Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce Recipe

Quick & Cozy Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce Recipe for Beginners

German spaetzle dances between rustic comfort and sophisticated culinary craft, embodying a delightful tradition of homestyle cooking.

These unique hand-formed noodles represent a quintessential German comfort food that revolutionizes simple ingredients into something magical.

Soft, irregular shapes characterize these delicate egg-based morsels, which possess an inviting texture that captures rich, earthy flavors.

mushroom sauce elevates the humble noodles, creating a harmonious blend of robust umami and tender pasta.

Regional variations showcase the versatility of this beloved dish, demonstrating how peasant cuisine can become a gourmet experience.

Each bite tells a story of generations-old cooking techniques passed through family kitchens.

Hearty and satisfying, this classic combination promises a deeply nourishing meal that warms both body and soul.

Must-Have Ingredients for German Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce

Dough Base:
  • Flour: Essential base for spaetzle dough, all-purpose white flour works best.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the doughs taste.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Water, Milk, Eggs: Combine to create smooth, stretchy dough with right consistency.
Mushroom Sauce Components:
  • Butter: Provides rich base for sautéing and adds depth of flavor.
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic foundation that builds complex sauce flavor.
  • Mushrooms: Main protein and texture element of the sauce.
  • Flour: Helps thicken sauce and create smooth consistency.
  • Tomato Paste: Adds depth and slight acidity to sauce.
  • White Wine: Deglazes pan and introduces complex flavor notes.
  • Broth: Creates liquid base for sauce, adds savory undertones.
  • Cream (Optional): Provides luxurious, rich finish to sauce.
Seasonings:
  • Additional Seasonings: Enhance overall taste profile of the dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making German Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium mixing bowl and whisk together flour and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate container, whisk together:
  • Water
  • Milk
  • Eggs

Blend until the mixture becomes completely smooth.

Step 3: Create Spaetzle Batter

Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring thoroughly to prevent lumps.

Step 4: Beat Batter

Vigorously beat the batter until it becomes smooth, stretchy, and develops visible air bubbles (approximately 5 minutes of continuous mixing).

Step 5: Rest Batter

Let the batter rest for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Spaetzle

Use a spaetzle maker or scraper to drop small slivers of batter into the simmering water. Cook until spaetzle float to the surface.

Step 7: Remove Spaetzle

Carefully remove floating spaetzle with a slotted spoon and keep warm.

Step 8: Prepare Mushroom Base

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add:
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Mushrooms

Cook until vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 9: Create Sauce Foundation

Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring to combine. Add seasonings and tomato paste, mixing well.

Step 10: Deglaze Pan

Pour white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 11: Finish Mushroom Sauce

Pour in broth and let the mixture simmer until it thickens. Optional: Stir in cream for a richer texture.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the warm mushroom sauce generously over the freshly cooked spaetzle. Serve immediately and savor the delicious German-inspired dish!

Tips for Perfect German Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce

  • Master the Batter: Whisk the ingredients vigorously to create a smooth, stretchy consistency with visible air bubbles for lighter, more delicate spaetzle.
  • Perfect Simmering Technique: Drop small batter portions into gently simmering water, not boiling, to prevent tough, dense noodles.
  • Prevent Sticking: Use a wet spaetzle maker or scraper to help batter slide easily into the water, ensuring uniform, separate noodles.
  • Mushroom Flavor Boost: Sauté mushrooms until golden brown to develop deep, rich umami flavors before adding to the sauce.
  • Wine Deglazing Magic: Use a dry white wine to lift browned bits from the pan, adding complex layers of flavor to the mushroom sauce.

Storing and Reheating German Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce

  • Refrigeration: Store cooled spaetzle and mushroom sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate the pasta and sauce to prevent soggy noodles and maintain their delightful texture.
  • Reheating Method: Warm the spaetzle in a skillet with a splash of broth or water over medium heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking. For the mushroom sauce, use a saucepan and stir occasionally until heated through, adding a touch of broth if it seems too thick.
  • Freezing Option: Freeze the sauce and spaetzle separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, ensuring the best flavor and consistency when you're ready to enjoy your delicious German comfort food again.

