Isn’t there something magical about the simplest foods? The ones that warm your belly and soothe your soul without trying too hard? Buttered Noodles are exactly that kind of dish. They’re comfort in a bowl, the food version of a soft, cozy blanket after a long day. And if you think plain noodles can’t be exciting—trust me, this one’s a game-changer.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
We’re talking buttery, silky noodles with just the right touch of seasoning. It’s quick, unfussy, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your picky little sibling, your roommate after a long shift, or just yourself (because yes, you deserve that delicious solo dinner!), these buttered noodles will never let you down. Now let’s get into why you’re going to fall in love with this super simple yet totally crave-worthy dish.
Why You’ll Love Buttered Noodles
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Buttered Noodles
Here’s what makes this dish so irresistible—it’s made with humble ingredients you probably already have, but it turns into something you’ll crave again and again. Let’s break it down:
Noodles: Choose your favorite type—egg noodles work great here for their soft, silky texture, but feel free to experiment with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even bowties.
Butter: The real MVP. Butter gives this dish its luxurious, rich flavor. Use high-quality butter if you can—it really makes a difference.
Garlic (optional): A touch of minced garlic sautéed in butter adds depth and warmth to the dish without overpowering it.
Parmesan Cheese: Salty, nutty, and oh-so-delicious. It adds that savory finish and just a bit of indulgence.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning goes a long way here. Use freshly cracked pepper and sea salt for the best results.
Parsley (optional): A pop of green for freshness and color. It brightens everything up beautifully.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles until just tender. Don’t overcook—al dente is key for that perfect texture.
Drain and Reserve Some Pasta Water: Drain the noodles, but don’t forget to save a little pasta water! That starchy liquid can help blend everything together later.
Melt the Butter: In a large skillet or the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. If you’re using garlic, add it here and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
Toss the Noodles: Add the noodles to the melted butter and toss gently to coat. If it looks a little dry, add a splash of that reserved pasta water.
Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle in the Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good toss so each noodle gets coated in buttery, cheesy goodness.
Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm. That’s it! So easy, but SO satisfying.
How to Serve Buttered Noodles
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can totally dress it up if you’re feeling a little extra:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular pasta for gluten-free or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to [time duration]. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute egg noodles with another type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! You can use spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta you love. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can cook the noodles and mix with butter, then store in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove and add cheese before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Definitely! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or butter to refresh the texture. Microwave works too—just stir between intervals.
Q6: Can I add protein to this recipe?
A6: Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu go great with buttered noodles.
Q7: How can I make this dish healthier?
A7: Use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles, reduce the butter, and add steamed veggies for more nutrients.
Q8: Is it kid-friendly?
A8: Super kid-friendly! Just keep the seasonings simple and skip garlic if needed.
Q9: Can I make it dairy-free?
A9: Yes! Use plant-based butter and skip or sub the cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan alternative.
Q10: What herbs go well with this?
A10: Parsley, chives, or a tiny bit of thyme or basil add a beautiful fresh flavor.
And there you have it—your new go-to comfort dish! Buttered Noodles are proof that simple food can still feel like a celebration. Keep this one in your back pocket for those days when you want something warm, cozy, and totally satisfying. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Print
Buttered Noodles
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Buttered noodles are a simple yet comforting dish made with tender penne pasta, green beans, rich melted butter, garlic, and a generous sprinkle of Pecorino Romano. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy night in, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
-
2-3 cups penne pasta
-
1 cup green beans (chopped)
-
1 chicken bouillon cube
-
6 tbsp butter (cold, cubed)
-
1/4 tsp black pepper
-
1/4 tsp salt (optional, to taste)
-
3/4 cup Pecorino Romano (grated)
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
2 garlic cloves (minced)
-
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
-
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
-
While the water heats, cut green beans into small pieces and grate the Pecorino Romano cheese.
-
Once the water boils, add in the chicken bouillon cube, pasta, and green beans. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10 minutes or until pasta is fully cooked.
-
While pasta is cooking, heat a small pan over medium heat with olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
-
In the last couple of minutes of cooking the pasta, reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
-
Drain the pasta and beans, then return them to the pot over medium heat.
-
Pour the garlic-red pepper flake oil into the pasta and stir to coat.
-
Add half of the reserved pasta water and the cold butter. Stir quickly and vigorously to emulsify the butter into a glossy sauce.
-
Add the grated cheese and more pasta water as needed, stirring well. Finish with black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed.
Notes
-
For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or top with additional cheese.
-
You can substitute Pecorino with Parmesan if desired.
-
Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or leftover chicken for a heartier meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg