Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that comes together in under twenty minutes and only dirties a single skillet, Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles are a weeknight game-changer you’ll crave again and again. Egg noodles gently simmer right in chicken broth, soak up all that savory flavor, then get finished with a swirl of butter, Parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Whether you serve it as a simple side or a cozy bowlful for dinner, this dish turns a handful of classics into weeknight magic with minimal effort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few pantry staples and a garnish or two, you’ll have everything on hand to whip up Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles whenever the craving strikes. Each ingredient is selected for its big impact on flavor, texture, and that golden, buttery finish everyone adores.

  • Egg noodles: These broad, curly noodles cook up quickly and are perfect for soaking in all the buttery flavor.
  • Low-sodium chicken broth: Not only cooks the noodles, but infuses them with rich flavor—no draining needed!
  • Unsalted butter: The star of the show, adding luscious richness and a silky coating to every bite.
  • Garlic powder: Offers a subtle garlicky note that boosts flavor without overpowering simplicity.
  • Onion powder: Adds depth and that classic savory background to the buttery noodles.
  • Black pepper: A touch of freshly ground black pepper balances the richness and adds just a hint of bite.
  • Salt (or to taste): Essential to bring out the flavors in both the noodles and the broth.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully into the hot noodles for that cheesy, nutty finish.
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A pop of green freshness that makes the finished dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Simmer the Noodles

Start by grabbing your largest skillet or sauté pan—something wide enough for the noodles to lay mostly flat. Add the uncooked egg noodles and pour in the chicken broth directly over them. Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the broth to a gentle boil. This method allows the noodles to soak up all those cozy flavors right from the beginning.

Step 2: Cook Until Tender

Once boiling, dial the heat back to medium. Let the noodles cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to keep them from sticking. In about 10 to 12 minutes, most of the broth will be absorbed and the noodles should be perfectly tender. If you like your noodles softer, add a splash more broth and cook another minute or two.

Step 3: Add Butter and Seasonings

Time for the fun part! Toss in the butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper directly into the hot noodles. Stir everything together until the butter melts completely and creates a glossy, buttery coating over the noodles. The aroma is irresistible at this point!

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan

With the pan still on low heat, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir another minute so the cheese melts and melds with the hot noodles, giving the dish a luscious, creamy bite throughout.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and, if you’re feeling fancy, shower the noodles with a handful of chopped fresh parsley. This last touch wakes up the dish with color and freshness. Serve your Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles piping hot and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles

Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Simple can be stunning—try a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan, freshly ground black pepper, or a scattering of parsley. If you love little pops of flavor, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil can take your Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles to the next level.

Side Dishes

These buttery noodles are the perfect backdrop for roasted chicken, grilled sausages, or even a pile of steamed veggies. They also shine on their own as a comforting main, especially with a simple green salad tossed alongside. However you plate them, their magic lies in their versatility!

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles high in a big family-style bowl for the ultimate comfort vibe. Or, serve in individual ramekins as a sophisticated side for a special dinner. Kids adore them straight from the pan, too—no judgment if you serve them up that way! Try topping with crispy breadcrumbs for a little crunch or mixing in leftover rotisserie chicken for an instant meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles keep surprisingly well! Just transfer cooled noodles to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay tasty for up to three days. The noodles may absorb some of that silky sauce as they sit, but they’ll still be delicious when reheated.

Freezing

While buttered noodles are at their best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Let the noodles cool completely, portion them into freezer bags or containers, and squeeze out excess air. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your noodles back to life, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water and a dab of butter. The added liquid helps revive their luxurious texture. A quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, but try to avoid overheating to prevent the noodles from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Side Dish

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for their soft, tender texture, you can use any short pasta you have on hand. Just keep in mind, cooking times and liquid absorption may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the skillet as it simmers.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Switch out chicken broth for vegetable broth—no other changes needed. The Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles will still have a deep, satisfying flavor that’s 100 percent vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add protein or veggies to this recipe?

Definitely! Stir in chopped cooked chicken, sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms during the last few minutes of simmering. Steamed peas or spinach are also great additions for a pop of color and nutrition.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Kids absolutely love the mild, buttery flavors and the soft texture of the noodles. Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles are perfect for picky eaters, and you can easily adjust the seasonings to taste.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

No Parmesan? No problem! You can use Pecorino Romano or another sharp, salty cheese, or even skip the cheese altogether—the noodles will still be wonderfully satisfying.

Final Thoughts

It’s truly impossible not to fall for the buttery, cozy charm of Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and how it invites endless tweaks to suit your mood or pantry. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with those warm, savory aromas—chances are, this will become one of your new weeknight favorites!

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Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe

Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles Recipe

4.6 from 26 reviews

These Easy One Pan Buttered Noodles are a simple and comforting side dish that comes together quickly in just one pan. Tender egg noodles are cooked in flavorful chicken broth, then tossed with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously creamy finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying dish in a hurry.

  • Author: nadia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

Egg Noodles:

  • 12 ounces egg noodles

Chicken Broth:

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Butter Mixture:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Finishing Touches:

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Noodles: In a large skillet or sauté pan, add the egg noodles and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until noodles are tender.
  2. Add Flavor: Stir in the butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, toss to combine, and garnish with parsley before serving warm.

Notes

  • For added protein, stir in cooked chicken or sausage.
  • Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
  • Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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