If you crave a cozy, comforting dish that comes together with almost no effort, Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles will quickly become your new go-to. It’s astonishing how just a handful of kitchen staples—tender egg noodles, rich butter, fragrant seasonings, and a sprinkle of cheese—transform into a dish that feels both homey and totally irresistible. Whether you need a quick weeknight side or a warm bowl of carb-y comfort after a long day, this recipe delivers pure, buttery bliss with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles recipe serves a clear, delicious purpose. It’s a lesson in simplicity, where each element adds its own subtle magic—creamy, savory, and utterly craveable. Here’s what you’ll need and how to make every bit count:
- Egg Noodles: The star of the show! Their soft, pillowy texture soaks up every drop of flavor from the broth and butter.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Infuses the noodles with savory depth, while providing just the right amount of moisture for perfect pan-cooked pasta.
- Unsalted Butter: The secret to a silky, rich coating—use the good stuff for best results!
- Garlic Powder: Adds mellow, aromatic flavor without any chopping or fuss.
- Onion Powder: Rounds out the savory notes, boosting the overall flavor profile.
- Black Pepper: Brings a gentle kick and balances all that creamy butter.
- Salt: Enhances every ingredient (adjust to your taste and the saltiness of your broth).
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts seamlessly into the noodles, giving you a final flourish of nutty, salty goodness.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness to brighten up the bowl.
How to Make Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles
Step 1: Combine Noodles and Broth
Grab your largest skillet or sauté pan and scatter in the egg noodles. Pour the chicken broth over the top; make sure the noodles are mostly submerged, which helps with even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Set the pan over medium-high heat and bring everything to a gentle boil. This step wakes up the noodles and starts infusing them with all that savory broth—the kitchen will smell fantastic in no time.
Step 3: Simmer and Stir
Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium. Let the noodles cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for tender noodles and just a little bit of broth left in the pan; it’ll all turn silky when you add the butter.
Step 4: Add Butter and Seasonings
Drop the butter into the hot noodles, along with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, letting the butter melt and coat every strand. The noodles will start to look glossy and irresistible!
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the warm noodles and toss everything together until it’s evenly distributed. This is where the Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles become luxuriously creamy and cheesy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If you’re feeling fancy, scatter the chopped parsley on top for freshness and a dash of green. Serve up your noodles while they’re hot and melty—you won’t regret it!
How to Serve Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way! Top your Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles with fresh parsley, more grated Parmesan, or even a twist of cracked black pepper. For a cozy Italian touch, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds subtle warmth.
Side Dishes
Buttered noodles are happy both as a star or supporting player. Pair them with roasted chicken, sautéed vegetables, or a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded meal. They also love company from some garlicky green beans or a simple tomato-basil salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to mix things up? Try serving your noodles in individual bowls topped with a perfectly fried egg, or as a bed for tender grilled salmon. For parties, spoon them into mini ramekins and finish with a dusting of extra parm and parsley for bite-sized delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), cool the Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making them a welcome grab-and-go lunch or snack.
Freezing
While these noodles taste best freshly made, you can freeze them in a pinch. Let them cool completely, then pack into a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight—just know the texture may change slightly, but the flavors will still satisfy!
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until hot. A quick toss on the stovetop over low heat also works wonders. Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan to revive that just-cooked brightness.
FAQs
Can I use another type Side Dish
Absolutely! While egg noodles provide that classic tender texture, you can make this with any short pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time and add a bit more broth if needed.
Is there a way to make Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles vegetarian?
Yes indeed—just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You’ll still get a comforting, flavorful pot of noodles that everyone can enjoy regardless of dietary preference.
What can I add to make this a full meal?
You can add cooked chicken, sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or even a handful of frozen peas to turn Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles into a heartier main course. The possibilities are endless!
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Definitely—substitute your favorite plant-based butter and dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese. The result is still luscious, silky, and completely comforting.
Do I have to use fresh parsley?
Nope! Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a herbal note, but if you don’t have any on hand, dried parsley or even a little chopped chive or basil works in a pinch—or skip it entirely!
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles have stood the test of time—they’re fast, cozy, and outrageously tasty with barely any fuss. Next time you need comfort on the fly or a crowd-pleasing side everyone will fight over, give this recipe a try. You (and your taste buds) won’t be disappointed!
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Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles are a quick and delicious side dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender egg noodles are cooked in flavorful chicken broth and tossed with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Egg Noodles:
- 12 ounces egg noodles
Chicken Broth:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Butter Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Finishing Touches:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: In a large skillet, combine egg noodles and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-12 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Add Butter Mixture: Stir in butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until noodles are coated.
- Finish: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over noodles, stir, and garnish with parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in cooked chicken or sausage.
- Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
