Spaetzles
Delicate and fluffy spaetzles with a tender texture, perfect as a side dish or main course, pairing well with rich sauces or hearty stews. Ideal for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add milk, salt, and mix well.
- Gradually add sifted flour and stir until smooth.
- Bring a 5-quart pot of water to a boil.
- Use a spoon or a sharp knife to cut small spaetzles into the boiling water.
- Cook for about 10 minutes until they float to the surface.
- Drain the spaetzles and add butter or oleo before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For light and fluffy spaetzles, ensure you don't overmix the batter once the flour is added; a few lumps are okay. If you need a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor. You can also replace milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spaetzles tossed in melted butter or oleo for a simple dish, or pair them with rich sauces, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. They also complement hearty meats like chicken or pork, making them a versatile side. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside dishes like Obazd'N or even a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spaetzles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet with a bit of butter over medium heat until warmed through, or briefly steam them to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving as they can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaetzles contains roughly 524 calories, with 9g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 spaetzles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spaetzle batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to cook them fresh for the best texture. If you want to make them ahead and freeze, cook them first, then freeze in a single layer and store in a bag. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
What can I serve with spaetzles?
Spaetzles are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. They are excellent with creamy sauces, sautéed greens, or simply coated in butter. For a complete meal, serve them alongside grilled meats or a hearty stew. They also work wonderfully with vegetarian recipes for a meatless option.
How do I know when spaetzles are done cooking?
Spaetzles are cooked once they float to the surface of the boiling water, usually within about 10 minutes. You can taste one to check for doneness; it should be tender but not mushy. If they don't float after 10 minutes, give them a little more time.
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).