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Käsespätzle, or German Cheese Spaetzle, is a classic comfort dish combining tender spaetzle noodles, rich melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions. Often referred to as the German version of mac and cheese, this hearty dish is perfect as a main course or a flavorful side. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, Käsespätzle is always a crowd-pleaser.
What Makes Käsespätzle Special
Käsespätzle stands out for its balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The homemade spaetzle noodles offer a tender, chewy texture, while the mix of Gruyere and Emmentaler cheeses creates a gooey, nutty richness. Caramelized onions elevate the dish with their deep sweetness, making every bite irresistible. It's simple yet sophisticated comfort food that highlights the best of German culinary traditions.
Ingredients for Käsespätzle
- Spaetzle: Homemade or store-bought, made with flour, eggs, milk (or water), and a touch of nutmeg for flavor.
- Cheese: Gruyere and Emmentaler for creamy and nutty flavors; sharp cheddar or Jarlsburg can be added for variety.
- Onions: Yellow or brown onions, caramelized slowly for sweetness.
- Butter: Used for caramelizing onions and tossing with the spaetzle.
- Parsley (optional): For garnish and a fresh pop of color.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): Toasted in butter for a crispy topping.
How to Make Caramelized Onions
- Slice the Onions
- Thinly slice yellow or brown onions. They'll shrink significantly during cooking, so don't skimp on the amount.
- Cook Slowly
- In a pan over low heat, melt butter and add the sliced onions. Stir occasionally, allowing them to cook down slowly without burning. Add a pinch of salt to draw out moisture and enhance flavor.
- Achieve Golden Perfection
- Caramelize the onions until they reach a deep golden-brown color. This process takes about 45 minutes but is essential for developing their sweet, complex flavor.
Preparing the Spaetzle
Making spaetzle from scratch is simple but rewarding. Combine flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of nutmeg to form a smooth batter. Press the batter through a spaetzle maker or colander into boiling salted water. Cook until the noodles float, then drain and toss with butter to prevent sticking. If using store-bought spaetzle, boil according to package instructions and prepare as above.
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Assembling and Baking
Layer the cooked spaetzle in a greased casserole dish, tossing it with melted butter. Add grated cheese generously on top, followed by the caramelized onions. For a deeper casserole, alternate layers of spaetzle, cheese, and onions. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Allow to rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Variations and Storage Tips
For a smoky twist, add diced bacon or pancetta to the onions while caramelizing. Create a rich Jägerspätzle variation by topping the dish with a savory mushroom gravy. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Käsespätzle also freezes well; prepare the dish up to the baking step, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of cheese works best?
A combination of Gruyere and Emmentaler is traditional, but any good melting cheese will work. Sharp cheddar or Jarlsburg are good alternatives. Look for high-quality imported Swiss cheeses for authentic flavor.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for making ahead. You can prepare multiple casseroles and freeze them for later. Reheat when needed for a convenient meal.
- → Why do the onions take so long to caramelize?
Proper caramelization requires low, slow cooking (about 45 minutes) to develop deep flavor and golden color. This process can't be rushed without sacrificing taste and texture.
- → Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, common variations include adding bacon or topping with buttered breadcrumbs. You can also make Jägerspätzle by adding mushroom gravy for an even richer dish.
- → What's the best type of onion to use?
Yellow or brown onions are best for caramelizing as they develop the most flavor during the slow cooking process.
Conclusion
This traditional German dish combines freshly made spaetzle (egg noodle dumplings) with Emmentaler and Gruyere cheese, topped with slow-caramelized onions and baked until bubbly. A hearty comfort food that can be customized with additions like bacon or mushroom gravy.