Buttered Noodles Recipe (with Video)

Buttered Noodles Recipe: Buttered noodles are the ultimate comfort food—simple, rich, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a side dish to complement your main course, buttered noodles always deliver. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and can be customized in countless ways.

This guide will walk you through a step-by-step buttered noodles recipe, from selecting the right pasta to adding delicious seasonings. Get ready to enjoy the best buttered noodles you’ve ever made!

Ingredients Needed

To make the perfect buttered noodles, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

Basic Ingredients:

• Pasta (8 oz.) – Any type you prefer (spaghetti, fettuccine, egg noodles, etc.)
• Unsalted butter (4 tbsp.) – Gives a rich, creamy flavor
• Salt (1 tsp.) – For boiling water and seasoning
• Black pepper (½ tsp.) – Adds mild heat
• Garlic powder (½ tsp.) – Optional, for extra flavor
• Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated) – Optional, for a cheesy twist

Optional Add-ons:

• Fresh parsley or basil
• Red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Lemon zest for brightness
• Olive oil for a silkier texture

Substitutions:

• Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version
• Swap dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly dish

Choosing the Right Pasta

Not all pasta is created equal when it comes to buttered noodles. Some work better than others!

Best Pasta Types for Buttered Noodles:

• Egg noodles – Classic choice with a soft, chewy texture
• Spaghetti or linguine – Perfect for a simple and elegant dish
• Fettuccine – Holds butter sauce well
• Penne or rotini – Great for catching butter in the ridges

Cooking Time for Different Pasta Shapes:

• Thin pasta (angel hair, spaghetti): 5-7 minutes
• Medium pasta (fettuccine, linguine): 8-10 minutes
• Thicker pasta (penne, rigatoni): 10-12 minutes

Gluten-Free & Low-Carb Options:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – Low-carb alternative
• Chickpea or lentil pasta – High-protein, gluten-free option

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make perfect buttered noodles:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil (about 4-5 cups).
2. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
3. Drop in the pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
4. Cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
5. Drain the pasta, but reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Sauce

1. In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
2. Stir in garlic powder, black pepper, and any seasonings of your choice.
3. If using cheese, add Parmesan now and stir until melted.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Toss the cooked pasta into the butter sauce.
2. Add a splash of reserved pasta water (if needed) to create a silky texture.
3. Stir until every noodle is coated in buttery goodness.

Enhancing the Flavor

Want to take your buttered noodles up a notch? Try these:

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, or chives.
• Cheese: Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago add extra depth.
• Spices: Red pepper flakes for heat, nutmeg for a warm touch.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a bright, fresh contrast.

Serving Suggestions

Buttered noodles can be enjoyed alone or paired with:

• Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.
• Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach.
• Side Dishes: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking pasta – Always aim for al dente.
2. Not saving pasta water – It helps create a silky sauce.
3. Using too little butter – Don’t be afraid to be generous!

Variations of Buttered Noodles

• Spicy Buttered Noodles: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Lemon Garlic Buttered Noodles: Mix in fresh garlic and lemon juice.
• Creamy Buttered Noodles: Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese for richness.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan with a little extra butter or water.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as butter separates when frozen.

FAQs about Buttered Noodles Recipe

1. What type of noodles are best for buttered noodles?

For buttered noodles, you want a noodle that holds onto the butter sauce well. Egg noodles are a popular choice due to their texture and ability to soak up flavors. However, you can also use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta you have on hand.

2. Can I add protein to my buttered noodles?

Absolutely! Buttered noodles pair wonderfully with a variety of proteins. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even slices of steak can turn this dish into a hearty meal. Simply cook your protein separately and mix it in with the noodles for a delicious combination.

3. What can I add to buttered noodles to make them more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of buttered noodles, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of garlic powder, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A dash of black pepper or red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick.

4. Are buttered noodles suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, buttered noodles are inherently vegetarian, making them a great option for those following a meat-free diet. Ensure that the butter and any added ingredients like cheese are suitable for vegetarians.

5. How can I make vegan buttered noodles?

To make vegan buttered noodles, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative. Look for vegan-friendly noodles, and replace traditional cheeses with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

6. How do I store leftover buttered noodles?

Leftover buttered noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a microwave or on the stove with a little extra butter or water to prevent them from drying out.

7. Can buttered noodles be frozen?

It’s best to avoid freezing buttered noodles as they can become mushy when thawed. For best results, enjoy them fresh or store in the refrigerator as suggested.

Conclusion

Buttered noodles are a simple yet satisfying dish that anyone can make. With a few basic ingredients and easy techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in minutes. Try different variations, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy this timeless classic!