Buttered Noodles Recipe

Egg noodles: These are the base of the dish, providing a tender and slightly chewy texture.

Unsalted butter: This adds richness and a creamy coating to the noodles.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

Parmesan cheese: Optional, but it adds a savory, umami flavor that complements the buttered noodles.

When cooking egg noodles, ensure you use a large pot with plenty of boiling water. This prevents the noodles from sticking together and allows them to cook evenly. Adding a pinch of salt to the water enhances the flavor of the noodles. After draining, quickly return the noodles to the pot and add the unsalted butter while they are still hot. This helps the butter melt faster and coat the noodles more thoroughly. For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the parmesan cheese lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling it over the noodles.

• egg noodles - Substitute with fettuccine: Fettuccine has a similar texture and can hold the butter sauce well.

• egg noodles - Substitute with spaghetti: Spaghetti is a common pasta that can easily replace egg noodles in most recipes.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich flavor and is a healthier fat alternative.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can mimic the creamy texture of butter and is often used as a dairy-free option.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can reduce the need for additional salt.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a different texture and a slightly different flavor profile.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain a lighter color in the dish.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat and a different flavor dimension.

• parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly sharper taste.

• parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative.

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Transfer the cooled buttered noodles into an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The noodles will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For freezing, place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of storage time.
• When ready to use, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain their texture.
• Reheat the noodles on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
• Alternatively, microwave the noodles in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• If the noodles seem dry after reheating, add a small amount of butter or olive oil to restore their creamy texture.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Once the butter is melted or the oil is hot, add the leftover buttered noodles.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, for about 5-7 minutes.
  5. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to moisten them.
  6. Serve hot, optionally topped with more parmesan cheese.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the buttered noodles in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a small splash of water or chicken broth to keep the noodles from drying out.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Stir the noodles and check the temperature. If not hot enough, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until heated through.
  6. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with grated parmesan.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the buttered noodles in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the dish to prevent the noodles from drying out.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
  5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.
  6. Remove from the oven, stir, and serve hot, optionally with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  2. Place the buttered noodles in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.
  4. Stir the noodles gently to ensure even heating.
  5. Serve immediately, optionally topped with grated parmesan.

• Sous Vide Method:

  1. Place the buttered noodles in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag using the water displacement method.
  2. Set your sous vide machine to 165°F (74°C).
  3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and cook for about 20-30 minutes.
  4. Remove the bag from the water bath, open it, and transfer the noodles to a serving dish.
  5. Serve hot, optionally garnished with parmesan cheese.

• Pot: Used to cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.

• Colander: Essential for draining the cooked noodles.

• Stirring spoon: Helps in mixing the butter with the noodles until evenly coated.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring the salt, black pepper, and optional parmesan cheese.

• Grater: Needed if you choose to top the noodles with freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Pre-cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to use, simply reheat and add butter.

Use microwave butter: Melt the unsalted butter in the microwave while the noodles cook to save time.

Pre-grate cheese: Grate the parmesan cheese ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.

One-pot method: Cook the noodles in a large pot, drain, and return them to the same pot to mix with butter and seasonings, reducing cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and store portions in the fridge for quick reheating throughout the week.