Creamy Lemon Parmesan Buttered Noodles Recipe

Introduction

Buttered noodles are a comforting and simple dish that comes together quickly with pantry staples. This version is elevated with Parmesan, herbs, and a touch of lemon for brightness, making it perfect as a side or a light meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz. pasta (egg noodles or pappardelle work well)
• ¼ cup pasta water
• ½ chicken bouillon cube (optional)
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the shredded Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried parsley, and garlic powder in a small, sealable container. Set aside to add pasta water and mix later.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, salt it generously with about ½ tablespoon Kosher salt.
3. Step 3: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
4. Step 4: Optional: Stir the warm reserved pasta water together with ½ a chicken bouillon cube to enhance the flavor.
5. Step 5: Return the empty pot to the stove and melt the butter over low heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
6. Step 6: Add the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and Parmesan-herb mixture to the container. Seal and shake to combine, then pour the mixture over the pasta.
7. Step 7: Use kitchen tongs to toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately, ideally with garlic bread topped with cheese.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute some of the butter with olive oil or add a splash of cream.
• If you prefer fresh herbs, replace the dried oregano and parsley with finely chopped fresh versions.
• Add cooked vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to make the dish more substantial.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or broth to loosen the noodles and maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, egg noodles or pappardelle are recommended, but you can use any pasta shape you like. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is the chicken bouillon cube necessary?

It’s optional but adds depth of flavor. You can skip it or use vegetable bouillon if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Buttered Noodles Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 126 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 3 to 4 servings 1x

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Description

A simple and comforting Buttered Noodles recipe featuring tender pasta tossed with melted butter, a flavorful Parmesan cheese and herb mixture, and a hint of lemon juice for brightness. Perfect as a quick weeknight side dish or a cozy meal on its own.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Broth

• 8 oz. pasta (egg noodles or pappardelle work well)
• ¼ cup pasta water
• ½ chicken bouillon cube (optional)

Butter and Seasonings

• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Parmesan Herb Mixture: Combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried parsley, and garlic powder in a small sealable container. This will be used later to flavor the noodles when combined with pasta water.
2. Boil Pasta Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, salt the water generously with about ½ tablespoon of kosher salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
3. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling salted water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the noodles.
4. Prepare Flavorful Broth (Optional): If desired, dissolve ½ chicken bouillon cube into the warm reserved pasta water to add extra savory flavor to the dish.
5. Melt Butter: In the warm pot previously used for boiling pasta, add 4 tablespoons of salted butter and allow it to melt over low heat.
6. Toss Pasta with Butter: Return the drained pasta to the pot with melted butter and toss well to coat each noodle evenly.
7. Combine Seasonings and Pasta Water: Add the lemon juice to the reserved pasta water mixture along with the Parmesan herb seasoning blend. Seal the container and shake thoroughly to mix.
8. Add Sauce to Noodles: Pour the Parmesan, herb, and pasta water mixture over the buttered noodles in the pot.
9. Toss and Serve: Using kitchen tongs, toss the noodles until the sauce is fully combined and coats the noodles evenly. Serve immediately, ideally paired with garlic bread topped with cheese for a complete comforting meal.

Notes

• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Reserving pasta water is key as it helps bind the sauce to the noodles.
• The chicken bouillon option adds extra depth but can be omitted for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• If using salted butter, reduce added salt accordingly to avoid over-salting.
• Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish—don’t skip it for a fresh taste balance.
• Pair with crusty garlic bread to make this simple dish extra satisfying.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: buttered noodles, easy pasta recipe, Parmesan noodles, quick side dish, comfort food