Buttered noodles are a simple yet comforting dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. This recipe combines al dente cooked pasta with a rich and creamy butter sauce, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal.
Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to soothe your soul, buttered noodles are always a reliable choice.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and comforting dish that will surely become a favorite in your household. Let's dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
One of the main reasons why this recipe is a winner is its sheer simplicity. You only need a few basic ingredients - noodles, butter, salt, and optionally, a bit of cheese or herbs for added flavor. It doesn't demand a lot of time or cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners in the kitchen or for those days when you're short on time. Yet, the end result is a deliciously comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Additionally, buttered noodles serve as a fantastic canvas for a multitude of dishes. They can be enjoyed as a Dinner, a side dish, or even a base for more complex meals. You can jazz them up with your favorite herbs and spices, add some protein like chicken or shrimp, or toss in a variety of vegetables for a more balanced meal. This recipe offers endless versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your specific dietary preferences or requirements. So, not only are you preparing a tasty dish, but also one that can be customized to suit anyone's taste buds.
Ingredients
Noodles - Choose any variety you like, from egg noodles to spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. You can even opt for gluten-free or whole grain alternatives if you're watching your diet.
Butter - Unsalted butter is preferred to control the sodium level. If you're vegan, use a vegan butter substitute or olive oil for a different flavor profile.
Parmesan Cheese - Grated fresh parmesan adds a beautiful savory flavor. You can substitute with any hard cheese like pecorino or even vegan cheese.
Garlic - Freshly minced garlic infuses great flavor. If fresh is not available, you can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Salt and Pepper - Enhances the flavor of the dish. You can also use a touch of white pepper for a slightly different twist.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water. It's the best chance to season the noodles themselves.
- Cook the noodles al dente, which means they should still have a bit of bite. They will continue cooking slightly when you add them to the hot butter.
- Add some pasta water to the butter and cheese mixture. It helps create a smoother sauce.
- Don't skimp on the butter. This dish is simple, and each ingredient shines.
- Use freshly grated cheese if possible. It melts better and generally has a better flavor than pre-shredded cheeses.
How to Serve
Buttered noodles can be a hearty main dish or a tasty side to complement other meals. They are versatile and can be paired with a variety of proteins and vegetables.
- As a main dish: Top buttered noodles with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
- As a side dish: Serve alongside a juicy steak or baked fish. The simplicity of the buttered noodles complements the complexity of these proteins well.
- For children: Kids love these buttered noodles. Add some cooked peas, carrots, or sweet corn to incorporate some vegetables into their meal.
Need more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Buttered Noodles for 15 delicious side dishes.
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Buttered Noodles
Ingredients
- 200 grams Noodles
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
- 2 cloves Garlic
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and then drain.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the drained noodles to the pan with the butter and garlic. Toss well to combine.
- Add the parmesan cheese and toss again, adding pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Cook the noodles al dente, which means they should still have a bit of bite. They will continue cooking slightly when you add them to the hot butter.
• Add some pasta water to the butter and cheese mixture. It helps create a smoother sauce.
• Don't skimp on the butter. This dish is simple, and each ingredient shines.
• Use freshly grated cheese if possible. It melts better and generally has a better flavor than pre-shredded cheeses.