What to Serve With Spaetzle? 15 Delicious Side Dishes

When it comes to traditional German cuisine, spaetzle is a popular dish that's both comforting and satisfying. This egg noodle dish can be served in a variety of ways, from a simple butter and cheese preparation to a hearty beef stroganoff. However you choose to serve your spaetzle, the right side dish can add extra flavor and texture, elevating your meal to new heights.

From roasted Brussels sprouts to cabbage rolls and beef goulash, we'll cover a range of options that will complement the flavors of your spaetzle perfectly. Whether you're looking for something simple or a more complex dish, you're sure to find some inspiration here. So let's dive in and discover some delicious and easy side dishes that will make your spaetzle even more special.

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The best side dishes to serve with spaetzle are red cabbage, pork schnitzel, bratwurst, or borscht if you are looking for a classic pairing. For some less traditional options, you can eat spaetzle with sauteed zucchini and summer squash, chicken and mushrooms, or carrot fries.

Now, let’s get cooking!

Sides For Spaetzle

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Including them as a side dish with spaetzle can help balance the meal and add some nutritional benefits. Additionally, the caramelization that occurs during roasting also adds a touch of sweetness to complement the savory flavors of the spaetzle.

2. Red Cabbage

Red cabbage is a traditional side dish often served with spaetzle and other German dishes, so pairing them together can enhance the overall cultural experience of the meal. The acidity of the cabbage helps cut through the richness of creamy spaetzle dishes. And it adds a vibrant pop of color to the plate, which can make the meal more visually appealing.

3. Pork Schnitzel

Pork schnitzel and spaetzle are often served together in German cuisine. Both dishes are relatively quick and easy to prepare, making them a convenient option for a weeknight meal. Additionally, Pork schnitzel can be served with a variety of sauces, such as a lemon-butter sauce or a mushroom gravy, which can elevate the spaetzel.

4. Sauteed Kale

This sauteed kale makes a healthy and colorful addition to your meal. While delicious and hearty, spaetzle doesn't offer much in the way of nutritional value. Kale, on the other hand, is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. It also makes for a stunning pop of color in an otherwise beige dish.

5. Bratwurst

Another classic pairing with spaetzle is these flavorful and fulfilling bratwursts or brats. Bratwurst can be served in a variety of ways, such as grilled, boiled, or pan-fried, making it a versatile dish that can be adapted to the meal.

6. Borscht

Borscht is a traditional soup that originated in Eastern Europe. It's made with beets, carrots, onions, potatoes, and cabbage, as well as some form of protein. The earthy nature of the borscht complements the mild, nutty flavor of spaetzle, making them an excellent combination

7. Sauteed Green Beans

These sauteed green beans add freshness, color, and texture to the meal when served with spaetzle. They also provide added nutrition, as green beans are low-calorie vegetables that are high in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Additionally, they can be seasoned with a variety of different herbs and spices that complement the meal overall.

8. Beef Goulash

Beef goulash is a classic Hungarian stew made with chunks of beef that are slowly cooked with onions, tomatoes, sweet paprika, and other spices until tender. While it is typically served with a side of potatoes or dumplings, goulash also pairs exceptionally well with spaetzle because both are hearty and comforting dishes that are perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal.

9. Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage rolls can be made with different types of fillings and seasonings, making them a versatile side dish that can be customized to suit different tastes or to further enhance the flavors of the spaetzle. They are typically stuffed with ground meat, rice, and spices, which adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor to complement the mild, nutty flavor of spaetzle nicely.

10. Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a classic Russian dish that consists of tender beef strips, mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sour cream sauce. This makes it the perfect dish to serve with spaetzle. The rich and savory flavor of beef stroganoff pairs well with the mild, nutty flavor of spaetzle, and the sour cream sauce adds a nice tangy flavor to the dish.

11. Chicken Paprikash

Chicken paprikash is a Hungarian dish that features tender chicken in a rich and creamy paprika sauce. The paprika in the sauce adds a nice smoky and slightly spicy flavor to the dish while also providing a nice contrast in texture to the slightly chewy spaetzle. Both dishes are hearty and comforting and, when paired together, create a cozy and satisfying meal.

12. Carrot Fries

Pairing spaetzle with a vegetable side like these carrot fries helps to create a well-rounded and balanced meal. Carrots are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to spaetzle. They also provide a nice contrast in texture to the slightly chewy spaetzle.

13. Steamed Asparagus

Steaming asparagus is a quick and easy way to prepare this vegetable, and it can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to complement the flavors of the spaetzle. Additionally, pairing spaetzle with asparagus can help create a well-rounded and balanced meal, as asparagus is full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

14. Chicken and Mushrooms

Serving this chicken and mushrooms recipe with spaetzle creates a hearty and comforting meal that is full of flavor. Chicken is a good source of protein, while mushrooms provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Together with the carbohydrates from spaetzle, they can provide a balanced and satisfying meal.

15. Sauteed Zucchini and Summer Squash

Sauteed zucchini and summer squash is a quick and easy side dish that can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to complement the flavors of the spaetzle. Additionally, the bright colors of the zucchini and summer squash can add a pop of color to the plate, making this dish as stunning as it is delicious.

Spaetzle Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Red Cabbage
• Pork Schnitzel
• Sauteed Kale
• Bratwurst
• Borscht
• Sauteed Green Beans
• Beef Goulash
• Cabbage Rolls
• Beef Stroganoff
• Chicken Paprikash
• Carrot Fries
• Steamed Asparagus
• Chicken and Mushrooms
• Zucchini and Summer Squash