If you’re searching for a comforting, quick, and flavorful pasta dish, look no further than this Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels both nostalgic and indulgent, bringing tender egg noodles bathed in savory broth, butter, and garlic, all finished with a luscious sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This recipe is uncomplicated yet wonderfully satisfying, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you just want a no-fuss meal that tastes like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient is thoughtfully selected to build layers of buttery, garlicky goodness, while contributing to the dish’s creamy texture and bright flavor notes.
- 12 oz egg noodles: The star of the dish, these noodles cook perfectly in broth to absorb flavor while staying tender but not mushy.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This adds a rich, savory base that cooks the noodles and infuses them with flavor from the inside out.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter enriches the noodles, giving them a silky, luscious coating that makes every bite delicious.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a fragrant, slightly spicy warmth that elevates the dish’s aroma and taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This adds subtle depth without overpowering the buttery noodles.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all other flavors to create a perfectly seasoned balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of mild heat to awaken your palate.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Cheese melts into a creamy finish that adds umami richness and a touch of saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant color contrast and a hint of herbal brightness at the end.
How to Make Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles in Broth
Start by placing the egg noodles and broth in a large skillet or saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, giving it an occasional stir to keep the noodles from sticking. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until the noodles are tender and most of the broth has been absorbed. This step is crucial because it allows the noodles to soak up all that flavorful liquid, infusing every bite with savory goodness. Once done, reduce the heat to low to prepare for the delicious finishing touches.
Step 2: Add Butter and Seasonings
Next, stir in the butter until it’s fully melted and coats the noodles luxuriously. Toss in the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, making sure each strand is evenly seasoned. This part transforms simple noodles into a flavor-packed dish with the perfect garlicky punch and a warm seasoning blend that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Step 3: Stir in Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and stir thoroughly until it melts and creates a creamy consistency. If the mixture seems a little thick or dry, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up for that silky texture that defines great buttered noodles. This cheesy layer binds the dish together beautifully, making it irresistibly smooth and rich.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Finally, serve your Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles piping hot. For an extra touch of freshness and a pop of color, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. This simple garnish brightens the dish visually and adds a delightful mild herbaceous note that complements the rich flavors perfectly.
How to Serve Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a classic and lovely garnish, you can also experiment with a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a little lemon zest to add a splash of brightness. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan or some toasted breadcrumbs can bring texture and extra flavor layers to this simple dish.
Side Dishes
This Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe shines as a side or main dish. Pair it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness with some crispness and variety. It’s also excellent served with sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for a veggie boost.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking the buttered noodles briefly under the broiler with extra cheese on top for a golden crust or mix in cooked peas and diced ham for a comforting casserole vibe. Serving in small bowls with a sprinkle of herbs makes for a cozy presentation perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the noodles may absorb more liquid as they sit, so they might thicken up slightly.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftover buttered noodles, it’s best to do so without the fresh parsley garnish to preserve freshness. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth, water, or butter as needed to restore that creamy, saucy texture. Microwaving works too, but stirring occasionally helps to warm it evenly without drying out the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles work beautifully for the Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or rotini. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.
Is it necessary to use chicken broth? Can I substitute vegetable broth?
You can definitely substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian. The flavor will still be rich and savory, just slightly different based on the broth you choose.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. These swaps still deliver that buttery, cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I add vegetables or protein directly to the one-pan recipe?
Yes! Adding quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms toward the end of cooking is a great way to boost nutrition and color. Precooked proteins such as shredded chicken or sautéed sausage can also be stirred in just before serving.
Why are my noodles sometimes mushy when I make one pan recipes?
The key is to watch your cooking time closely and use enough liquid to cook the noodles but not so much that they become soggy. Stirring occasionally and reducing the heat once they’re tender helps prevent overcooking and mushiness.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about the ease and comforting flavors of this Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe. Whether you’re short on time or just craving a cozy, buttery dish, this recipe has you covered. I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the simplicity and warmth it brings to your table. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again!
Print
Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles is a quick and comforting pasta dish made by cooking egg noodles directly in broth and finishing with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy, flavorful meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles (or preferred pasta)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Wet Ingredients and Aromatics
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the egg noodles and broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Then reduce the heat to low.
- Add Butter and Seasonings: Stir in the unsalted butter until fully melted. Add the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to evenly coat the noodles with the flavors.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the noodles hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute egg noodles with your preferred pasta type.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of your broth.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adding freshly cracked black pepper at the end enhances the flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