Pairing German Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce with Meat Dishes

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a dry Riesling or Pinot Grigio to complement the earthy mushroom sauce and cut through the richness of the buttery spaetzle.
  • Match with Hearty Red Meat: Serve alongside roasted pork tenderloin or braised beef short ribs to create a robust German-inspired meal that balances the delicate pasta texture.
  • Add Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the dish to brighten the flavors and add a fresh, green contrast to the creamy mushroom sauce.
  • Serve with Tangy Side Salad: Create a light cucumber and dill salad dressed with vinaigrette to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, warm spaetzle and mushroom gravy.

Variations of German Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce

  • Alpine Herb Spaetzle: Enhance the batter by mixing in finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley for an aromatic mountain-inspired version.
  • Cheese-Loaded Spaetzle: Fold in grated gruyère or emmental cheese into the batter before cooking, creating a rich and creamy texture that melts beautifully.
  • Vegetable-Infused Spaetzle: Replace some liquid with pureed spinach or roasted red pepper to add color, nutrition, and an extra layer of flavor to the traditional recipe.
  • Gluten-Free German Noodle Option: Substitute wheat flour with a blend of rice flour and corn starch to make the spaetzle accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

German Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce: A Hearty Meal

  • Craft Comfort in Minutes: Quick homemade spaetzle with rich mushroom sauce delivers restaurant-quality German comfort food right in your kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into a hearty meal within an hour.
  • Texture Symphony: Perfectly tender, slightly chewy spaetzle noodles paired with velvety, umami-packed mushroom gravy create an irresistible combination of soft and creamy textures that dance on your palate.
  • Protein-Packed Pleasure: Delivering a substantial 20g of protein per serving, this dish offers a satisfying and nutritious meal that keeps you full and energized, making it ideal for cold evenings or post-workout recovery.
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Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce Recipe

Spaetzle with Mushroom Sauce Recipe


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4.9 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty German spaetzle dances with rich, earthy mushroom sauce in this classic comfort dish. Handmade egg noodles nestled in a creamy, herb-infused gravy will transport you straight to a traditional Alpine kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 lb button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups beef broth

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 0.33 cup water
  • 0.33 cup milk
  • 0.25 cup white wine or additional broth
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)

Seasoning and Additional Ingredients:

  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 0.25 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Gather a medium mixing bowl and whisk together flour and salt until evenly distributed, creating a uniform dry mixture.
  2. In a separate container, vigorously whisk water (236 milliliters / 8 fluid ounces), milk (118 milliliters / 4 fluid ounces), and eggs until completely smooth and well-integrated.
  3. Incrementally pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a consistent batter texture.
  4. Energetically beat the combined mixture for approximately 5 minutes, developing elasticity and incorporating air bubbles that will create light, tender spaetzle.
  5. Let the batter rest for half an hour, allowing gluten to relax and flavors to meld. Meanwhile, prepare a large pot with salted water, bringing to a gentle simmer.
  6. Using a specialized spaetzle maker or scraper, carefully drop small, irregular batter fragments into the simmering water, creating delicate noodle-like shapes.
  7. Watch for spaetzle to float to the surface, indicating they are cooked. Remove promptly with a slotted spoon and transfer to a warm serving dish.
  8. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized.
  9. Dust the vegetable mixture with flour, stirring to coat evenly. Incorporate seasonings and tomato paste, mixing thoroughly to develop rich, complex flavors.
  10. Deglaze the pan with white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape and release any caramelized bits from the skillet’s bottom.
  11. Pour in broth and allow the sauce to simmer, reducing and thickening. Optional: stir in heavy cream for a luxurious, velvety consistency.
  12. Generously ladle the aromatic mushroom sauce over the warm spaetzle, ensuring each serving is well-coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal temperature and texture.

Notes

  • Personalize your spaetzle journey by understanding the delicate balance between wet and dry ingredients.
  • Whisking techniques transform simple flour and eggs into a stretchy, airy batter that defines authentic German comfort food.
  • Resting the batter allows gluten to relax, creating tender noodle-like dumplings with perfect texture.
  • Simmering spaetzle requires patience: watch for floating indicators that signal perfectly cooked pasta droplets.
  • Mushroom sauce elevates this rustic dish from basic to gourmet with layered flavors of wine, herbs, and rich umami notes.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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