Gabriele'S Fried Ham And Cheese Spatzle
Gabriele's Fried Ham and Cheese Spätzle offers a comforting, cheesy dish with savory ham and caramelized onions, perfect for hearty family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spätzle according to package instructions; drain off the water.
- Chop the onion and ham.
- Fry the chopped onion and ham in butter or margarine for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked spätzle and fry until they are browned.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the grated Swiss cheese and let it melt.
- Serve with any type of salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of butter and olive oil to fry the onion and ham. If you want to reduce fat, you can use turkey ham or a lower-fat cheese. Spice it up with a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. If spätzle is unavailable, you can substitute with cooked egg noodles or gnocchi.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty main course alongside a fresh salad, such as a mixed greens salad or Cucumber Potatoes for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs beautifully with a side of Dutch Hot Potato Salad for a fulfilling meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, covered, to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gabriele'S Fried Ham And Cheese Spatzle contains roughly 301 calories, with 12g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 896mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and using a vegetarian cheese option. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If Swiss cheese isn't available, you can use Gruyère or Emmental cheese for a similar flavor. For a sharper taste, consider using aged cheddar or pepper jack cheese, which will also add a nice kick.
How can I make spätzle from scratch?
To make spätzle from scratch, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 tsp of salt, 3 large eggs, and enough water to form a thick batter. Use a spätzle maker or a colander to drop the batter into boiling water, cooking until they float. This homemade version can add a personal touch to your dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).