of spaetzle:

Dough Ingredients

2 large eggs
½ cup water
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ tsp salt
¼ tsp baking powder

For Cooking and Finishing

Salted water (for boiling)

Butter (cold) (for pan-frying, optional)

How to Make Spaetzle

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Beat the eggs: In a medium mixing bowl, lightly beat the eggs until smooth. Add the water and stir to combine.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the egg and water mixture, stirring until you achieve a thick, smooth batter. The consistency should be slightly sticky but pliable.

Step 2: Cook the Spaetzle

Bring water to a boil: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a gentle boil.
Drop the dough into the water: Using a teaspoon, scoop small bits of dough and drop them into the boiling water. Alternatively, use a spaetzle maker or colander with large holes for faster shaping.
Cook until spaetzle rises: The dough pieces will rise to the surface almost immediately. Allow them to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Drain and repeat: Remove the cooked spaetzle with a slotted spoon and transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 3: Pan-Fry (Optional)

Melt butter: In a large skillet, melt a few tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Brown the spaetzle: Add the boiled spaetzle to the skillet in batches, ensuring they are evenly spread out. Fry until lightly golden on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Serve immediately: Pan-fried spaetzle is ready to serve! Alternatively, you can serve the boiled spaetzle as is, straight from the pot.

Tips for Making Perfect Spaetzle

Adjust Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too thick, add a small amount of water (1 tablespoon at a time). If it’s too thin, mix in a bit more flour.
Use the Right Tools: A spaetzle maker, slotted spoon, or colander can help you create uniform pieces. However, a teaspoon works just fine for a rustic look.
Don’t Crowd the Pot: Cook the spaetzle in batches to prevent them from sticking together.
Cool Quickly for Later Use: If making spaetzle ahead of time, plunge the boiled noodles into an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain well and refrigerate until needed.
Experiment with Seasonings: Add herbs like parsley or nutmeg to the dough for a flavor twist.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

1. Cheese Spaetzle (Käsespätzle)

Layer spaetzle with shredded cheese (like Emmental or Gruyère) and caramelized onions. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. Herbed Spaetzle

Incorporate finely chopped parsley, chives, or dill into the dough for a fresh, vibrant flavor.

3. Serve with Sauces

Spaetzle pairs wonderfully with creamy mushroom sauce, hearty beef stew, or a rich tomato-based gravy.

4. Crispy Spaetzle

Pan-fry boiled spaetzle until they’re golden and crispy, and serve as a side dish to roasted meats or sausages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make spaetzle without a spaetzle maker?

Yes! A colander with large holes, a potato ricer, or even a sturdy slotted spoon can be used to press the dough into boiling water. If none of these are available, drop small bits of dough into the water using a teaspoon.

2. How do I store leftover spaetzle?

Cooked spaetzle can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sauté in a bit of butter until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze spaetzle?

Yes, boiled spaetzle freezes well. Spread the cooked spaetzle on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen by boiling or pan-frying.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

The dough is best used immediately, but you can refrigerate it for up to 1 hour before cooking. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

5. Why does my spaetzle taste bland?

Ensure your boiling water is well-salted—it should taste like the sea. This step is crucial for flavoring the noodles.

6. What can I serve with spaetzle?

Spaetzle is versatile! Pair it with schnitzel, roasted chicken, beef goulash, or even a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Homemade spaetzle is an easy and rewarding dish that can complement a variety of meals or stand on its own as a star attraction. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this traditional German recipe has been loved for generations. Enjoy your spaetzle-making adventure! 🥘