Buttered Noodles Recipe

Egg noodles: These are the base of the dish, providing a rich and slightly chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the butter.

Butter: Adds a creamy, rich flavor that coats the noodles beautifully.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish, making the butter and noodles taste even better.

Parsley: An optional garnish that adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color to the finished dish.

When cooking egg noodles, ensure you use a large pot with plenty of water to allow the noodles to move freely and cook evenly. Adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water enhances the flavor of the noodles. After draining, return the noodles to the pot immediately and add the butter while the noodles are still hot, which helps the butter melt quickly and coat the noodles evenly. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving.

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

• egg noodles - Substitute with spaghetti: Spaghetti is widely available and can be used in place of egg noodles for a similar result.

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

• 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 has a more complex flavor profile and can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped basil: Basil adds a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the buttered noodles.

• chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped chives: Chives provide a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of color.

• Allow the buttered noodles to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the noodles soggy.
• Transfer the cooled noodles to an airtight container. Ensure the lid is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The noodles will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you plan to store the noodles for a longer period, consider freezing them. Portion the noodles into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the containers with the date to keep track of their storage time. Frozen buttered noodles can last up to 2 months.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. For a quicker option, use the microwave's defrost setting.
• Reheat the noodles on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the noodles in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• If the noodles seem dry after reheating, add a small amount of butter or olive oil to restore their creamy texture.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or other herbs to revive their flavor and presentation before serving.

• 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 noodles.
  4. Stir occasionally, ensuring the noodles are evenly heated. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  5. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to moisten them.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the noodles in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or a splash of water to keep them from drying out.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Check the temperature and heat in additional 30-second intervals if needed.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the noodles in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Add a few pats of butter or a splash of broth to keep them moist.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
  5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  2. Place the noodles in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

• Sous Vide Method:

  1. Place the 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 heat for about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Remove from the bag and serve immediately.

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

• Colander: Essential for draining the cooked noodles.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the noodles with butter and salt to ensure even coating.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt and optional parsley accurately.

• Knife: Used for chopping the parsley if you choose to garnish the dish.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the parsley.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out butter, salt, and parsley before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Use one pot: Cook and mix the egg noodles in the same pot to minimize cleanup time.

Quick melt: Cut the butter into smaller pieces to help it melt faster when added to the hot noodles.

Instant garnish: Use pre-chopped parsley or skip it entirely if you're in a rush.