German egg noodles layered or tossed with cheese and crispy fried onions.

Käsespätzle (Cheese Spätzle)

Germany's beloved version of mac and cheese: soft, irregular egg noodles layered or tossed with sharp cheese (typically Emmental or Gruyère) and topped with crispy fried onions. Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For Spätzle:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated preferred)
• 2 large eggs

• 3/4 cup milk or water (approximately)

• For Assembly:

• 4 tbsp butter (divided)

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 6-8 oz grated cheese (Emmental, Gruyère, Swiss, or a mix)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Make Spätzle Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and nutmeg. Make a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well. Gradually add milk/water while mixing from the center outwards with a wooden spoon or whisk until a smooth, thick, slightly stretchy batter forms. Beat the batter vigorously for a few minutes until bubbles start to appear (this incorporates air).
2. Cook Spätzle: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Use a Spätzle maker, a colander with large holes, or the back of a cutting board and knife/scraper to press or scrape small bits of batter into the boiling water. The Spätzle are cooked when they float to the surface (usually 1-2 minutes). Remove cooked Spätzle with a slotted spoon and transfer to a colander to drain well (you can shock them in cold water briefly if not assembling immediately, then drain again).
3. Fry Onions: While water heats or Spätzle cooks, melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until deeply golden brown and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Assemble: Wipe out the skillet (or use an oven-safe dish if baking). Melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the drained Spätzle and toss to coat.
5. Skillet Method: Reduce heat to low. Add about half the grated cheese and stir until melted. Add the remaining cheese and continue stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Layered/Baked Method: In an oven-safe dish, layer half the Spätzle, half the cheese. Repeat. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
7. Serve: Top the Käsespätzle generously with the crispy fried onions and garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve immediately.

### What makes it special?:*

Käsespätzle is the ultimate German comfort food. The combination of tender, homemade egg noodles, sharp melted cheese, and sweet, crispy onions is incredibly satisfying and flavorful. It's a hearty dish perfect as a main course or a substantial side."