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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Toss Pasta with Butter: Return the drained pasta to the pot with melted butter and toss well to coat each noodle evenly.
- 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.
- Add Sauce to Noodles: Pour the Parmesan, herb, and pasta water mixture over the buttered noodles in the pot.
- 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
