Authentic German Egg Noodles Recipe (Spätzle) – Easy Homemade Side Dish
Soft, chewy, and perfect with gravy or cheese — these authentic German egg noodles, known as Spätzle, are the ultimate comfort food. Whether served with schnitzel or as cheesy Käsespätzle, this homemade version is simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples.
What Are Spätzle (German Egg Noodles)?
Spätzle are small, rustic egg noodles from southern Germany, especially Swabia and Bavaria. Made with flour, eggs, and water or milk, the dough is pressed or scraped into boiling water. The result? Tender, slightly chewy noodles that soak up sauces beautifully.
Ingredients for Authentic Spätzle
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup (60–120ml) water or milk (as needed)
- Butter (for tossing the cooked noodles)
Optional: A pinch of nutmeg for traditional flavor
How to Make German Egg Noodles (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add eggs and begin mixing with a wooden spoon or hand mixer.
- Gradually add water or milk until the batter is thick and elastic, but still sticky (not runny).
- Let the dough rest for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Spätzle
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Use a Spätzle maker, colander, or spoon to press small portions of dough into the boiling water.
- Cook until the noodles float to the top (1–2 minutes), then scoop them out with a slotted spoon.
- Toss with butter to prevent sticking.
Tips for the Best Spätzle
- Don’t overmix the dough — it should be stretchy but not smooth like pasta dough.
- Use a Spätzle press, potato ricer, or even a box grater with large holes.
- Serve fresh or pan-fry leftovers with a bit of butter and onions.
Serving Suggestions
- With brown gravy and German Sauerbraten
- Topped with cheese and fried onions as Käsespätzle
- As a side dish to schnitzel, roast pork, or stews
- With mushroom or creamy sauces
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Spätzle?
Yes! Cool them completely and freeze in a single layer. Reheat by boiling or pan-frying.
How long do they last?
Store cooked noodles in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in a pan with a little butter.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes — use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though texture may vary slightly.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~220
Ingredients: (see above)
Instructions:
- Mix dough.
- Press into boiling water.
- Cook until floating.
- Toss in butter and serve.
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Similar Recipe:
1. Käsespätzle (Cheese Spätzle)
A beloved comfort dish often called “German mac and cheese,” where freshly boiled Spätzle is layered with caramelized onions and melted cheese.
2. Austrian Nockerl (Egg Dumplings)
Soft, fluffy dumplings made with eggs and flour, similar in texture to Spätzle, often served as a side dish with meat or gravy.
3. Swiss Älplermagronen
A hearty Alpine dish of pasta or Spätzle with cheese, potatoes, cream, and crispy onions—sometimes served with applesauce on the side.
4. Hungarian Nokedli
Almost identical to German Spätzle, these small dumplings are a staple in Hungarian cuisine, often served with paprikash or goulash.
5. Polish Kopytka (Potato Dumplings)
Soft dumplings made with potatoes and flour, boiled and served with butter, breadcrumbs, or sauces—similar comfort food vibes to Spätzle.
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