Easy Butter Noodles Recipe: Classic Comfort Food with Garlic, Parmesan, and Homemade Flavor
Butter noodles are a classic comfort food loved across generations for their simplicity, creamy texture, and nostalgic appeal. Also referred to as “garlic butter noodles” or “parmesan butter noodles,” this dish has become increasingly popular on Pinterest and other food platforms under searches like “easy butter noodles recipe,” “creamy garlic butter noodles,” “homemade buttered noodles,” and “simple weeknight pasta.” The charm of butter noodles lies in their simplicity: tender pasta coated in melted butter, subtly seasoned, and often enhanced with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs.
This recipe guide aims to take you through every step of creating restaurant-quality butter noodles at home. It covers nutritional benefits, precise ingredient quantities for 4–6 servings, detailed cooking steps, healthy modifications, and several creative variations. Whether serving a quick weeknight dinner or preparing an impressive side dish for gatherings, these butter noodles are versatile, visually appealing, and flavorful.
Also try: Beef Noodles Recipe
What Are Butter Noodles?
Butter noodles are a simple pasta dish consisting of cooked noodles tossed in melted butter and seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional additions like garlic, cheese, or herbs. Unlike heavy cream-based pasta dishes, butter noodles rely on butter and seasoning to create a smooth, rich coating for the noodles, making them light yet indulgent.
This dish has roots in European comfort cuisine and has been popularized in American homes as an easy, family-friendly meal. Its appeal lies in the minimal ingredients required, quick preparation, and adaptability to suit various dietary preferences. Butter noodles can serve as a standalone dish or as a side accompanying proteins like chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
Also try: Homemade Ramen Noodles
Nutritional Overview
Butter noodles are primarily a carbohydrate-based dish with fats from butter and optional cheese. A standard serving provides:
- Energy from pasta (complex carbohydrates)
- Healthy fats from butter (or olive oil as a substitution)
- Protein if Parmesan or other cheeses are added
- Vitamins and minerals from optional additions like garlic, herbs, or vegetables
While butter noodles are indulgent, they can be adapted to balance nutrition. Using whole-grain pasta, reducing butter, or incorporating vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas can increase fiber, vitamins, and minerals without compromising flavor. Portion control is essential to ensure a balanced meal.
Main Ingredients and Quantities (Serves 4–6)
- Egg noodles, fettuccine, or spaghetti: 12 ounces (340 g)
- Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons (85 g)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, finely minced (optional for garlic butter noodles)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Optional: olive oil 1 tablespoon (to sauté garlic or for lighter fat)
- Optional vegetables: peas 1 cup, broccoli florets 1 cup, or spinach 2 cups
- Optional protein: grilled chicken breast 1–2 medium (about 450 g), shrimp 12–16 pieces
These measurements ensure balanced flavor and generous portion sizes. The recipe can be scaled up or down for larger gatherings or smaller servings.
Ingredient Explanations
Noodles
Egg noodles are traditional, offering a tender texture that absorbs butter and seasoning. Fettuccine or spaghetti are also suitable. Cooking pasta al dente ensures a firm bite that pairs well with creamy butter coating.
Butter
Butter is the foundation of this recipe, providing richness, flavor, and glossy texture. Unsalted butter allows control of seasoning. For lighter options, half butter and half olive oil can be used.
Garlic
Garlic enhances flavor with aromatic depth. Minced garlic disperses evenly, avoiding harsh bites. Saute briefly in butter to release aroma without burning.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds umami and subtle saltiness, giving the dish a more complex flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly into the butter. Pre-grated cheese may alter consistency.
Salt and Pepper
These basic seasonings balance and enhance the natural flavors of butter and pasta. Adjust salt based on the saltiness of the cheese or optional protein.
Fresh Herbs
Parsley adds color, aroma, and freshness. Optional basil or chives can be used for variation.
Optional Vegetables and Protein
Adding vegetables or proteins increases nutritional value, fiber, and satiety. Lightly sauté or steam vegetables to retain texture. Proteins like chicken or shrimp complement the richness of butter noodles.
How to Prepare Butter Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency. Avoid overcooking to maintain firm texture.
Step 2: Prepare Optional Protein and Vegetables
If using protein, season with salt and pepper. Sauté chicken or shrimp in a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil until fully cooked. Steam or sauté vegetables lightly to maintain color and texture.
Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce
In a large skillet, melt 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. For a lighter version, use 3 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add drained noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat evenly with melted butter and garlic. Add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce if needed. Ensure all noodles are fully coated.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the noodles, tossing to melt and distribute evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust consistency with additional pasta water if necessary.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer noodles to a serving dish or individual plates. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot for optimal flavor. Optional vegetables or protein can be mixed in or served alongside.
Healthy Habits
Butter noodles can be adapted for healthier meals by:
- Using whole-grain or legume-based pasta for fiber
- Reducing butter and incorporating olive oil or Greek yogurt
- Adding vegetables for nutrients and color
- Controlling portion size
- Pairing with lean proteins to balance macronutrients
These adjustments maintain flavor while boosting overall nutritional value.
Variations of Butter Noodles
1. Garlic Butter Noodles
Enhance the dish by sautéing 3–4 cloves of garlic in butter before tossing noodles. Garlic adds depth and aroma. Lightly sprinkle Parmesan and parsley for a classic finish.
This version is aromatic, simple, and works as a side or main dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners when minimal ingredients are desired.
2. Parmesan Spinach Butter Noodles
Add 2 cups fresh spinach to butter noodles before tossing with Parmesan. Spinach wilts slightly, adding color, fiber, and vitamins. Garlic can be included for additional flavor.
This version balances indulgence and nutrition, making it ideal for a wholesome family meal. Sprinkle extra cheese and parsley for visual appeal.
3. Chicken Butter Noodles
Include sautéed chicken slices to make a hearty main dish. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before cooking. Toss with butter noodles and Parmesan for a complete meal.
Protein increases satiety and nutritional balance. Serve with vegetables for a complete family dinner or meal prep option.
4. Mushroom Butter Noodles
Sauté mushrooms in butter and combine with noodles. Mushrooms add umami and texture, complementing creamy butter. Finish with parsley and Parmesan.
This variation is vegetarian-friendly and adds earthy flavors, perfect for lunch or dinner. Can include garlic or spinach for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Cook pasta al dente for perfect texture
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth melting
- Avoid burning garlic by sautéing briefly
- Adjust butter and pasta water for sauce consistency
- Serve immediately for best taste and appearance
