This is the Swabian answer to mac and cheese, and it lives or dies on two things: a nutty melting alpine cheese and onions cooked past golden to true brown. Layer the hot spaetzle and grated cheese in turns so each handful melts on contact instead of clumping into a greasy knot.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep25 min
Cook20 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineGerman
Cost$
VegetarianGluten-free
Contains dairy
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Spaetzle
Fresh or dried egg spaetzle; the soft irregular noodle is the whole point.
Brown the onionsCook the sliced onions in butter over medium-low for 25 to 30 minutes until deep brown and jammy. Rushing them gray is the most common mistake.
Boil the spaetzleSimmer fresh spaetzle until they float, about two minutes, then drain but keep them hot.
Layer with cheeseIn a warm buttered dish alternate handfuls of hot spaetzle with grated cheese and nutmeg so each layer melts on contact.
Top and servePile the browned onions over the top and serve straight away while the cheese still stretches.
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Kasespatzle? — Not ideal
You can, but the crisp coating softens. Freeze the cooked pieces, then re-crisp them in a hot oven or air fryer — never the microwave.
Can you make Kasespatzle ahead of time? — Prep ahead
Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.
Is Kasespatzle gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Kasespatzle vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Community Notes
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