Buttered noodles are like a warm hug on a plate, with their silky strands glistening under a buttery sheen that beckons you closer. The aroma of melting butter mingling with a hint of garlic fills the air, creating an irresistible invitation. Imagine twirling those tender noodles around your fork, each bite bursting with comfort and nostalgia.
Every time I whip up this dish, I’m reminded of family dinners where laughter echoed alongside the clinking of forks against plates. Buttered noodles have been a staple in my home since childhood, perfect for both cozy weeknights and festive gatherings alike. The simple joy of this dish is that it never fails to elicit smiles from loved ones as they savor that first creamy mouthful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These buttered noodles come together in mere minutes, making them a quick and satisfying meal option
- Their rich flavor profile is enhanced by just a few simple ingredients
- With a beautiful presentation, they can steal the spotlight on any dinner table
- Plus, their versatility allows for endless customization with meats or veggies
I still chuckle when I think about the first time I made buttered noodles for friends; they were so impressed by my “culinary skills,” not realizing how easy it was to prepare!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Egg Noodles: Opt for wide egg noodles for their hearty texture and ability to hold sauce well.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; it adds rich creaminess without overwhelming flavors.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder elevates the flavor profile without needing fresh garlic.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty depth; it’s worth the extra effort over pre-grated varieties.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste; adjust according to personal preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil the Noodles: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes.
Drain and Rinse: Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander. Rinsing them briefly under cool water helps prevent sticking; no one wants clumpy pasta!
Add the Butter: Return the drained noodles to the pot over low heat. Add generous pats of unsalted butter and stir until melted, enveloping every noodle in creamy goodness.
Season to Taste: Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper while stirring gently. Taste as you go; you want those flavors dancing together perfectly!
Add Parmesan Cheese: Finally, fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the warm noodles. The cheese should become slightly gooey and add richness to each bite.
Serve Immediately: Plate your buttered noodles while hot! Garnish with more Parmesan if desired or fresh herbs for added color and flavor contrast.
And there you have it—simple yet scrumptious buttered noodles that can be enjoyed on their own or as a delightful side dish! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Buttered noodles are a comfort food classic
- They are quick, simple, and can be dressed up or down
- The aroma of butter melting into pasta is pure magic, making it the perfect dish for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling salted water for your noodles. Cook them until al dente while simultaneously melting butter in a skillet. This multitasking will save you time and keep everything fresh.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the butter for olive oil or add garlic for an extra punch. You can also toss in veggies or protein to make it a heartier meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover buttered noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive their creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked noodles, always salt your boiling water generously—it enhances flavor significantly
- Stir the noodles occasionally to prevent sticking, and don’t forget to reserve some pasta water!
Cooking buttered noodles always brings back memories of my childhood when my mom would whip them up as a quick dinner after long school days.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta for buttered noodles?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well; just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.
What type of butter is best for this recipe?
Unsalted butter is ideal; it allows you to control the seasoning better.
How can I make this dish more nutritious?
Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra vitamins and fiber while keeping it delicious.
Buttered Noodles
Buttered noodles are the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, creamy taste that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. With their silky texture enveloped in melted butter and a hint of garlic, these noodles come together in just minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Customize easily by adding your favorite proteins or veggies for a heartier dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente (7-9 minutes).
- Drain the noodles and rinse under cool water to prevent sticking.
- Return the noodles to the pot over low heat, adding the unsalted butter; stir until melted.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the noodles.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
