Butter noodles are the ultimate comfort food: creamy, buttery, and satisfying without any complicated steps. They’re quick to make, require only a few pantry staples, and can be easily customized with herbs, cheese, or vegetables. Whether you’re serving them as a side or enjoying them on their own, these noodles hit the spot every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta of choice (spaghetti, egg noodles, or fettuccine recommended)
Unsalted butter
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, garlic, or lemon zest
Directions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a small amount of pasta water.
In the same pot, melt the butter over low heat.
Add the cooked pasta to the melted butter and toss to coat evenly.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash of reserved pasta water for extra creaminess.
Serve immediately, topped with optional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of garlic or lemon zest.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Variations
Garlic Butter Noodles: Sauté minced garlic in the butter before adding the pasta.
Herb Butter Noodles: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme.
Cheesy Noodles: Mix in grated Parmesan, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano cheese.
Lemon Butter Noodles: Stir in lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Spicy Butter Noodles: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
Veggie Boost: Toss in cooked peas, spinach, or roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.
Creamy Butter Noodles: Add a splash of cream or milk for a richer sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store butter noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little butter or pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as the noodles may dry out.
FAQs
Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes, most pasta types work well, including spaghetti, egg noodles, or fettuccine.
How do I make noodles creamy?
Add a splash of reserved pasta water or a small amount of cream while tossing the pasta in butter.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, cooked vegetables like peas, spinach, or roasted carrots make a great addition.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare noodles ahead and reheat gently with a little butter or pasta water.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt to avoid over-seasoning.
Can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based butter and choose pasta without eggs to make a vegan version.
How do I prevent noodles from sticking?
Toss the cooked noodles in butter immediately after draining and stir occasionally to coat evenly.
Can I freeze butter noodles?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.
How can I add flavor without cheese?
Use garlic, herbs, lemon zest, or spices like paprika or black pepper for extra flavor.
Are butter noodles healthy?
They are simple and comforting, but for a more balanced dish, pair with vegetables or lean protein.
Conclusion
Butter noodles are a quick, easy, and delicious comfort food that’s perfect for any day of the week. With minimal ingredients and endless customization options, they can be a simple side dish or a flavorful main. Creamy, buttery, and satisfying, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Butter noodles are a quick and comforting pasta dish made with just a few pantry staples. Rich, buttery, and satisfying, they’re perfect as a side dish or simple main meal.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, egg noodles, or fettuccine)
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Return the pot to low heat and melt the butter.
Add the cooked pasta to the melted butter and toss to coat evenly.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if desired for extra creaminess.
Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, or lemon zest if using.
Notes
Use salted butter if preferred, but adjust added salt accordingly.Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and creaminess.For more flavor, sauté garlic in butter before adding pasta.Best enjoyed fresh, but can be gently reheated with a splash of water or butter.Customize with herbs, cheese, vegetables, or citrus for variety.
