Classic Garlic Buttered Noodles with Parmesan
Buttered Noodles
Silky egg noodles tossed in melted butter, garlic, and Parmesan. The ultimate 15-minute comfort food.
Nutrition (per serving)
There is something incredibly nostalgic and soothing about a warm bowl of buttered noodles. It is the ultimate 'hug in a bowl' that appeals to everyone from picky toddlers to adults looking for a quick, soulful meal after a long day. While it seems simple, the secret to truly spectacular buttered noodles lies in the quality of the butter and that magical splash of starchy pasta water that turns a dry noodle into a silky, glossy masterpiece.
In this version, we elevate the humble noodle with a hint of garlic powder for depth and a generous dusting of salty Parmesan cheese. Using wide egg noodles is key here, as their crinkly edges are perfect for catching every drop of the buttery sauce. Whether you serve this as a side to roasted chicken or enjoy it all by itself with a crack of fresh black pepper, it’s a recipe that proves the simplest ingredients often make the most memorable meals.
Ingredients
- Wide egg noodles:12 oz
- Unsalted butter:6 tbsp
- Garlic powder:½ tsp
- Kosher salt:½ tsp
- Black pepper:¼ tsp
- Grated Parmesan cheese:¼ cup
- Fresh parsley, chopped:1 tbsp
Instructions
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
-
Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7 to 9 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm.
-
Before draining, carefully scoop out about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside.
-
Drain the noodles in a colander and return them to the warm pot over low heat.
-
Add the butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the noodles. Toss gently until the butter is completely melted.
-
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water, tossing until a silky sauce coats the noodles. Add more pasta water if they seem too dry.
-
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Tips & Notes
- Always salt your pasta water generously; it's the only chance you get to season the noodles themselves.
- For an extra rich flavor, try using a high-quality European-style butter with a higher fat content.
- If you want a bit of crunch, top the noodles with a handful of toasted Panko breadcrumbs.
