National Dish Switzerland: Alplermakronen (Recipe)
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Meet Alplermakronen, the hearty Alpine comfort dish that Swiss herders have relied on for generations. This soul-warming one-pot marries tender potatoes, curved macaroni and sweet onions in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Traditionally crowned with a spoonful of apple sauce, it strikes that irresistible savoury-sweet balance that has made it a firm favourite far beyond the mountains. Bring a taste of the Swiss Alps straight to your own kitchen.
About Alplermakronen
Alplermakronen are a true Swiss classic with roots high in the Alps. This savoury-sweet dish brings together potatoes, macaroni and onions in a delicate cream and cheese sauce. Its aromatic depth and rich, satisfying flavour have earned it a place not only as a beloved national dish but also as a treat for food lovers around the world. It is often served with apple sauce, which rounds off the flavour beautifully and makes for a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g elbow macaroni
- 300 g potatoes
- 1 large onion
- 200 ml cream
- 100 g grated cheese (such as Gruyère)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Apple sauce, to serve
Shopping for the ingredients
Before you start making your Alplermakronen, it is worth buying the freshest ingredients you can find. A visit to a local market or greengrocer is the best way to pick up top-quality potatoes and onions. The macaroni is usually easy to find in the pasta aisle of any supermarket. Do not forget to look out for good-quality cheese, as it plays a decisive role in the flavour of the finished dish.
Preparing the dish
Begin with a little preparation of your ingredients. Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes so they cook through evenly. The onion can be sliced into fine rings or pieces to release its full flavour into the dish. Meanwhile, you can already cook the macaroni in a large pan of boiling water until it is al dente.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the potatoes in a pan of salted water until soft.
- Heat the butter in a frying pan and sauté the onions until golden and translucent.
- Drain the macaroni and add it to the pan along with the cooked potatoes and onions.
- Pour in the cream and let everything simmer gently over low heat.
- Add the grated cheese and stir well until it has melted through.
- Season with salt and pepper, then let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Alplermakronen with a generous spoonful of apple sauce.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
If you would like to make a gluten-free version of Alplermakronen, simply use gluten-free pasta. These are now widely available in supermarkets and offer a very similar taste and texture. For a lactose-free preparation, replace the cream with a plant-based alternative such as oat or almond drink. The cheese can likewise be swapped for a lactose-free variety, so everyone can enjoy the dish.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegan Alplermakronen are easy to make by swapping the animal products for plant-based alternatives. Use coconut oil or another vegetable margarine in place of butter. The cream can be replaced with soya or cashew cream to keep that lovely creamy consistency. For the cheese, reach for vegan cheese, or leave it out altogether and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour instead.
More tips and tricks
There are plenty of ways to vary and adapt your Alplermakronen. Experiment with different cheeses, or add extra vegetables such as broccoli or spinach to make the dish even more wholesome. A pinch of nutmeg adds a special note and deepens the flavour. You can also play with herbs such as thyme or oregano to fine-tune the dish exactly to your liking. If you love that cheesy Alpine character, a bowl of Kaesefondue makes a wonderful follow-up.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Adjust the recipe as you please and make it your own! If you like bold, spicy flavours, add a little chilli or paprika. For a richer version, mix in some bacon or ham to give the dish a heartier note. Be creative and shape your Alplermakronen to suit your personal taste. Fans of the crispier potato tradition might also enjoy a plate of Roesti alongside.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient to hand, there are plenty of alternatives to fall back on. Sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes bring an interesting flavour of their own. The macaroni can be swapped for other shapes of pasta, much like the little dumplings in Chnoepfli. As for the onions, shallots or spring onions will give the dish a slightly different character.
Drink pairing ideas
A variety of drinks pairs wonderfully with Alplermakronen. A glass of light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, harmonises beautifully with the hearty dish. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try a homemade lemonade or a fruity iced tea. A strong tea can also be a lovely companion that underlines the flavours of the Alps.
Serving and presentation ideas
Thoughtful presentation can lift the whole experience. Serve the Alplermakronen in a large bowl and garnish with a few fresh herbs or a sprig of thyme. Use small dishes for the apple sauce and set one on each plate. Aim for colours that complement one another and create a warm, inviting table.
A bit of history
The story of Alplermakronen goes back to the Alpine regions of Switzerland, where herders prepared it as a nourishing meal. The combination of pasta, potatoes and cheese made sure that plenty of nutrients were packed into a single dish. Over the years, Alplermakronen grew into a much-loved staple of traditional Swiss cuisine and are widely regarded as comfort food. Countless regional variations exist, each reflecting the enduring food culture of Switzerland.
More recipe ideas
- Aelplermagronen
- Aelplermagronen Mit Apfelmus
- Toggenburger Chaeshoernli
- Kartoffel Lauch Suppe
- Zuercher Geschnetzeltes
Summary: Alplermakronen
Alplermakronen are a delicious, traditional dish that captures the flavours of the Swiss Alps in every bite. With their simple preparation and endless scope for personalisation, they are a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether after a hard day’s work or for a cosy dinner with friends, they will win over your heart and your palate. Give our recipe a try and enjoy a piece of Swiss tradition right in your own kitchen.
