If you’re craving a comforting and fuss-free pasta dish, this Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. In just one pan and around 20 minutes, you’ll create irresistibly creamy, buttery noodles with a hint of garlic and Parmesan, all coming together in a way that feels decadent but is incredibly simple. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a cozy side, this recipe hits all the right notes without any complicated steps or endless pots to wash.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on a few quality ingredients that bring out comforting flavors and a luscious texture. Each element is essential, from the buttery richness to the subtle garlic punch and that melty Parmesan finish, creating a perfectly balanced dish every time.
- 12 oz egg noodles: These tender pasta shapes cook quickly and soak up the buttery sauce beautifully.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Adds flavorful moisture that cooks the noodles without needing extra water.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star of the dish, providing a rich, silky mouthfeel and savory depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a gentle aromatic warmth that elevates the noodles without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Gives subtle sweetness and enhances the overall savoriness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Balances and heightens all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite that complements the buttery base.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a creamy, nutty finish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Brings a pop of fresh color and mild brightness.
How to Make Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by combining the egg noodles and broth in a large skillet or saucepan. Bring it up to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method cooks the noodles directly in the flavorful broth, which means they soak up all that delicious taste while softening perfectly. After about 8 to 10 minutes, the noodles should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed. Once done, reduce the heat to low to prepare for the next steps.
Step 2: Add Butter and Seasonings
Next, stir in the butter until it melts into a glossy coating around the noodles. Toss in the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well so every strand is infused with savory goodness. This step transforms simple noodles into a deeply flavorful base that feels indulgent but remains homey and comforting.
Step 3: Incorporate Cheese
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and gently stir it through the noodles. The cheese melts into a creamy sauce that clings to the noodles, elevating this dish into something really special. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and achieve that perfect silky texture.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Serve the buttery noodles hot, straight from the pan, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like. The parsley adds a beautiful hint of color and freshness that balances the richness, making each bite as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
How to Serve Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens this dish visually but also adds a subtle herbaceous note. For an extra touch, you could also toss in a few toasted pine nuts or a dusting of extra Parmesan for those cheese lovers who want a little more oomph.
Side Dishes
These Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles pair wonderfully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even a juicy steak to soak up any extra buttery sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests or family? Try serving these noodles in individual bowls, topped with a sprig of fresh thyme or chives for an elegant finish. Alternatively, spoon the noodles onto a bed of steamed greens or serve alongside a flavorful mushroom ragout for a cozy but sophisticated meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Buttered Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They stay creamy and delicious but might thicken as they cool, so a quick stir with a bit of warm broth or water will bring them back to life when reheating.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may alter the texture of the noodles and sauce. However, if you do freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth, milk, or water to loosen the sauce and restore that creamy texture. Avoid microwaving without moisture, as the noodles can dry out quickly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for this dish due to their texture and shape, you can swap in other pasta types such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different pastas may require slight adjustments.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and the dish remains flavorful and satisfying. The butter and Parmesan carry plenty of richness, making this a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy element. The broth and seasonings will still provide ample flavor for a tasty dairy-free version.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu, which you can cook separately and fold in. Adding protein turns this into a complete and filling meal without complicating the easy one-pan approach.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?
If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great substitutes and offer a similar salty, nutty flavor. Alternatively, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy note if you want to keep it lighter or dairy-free.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe enough for those days when you want something that tastes like a warm hug but doesn’t require a mountain of dishes or time. It’s simple, flavorful, and comforting in the best way possible. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation. You’re going to love how effortlessly delicious it is!
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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles recipe is a quick and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender egg noodles are cooked directly in broth, then enriched with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy, flavorful meal that requires minimal cleanup. An optional sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
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
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the egg noodles and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture 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 has been absorbed. Once done, reduce the heat to low.
- Add Butter and Seasonings: Stir in the unsalted butter until it melts completely, coating the noodles evenly. Add the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors throughout the noodles.
- Incorporate Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and stir until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. If the noodles seem too dry, add a small splash of broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the buttered noodles hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Adjust the salt to taste, especially if your broth is already salted.
- Adding a splash of broth or water while stirring in cheese helps achieve a creamier sauce.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice color and freshness.
- Feel free to substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for variation.
- To add protein, consider tossing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu after cooking the noodles.
