If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, simple side or a quick main that bursts with flavor, my Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe is the answer you didn’t know you needed. This dish takes humble egg noodles and elevates them with rich butter, bright garlic, and fresh parsley, creating a perfect harmony of buttery goodness and herbal freshness. It’s incredibly easy to prepare but full of heartwarming taste, making it an absolute favorite for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you crave some cozy, satisfying pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe relies on just a handful of basic ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. Nothing too fancy, but every element brings something special to the table.
- 16 ounces dry egg noodles: The soft, tender foundation that absorbs all the delicious butter and garlic flavors perfectly.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star ingredient that coats the noodles in luscious richness without overpowering.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant, savory punch that wakes up every bite.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, vibrant green contrast and a subtle peppery bite to brighten the dish.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For topping, lending a nutty, salty finish that’s pure bliss.
How to Make Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Begin by cooking your egg noodles just until al dente according to the package instructions. Cooking them perfectly ensures that they’re tender yet have a slight bite, which is key to this dish’s satisfying texture. Once cooked, be sure to drain them well to avoid any excess water diluting the rich butter sauce.
Step 2: Combine Noodles and Butter
After draining, return the noodles to the pot or a large pan. This step might seem simple, but it’s important because it allows the noodles to soak up all the warmth and flavor from the butter and garlic in the next step.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Butter, and Parsley
Immediately stir in the butter while the noodles are still hot so it melts evenly, coating each strand luxuriously. Then, add the minced garlic and fresh parsley. The heat from the noodles helps release the garlicky aroma and the parsley’s brightness, marrying everything into one irresistible dish. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to bring the flavors to life.
Step 4: Serve with Parmesan Cheese
Finish by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, if you like. It adds a savory depth and a touch of creaminess that perfectly complements the buttery noodles. This last flourish makes the dish feel a bit more special, without complicating your preparation.
How to Serve Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe pop visually and flavor-wise, consider adding extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a subtle heat. Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds bring a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft noodles.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a perfect side to roasted meats such as chicken, beef brisket, or pork tenderloin. It also pairs beautifully with sautéed vegetables or a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a lighter option. The buttery noodles can soak up any sauces from the main dish, making your meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the noodles in small, individual ramekins topped with a parsley sprig and extra Parmesan. Guests always appreciate a thoughtfully plated dish. Alternatively, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions before serving to transform this simple recipe into a more decadent side or light main course.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb the flavors even more, though the texture might soften slightly, making them ideal for a quick reheat.
Freezing
While you can freeze these noodles, the texture may change after thawing. To freeze, place noodles in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve the buttery goodness without drying out.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep noodles moist and creamy. Microwave reheating is also possible but stir halfway through to prevent uneven heating. This way, you’ll keep that fresh-from-the-pan taste alive.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and tender, you can use other pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they reach al dente texture.
Is fresh parsley necessary or can I use dried?
Fresh parsley offers the best bright flavor and vibrant color, which really elevates this recipe. If you only have dried, use about a tablespoon, though the flavor won’t be quite as fresh or lively.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken strips, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu cubes make perfect additions to turn this into a full meal while complementing the buttery garlic notes.
How do I make the garlic flavor milder?
If you prefer a subtler garlic taste, lightly sauté the garlic in butter before mixing it into the noodles. This mellows the pungency while still imparting wonderful aromatic warmth.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe is quick, easy, and reheats well, making it an excellent choice for preparing meals in advance without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe a try next time you want a fuss-free, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. The combination of buttery richness, garlicky kick, and fresh parsley is simply irresistible, and once you make it, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to comfort foods too!
Print
Buttered Egg Noodles with Garlic and Parsley Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Buttered Noodles recipe is a simple and comforting dish perfect for a quick meal. Made with tender egg noodles tossed in rich butter, fresh garlic, and parsley, it delivers a flavorful, buttery taste with minimal effort. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an optional savory finish.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 16 ounces dry egg noodles (1 bag)
Butter Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (¾ stick)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Topping (Optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes.
- Drain and return to pan: Drain the cooked noodles well in a colander and transfer them back to the warm pot or pan to prepare for seasoning.
- Toss with butter and aromatics: Add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley to the noodles. Stir gently until the butter melts completely and coats the noodles evenly. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve with optional cheese: Plate the buttered noodles and if desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory flavor enhancement.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality unsalted butter.
- Fresh garlic can be lightly sautéed in the butter before tossing if you prefer a milder garlic taste.
- Parsley not only adds freshness but also a nice color contrast.
- Grated Parmesan cheese is optional but highly recommended for cheese lovers.
- Can be customized by adding cooked vegetables or protein such as chicken or shrimp.
