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.
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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.