This quick and comforting buttered noodles recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal in just 15 minutes.
Packed with protein from Parmesan and healthy fats from butter, it’s both nourishing and delicious.
Herb-infused and versatile, it’s perfect for everyday dinners, meal prep, or a cozy weeknight treat that’s easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
Perfect Buttered Noodles
Equipment
- Medium pot
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 ounces 226 g egg noodles or pasta of choice
- ½ tablespoon salt for boiling water
- 2 ounces 60 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons 42 g unsalted butter
- Handful fresh herbs basil, parsley, or chives, chopped or torn
- Freshly ground black pepper for serving
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta Water: Fill a medium-sized pot with enough water to comfortably cook your noodles, leaving space for stirring. Place it on the stove over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 1/2 tablespoon of salt. This seasons the pasta as it cooks, enhancing its flavor from the start.
- Cook the Noodles to Al Dente: Add your 8 ounces of egg noodles (or pasta of your choice) to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook the noodles for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This ensures that the noodles are slightly undercooked, allowing them to finish cooking later when combined with the sauce, absorbing more flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water and Drain: Before draining, carefully scoop out 1 cup of the hot pasta water and set it aside. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later. Then, drain the noodles thoroughly using a colander. Return the drained noodles to the same pot you cooked them in; keeping them warm in the pot helps them absorb the sauce better.
- Combine Butter, Cheese, and Pasta Water: Add 3 tablespoons of butter and 2 ounces of grated Parmesan cheese directly to the hot noodles. Pour in 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Set the pot over very low heat. Using a pair of tongs, gently toss the noodles with the butter and cheese, ensuring every strand is coated evenly. Continue tossing for about one minute until the mixture becomes glossy and creamy.
- Let the Sauce Rest: Remove the pot from heat and cover it with a lid. Allow the noodles to sit for one minute. This resting period lets the pasta absorb the sauce further, enhancing the creamy texture and melding the flavors together.
- Final Toss and Adjust: Remove the lid and toss the noodles a few more times with the tongs. Check the consistency if the noodles seem dry, add a small splash of the remaining reserved pasta water, tossing again to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. If the noodles seem wet, don’t worry—they will absorb the extra moisture as they cool slightly.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Gently fold in a handful of chopped or torn fresh herbs, such as basil, parsley, or chives. Herbs brighten the dish and add fresh aroma and color. Taste the noodles and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
- Serve with Finishing Touches: Plate the buttered noodles immediately. Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot as a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish for family meals, or a comforting solo meal. The noodles are now perfectly creamy, cheesy, and herb-infused.
- Optional Step: Garlic Butter Variation: For an extra flavor boost, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat and add 1 minced garlic clove. Cook until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, then toss this garlic butter with the noodles in place of the regular butter. The result is an irresistible garlic-infused variation of the classic buttered noodles.
Notes
- Use pasta water to create a creamy sauce without adding extra cream.
- Undercook noodles slightly to ensure they absorb the sauce perfectly.
- Fresh herbs enhance flavor and color; adjust quantities to taste.
- Butter quality impacts the final flavor—unsalted European-style butter works best.
- Parmesan can be substituted with Pecorino Romano, Gruyere, or sharp cheddar.
- For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or goat cheese.
- Garlic butter adds depth and aroma for a flavorful twist.
- Toss gently to avoid breaking delicate noodles.
- Serve immediately for best texture, as noodles absorb sauce over time.
- Leftovers can be refreshed with a splash of pasta water or a small pat of butter.
Chef’s Secrets To Perfect Noodles
The key to creating flawless buttered noodles lies in controlling both heat and timing.
Start by cooking your pasta just shy of al dente; this ensures it finishes cooking in the sauce, allowing the flavors to penetrate each strand.
Using reserved pasta water is another secret—its natural starches thicken the sauce and bind the cheese and butter without extra cream.
Invest in a high-quality butter and freshly grated Parmesan, as pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Finally, fold in herbs gently and off-heat to preserve their delicate aroma and vibrant color.
Serving Suggestions For Maximum Flavor
Buttered noodles are incredibly versatile, making them perfect as both a main dish and a side.
Serve them alongside roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or pan-seared fish for a complete meal.
Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an earthy flavor boost, or top with toasted pine nuts for a subtle crunch.
Freshly cracked black pepper and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving elevate the dish, creating a restaurant-quality presentation that’s simple yet indulgent.
Storage Tips For Best Freshness
Leftover buttered noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To prevent clumping or dryness, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a small knob of butter before reheating.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals, stirring frequently.
Avoid overcooking during reheating, as this can make the noodles mushy.
If freezing, use freezer-safe containers and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, adding a little butter or water to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta instead?
Yes! Gluten-free pasta works well, though cooking times may vary. Follow package instructions, and slightly undercook to ensure it absorbs the sauce properly without becoming mushy.
2. What herbs work best in this recipe?
Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives are ideal for their bright flavors and aroma. You can experiment with tarragon or thyme for a more aromatic variation. Always fold herbs in at the end to preserve color and taste.
3. Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute butter with plant-based spreads and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese. Toss gently to create a creamy, flavorful alternative that maintains the essence of the dish.
4. How do I avoid clumpy noodles?
The key is tossing noodles with the sauce gently and adding reserved pasta water gradually. Ensure the noodles are hot when adding butter and cheese so the ingredients melt evenly, coating each strand.
5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best prepared fresh for optimal texture. If preparing ahead, slightly undercook the pasta and store the sauce separately. Combine and reheat gently before serving, adding a little pasta water or butter to revive creaminess.
