Buttered Noodles Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Buttered Noodles to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table. This recipe is the very definition of simple: silky noodles tossed in rich, creamy butter (with a sprinkle of Parmesan and herbs if you like!), delivering pure, buttery bliss bite after bite. Buttered Noodles are the kind of no-fuss, feel-good food you turn to when time is short, cravings are strong, and you want something everyone will adore—kids and adults alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of pantry staples transform into this beautifully satisfying dish. Each ingredient plays a specific role, from the base of tender noodles to the finishing touches of cheese and herbs—proof that simplicity can also be absolutely delicious!
- Egg noodles (8 ounces): These classic noodles are perfect for holding the buttery sauce, but any pasta you have on hand will work beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): The heart of Buttered Noodles, delivering that velvety texture and rich flavor; use high-quality butter for the best results.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A touch adds subtle depth, but you can skip it for a pure butter flavor.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Season generously to bring all the flavors together and balance the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds a nutty, savory note that melts right into the noodles.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A sprinkle brings freshness and a pop of color to finish off the dish.
How to Make Buttered Noodles
Step 1: Boil the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Salt is absolutely key—it seasons the noodles from the inside out and makes a huge difference in the final flavor. Once the water is bubbling, add your egg noodles (or whatever pasta you’re using) and cook according to package instructions until perfectly tender. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook; you want that lovely, toothsome texture.
Step 2: Drain and Return
Once the noodles are cooked, drain them thoroughly. No one wants watery Buttered Noodles! Return them immediately to the pot or transfer to a large bowl, while they’re still piping hot. Heat is your friend here—it helps the butter melt and coat every strand.
Step 3: Add the Butter
Drop in the butter while the noodles are still warm. Toss and stir until every noodle glistens and the butter is fully melted and absorbed. If you’re using garlic powder, sprinkle it in now for just a whisper of garlicky goodness.
Step 4: Season and Toss
Season with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go to get it just right. For that extra something, add a generous handful of grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Give everything one last good toss so each bite bursts with buttery, cheesy flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Spoon generous helpings into bowls and serve immediately while still steaming hot. Buttered Noodles are at their absolute best when enjoyed warm, with a few final flakes of Parmesan or parsley if desired!
How to Serve Buttered Noodles
Garnishes
A handful of chopped parsley or a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan takes your Buttered Noodles from cozy to company-worthy in seconds. You can also add a pinch of cracked black pepper or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you’re craving a gentle kick.
Side Dishes
Buttered Noodles are wonderfully versatile. Serve them as the star with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. They also make a comforting sidekick for chicken, sausage, or pan-seared fish. Personally, I love pairing them with green peas or steamed broccoli—the buttery noodles play so nicely with a pop of green.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering your Buttered Noodles in a large serving bowl and topping with extra Parmesan shavings and a drizzle of browned butter for a sophisticated touch. For a quick upgrade, stir in cooked peas or shredded rotisserie chicken for a complete and hearty dish. You can even serve them family-style right in the pot for a casual, cozy meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Buttered Noodles (lucky you!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The noodles may soak up some butter as they sit, but a quick refresh on the stovetop or in the microwave will bring them right back to life.
Freezing
For best quality, Buttered Noodles are freshest when eaten right away, but you can freeze them if needed. Cool the noodles completely, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. To avoid mushiness, try undercooking the pasta just a tiny bit before freezing.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or an extra pat of butter to the noodles and warm them gently in a pan over low heat, stirring until hot and glossy. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can use any pasta you love or have on hand—spaghetti, fettuccine, or even short shapes like penne or rotini work deliciously.
Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, salted butter is perfectly fine and will add a bit more savory depth. Just taste before adding any extra salt to keep the balance just right.
Can I make Buttered Noodles dairy-free?
You can! Swap in your favorite plant-based butter and vegetarian Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that is just as comforting and flavorful.
How can I make this a main dish?
Turn Buttered Noodles into a satisfying dinner by adding cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, peas, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a wonderful base for leftover proteins or your favorite mix-ins.
What herbs and spices go well with Buttered Noodles?
Beyond parsley and garlic, feel free to try chives, basil, thyme, or a pinch of Italian seasoning. Lemon zest, crushed red pepper, or even a spoonful of pesto can add fabulous twists to the classic flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a recipe that brings happiness to every table, you simply can’t beat a generous serving of Buttered Noodles. It’s quick, cozy, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to leave everyone reaching for seconds—so grab those noodles and share a little buttery love tonight!
Print
Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Buttered Noodles are a simple and comforting dish tossed in butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Quick to make and versatile, they can be enjoyed as a side or a quick main course.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasoning:
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish (optional):
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Boil salted water and cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain well.
- Toss with Butter: While hot, return noodles to pot, add butter, and toss until melted and coated.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add Parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- This dish is a great side or quick main course.
- Enhance it by adding peas or cooked chicken.
- Use salted butter for more flavor, if preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
