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Butter Noodles Recipe - Simple, Comforting, and Ready in Minutes

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces egg noodles (wide or medium; you can use other pasta, but egg noodles are classic)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (use good-quality butter if you can)
  • 1–2 cloves garlic, minced (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated tastes best)
  • 1–2 tablespoons pasta cooking water (to help the sauce cling)
  • Salt (for the pasta water and to taste)
  • Black pepper (freshly ground)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for color and freshness)
  • Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, peas, baby spinach, or cooked chicken

Method
 

  1. Boil the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package until just tender. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
  2. Melt the butter: In the same pot or a large skillet over low heat, melt the butter. If using garlic, add it and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Don’t brown it.
  3. Combine: Add the cooked noodles back to the pot with the butter. Toss gently to coat.
  4. Loosen the sauce: Add 1–2 tablespoons of pasta water and toss again. This helps the butter coat the noodles evenly and prevents dryness.
  5. Season: Sprinkle in the Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Toss until the cheese melts slightly and the noodles look glossy.
  6. Finish and serve: Stir in parsley if you like. Taste and adjust seasoning. Plate immediately while hot.
  7. Optional upgrades: Add red pepper flakes for heat, lemon zest for brightness, peas or spinach for color, or sliced grilled chicken for protein.