5 Quick and Easy Packaged Spaetzle Recipes

Spaetzle, often likened to German noodles or dumplings, is an incredibly versatile dish that can be transformed into various meals, from comforting to gourmet. While you can make spaetzle from scratch, using packaged spaetzle greatly simplifies the cooking process, offering you more time to explore different flavors and preparations. Here, we present five quick and easy recipes using packaged spaetzle that will enrich your culinary repertoire:

1. Cheesy Spaetzle with Caramelized Onions

Spaetzle and cheese are a match made in heaven, especially when paired with the sweet complexity of caramelized onions.

• 1 package of spaetzle
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 cup of grated cheese (Emmental, Gouda, or Swiss work well)
• Salt and pepper to taste

🔥 Note: Caramelizing onions can take up to 45 minutes, so plan your cooking time accordingly.

Steps:

1. Cook spaetzle according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. Heat butter in a pan, add onions, and cook over low heat until they are a rich, golden brown.
3. Combine the cooked spaetzle with onions, sprinkle with cheese, and cook until cheese melts.
4. Season to taste, and serve warm.

2. Spaetzle with Herb Butter and Lemon Zest

Infuse simple spaetzle with the bright flavors of herbs and the freshness of lemon for an elegant side dish or light meal.

• 1 package of spaetzle
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and chives)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

🌿 Note: Fresh herbs make a significant difference in this dish. If you must use dried herbs, reduce the amount by half.

Steps:

1. Cook spaetzle as directed. While it cooks, melt butter in a separate pan.
2. Add finely chopped herbs and lemon zest to the butter, stirring to combine.
3. Drain the spaetzle, toss it in the herb butter, and season.

3. Spaetzle with Mushroom Cream Sauce

Rich, earthy mushrooms combined with a creamy sauce make this an indulgent treat.

• 1 package of spaetzle
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (any variety)
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/4 cup of white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Prepare spaetzle according to the package.
2. In a pan, sauté mushrooms and shallot in oil or butter until they soften.
3. Add wine (if using) and reduce, then pour in the cream and let it simmer to thicken.
4. Mix in the cooked spaetzle, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

4. Crispy Spaetzle Salad with Pancetta

A unique way to enjoy spaetzle is by transforming it into a crispy component in a salad, adding delightful texture.

• 1 package of spaetzle
• 100g pancetta or bacon, diced
• 1 cup of arugula or mixed greens
• 1/4 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• Balsamic vinegar for dressing
• Extra virgin olive oil

Steps:

1. Cook spaetzle, drain, and then fry it in a skillet until crispy.
2. In another pan, cook pancetta until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. Arrange greens, tomatoes, crispy spaetzle, and pancetta on plates.
4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

5. Sweet and Savory Spaetzle with Apples and Sage

Combine the warmth of apples and sage with the unique texture of spaetzle for a sweet-savory dish that’s perfect for fall.

• 1 package of spaetzle
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 10 fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 cup of apple cider or apple juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Cook spaetzle as instructed, then set aside.
2. Melt butter in a pan, add sage leaves, and cook until crispy, then remove.
3. Add apple slices to the butter and cook until tender. Pour in apple cider, reduce slightly.
4. Return spaetzle to the pan, mix, season, and serve with fried sage on top.

Each of these recipes harnesses the versatility of packaged spaetzle, making it easy to create delightful dishes with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, a gourmet side, or a unique twist on a salad, spaetzle can be adapted to suit your culinary adventures. This array of recipes not only provides variety in flavors but also introduces different cooking techniques, ensuring that you can explore various culinary styles from the comfort of your home.

Can you substitute ingredients in spaetzle recipes?

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Absolutely! You can adapt many spaetzle recipes to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For example, if a recipe calls for cream, you might use a non-dairy alternative like oat or almond milk for a lighter version.

How long does packaged spaetzle last?

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Typically, packaged spaetzle has a shelf life of about 6-12 months if stored in a cool, dry place. Always check the ‘best before’ date on the packaging for the most accurate information.

Where can I find different varieties of spaetzle?

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Specialty grocery stores, European markets, or online retailers often carry various types of spaetzle, from traditional to gluten-free or flavored options.

Are there vegan options for spaetzle?

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Yes, you can make or find vegan spaetzle using egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers to make the dough.