Slow Cooker Recipes: Easy Meals, Less Effort!
Family-friendly dishes for busy people — quick prep, delicious results.
Grab yours for $4When the week feels overwhelming, few dishes serve as a warm hug quite like buttered noodles. This timeless recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that everyone in the family can enjoy. Whether you’re wrangling kids after a long day at work or just need a cozy bowl of comfort, buttered noodles come to the rescue.
Their creamy, buttery goodness combined with a hint of garlic or herbs makes for a versatile dish. The best part? It’s quick and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. Get ready for delighted smiles and empty plates as we delve into this classic comfort food, one delicious noodle at a time.
Recipe Overview
This buttered noodles recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it takes just 15 minutes from start to finish.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving.
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile. You can add your family’s favorite proteins or vegetables for a complete meal. To make cooking even easier, consider using a Non-Stick Cooking Pot like the Farberware Smart Control Nonstick Stock Pot. Its non-stick surface ensures that your noodles won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup, saving you valuable time after dinner.
Additionally, having a Measuring Cups and Spoons Set can simplify the ingredient preparation process. Accurate measurements of your pasta and seasonings help maintain consistency in flavor, so each bowl of noodles is as delicious as the last. Enjoy a plate of these noodles knowing they are packed with comforting flavors and are ready in a jiffy!
Nutrition Information
When it comes to buttered noodles, they can be a comforting dish that fits into your family’s meal plans without breaking the bank. Let’s break down the nutritional aspects to keep you informed.
A typical serving contains:
– Calories: 400
– Total Fat: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 54g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 1g
– Protein: 10g
While buttered noodles may be higher in calories, they can be balanced with the addition of vegetables or lean proteins. You can easily incorporate these nutritious sides using a vegetable steamer basket. This premium stainless steel basket is adjustable to fit various pot sizes, making it perfect for steaming vegetables to complement your dish.
To cook your noodles to perfection, consider using a non-stick pot. With its Swiss granite coating and stay-cool handle, this little saucepan will help prevent your noodles from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Lastly, measuring the right ingredients is important for achieving the best flavor and texture. A measuring cups and spoons set can help you accurately portion out your butter and seasonings.
It’s all about moderation and pairing these noodles with nutritious sides to create a well-rounded meal. Happy cooking!
Ingredients List
To whip up a delightful batch of buttered noodles, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
– 8 oz of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or even egg noodles work beautifully) – consider the Pasta Variety Pack for a great selection.
– 4 tablespoons of high-quality unsalted butter to ensure a rich and creamy flavor.
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional but adds amazing flavor) – make your prep easier with an OXO Good Grips heavy duty garlic press.
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy touch)
These ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe not just easy but also budget-friendly. Feel free to get creative by adding in any leftover veggies or proteins you have on hand for a more filling dish.
When the day gets hectic, remember: sometimes all you need is a simple buttered noodles recipe to bring comfort back to the table. Quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to prepare your buttered noodles:
1. Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. For this, a great choice would be the pasta pot with strainer. It makes boiling pasta a breeze, and the built-in steamer basket helps to drain the water easily once your pasta is perfectly al dente.
2. Melt the Butter: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. A non-stick skillet, like the non-stick skillet, is ideal for this step, ensuring that your butter doesn’t stick, and you can easily toss the noodles later without any mess. If you’re using garlic, add it in and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. You can make this job easier with an OXO good grips heavy duty garlic press, which ensures you get every bit of flavor without the hassle.
3. Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of the pasta water for later. Drain the remaining water using the strainer in your pasta pot.
4. Combine: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the melted butter. Toss to coat, adding some reserved pasta water if the noodles seem dry.
5. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish: Finish with fresh herbs and cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
This step-by-step guide ensures that even novice cooks can master this delightful dish with ease, all while making the cooking process smoother with these handy products.
Tips for Making the Recipe the Best Way
To elevate your buttered noodles to the next level, consider these handy tips:
– Use quality ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality butter, such as MAPLE HILL CREAMERY Organic Grassfed Unsalted Butter, for the best flavor in your dish. The richness of grass-fed butter can truly enhance the overall taste of your noodles.
– Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep a close eye on cooking times; overcooked pasta can turn mushy. Aim for al dente for the perfect bite.
– Add flavor: Experiment with additional spices like McCormick Italian Seasoning to kick up the flavor. This blend can bring a delightful aroma to your dish. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten it up, adding a fresh note.
– Toppings matter: Don’t shy away from garnishing with Kikkoman Panko Japanese Style Toasted Breadcrumbs, nuts, or even cooked bacon for added texture and taste. Toasted breadcrumbs can provide a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy noodles beautifully.
Following these tips will ensure every bite of your buttered noodles is delicious and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about buttered noodles that can help you make the most of this dish:
– Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! You can easily substitute with whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. For instance, 365 by Whole Foods Market, organic whole wheat penne rigate is a great choice, and if you prefer gluten-free, try BARILLA gluten free spaghetti which is made from a blend of corn and rice.
– How can I store leftovers? Store any leftover buttered noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. I recommend the Rubbermaid Brilliance 16-cup airtight food storage container for optimal freshness. Just add a splash of water when reheating to loosen the noodles.
– Can I add vegetables or protein? Yes! Broccoli, peas, or grilled chicken make fantastic additions to turn this into a more filling dish.
– Is it possible to freeze the noodles? While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked pasta; just note that texture may change upon reheating.
These FAQs can ease any concerns and ensure your cooking experience is smooth and adaptable!
When it comes to buttered noodles, versatility is key! Swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, toss in your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a simple, satisfying meal for busy weeknights!
Variations to Try
Variety is the spice of life, and buttered noodles can easily adapt! Here are some exciting variations to keep things fresh:
– **Creamy Alfredo Style**: Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a rich Alfredo-style dish that will elevate your simple noodles into a comforting classic. The creaminess adds a luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible.
– **Pesto Twist**: Stir in pesto sauce for a burst of herbal flavor that will transport your taste buds. This vibrant addition not only enhances the taste but also brings a beautiful color to your dish.
– **Asian-Inspired**: Incorporate soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions for a delightful Asian twist. This combination creates a savory, umami-rich profile that complements the simplicity of the noodles perfectly.
– **Cheesy Noodles**: Mix in cream cheese or your favorite cheese, like Parmesan cheese, for a gooey, cheesy experience. The addition of cheese melts beautifully into the noodles, making every bite deliciously comforting.
These variations can turn a classic into something new and exciting, keeping dinner fun!
Mix it up! Buttered noodles aren’t just simple comfort food; they’re a blank canvas waiting for your culinary creativity. From creamy Alfredo to a zesty pesto twist, the possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions
To make your buttered noodles a complete meal, consider these serving suggestions:
– **Pair with a Salad**: A refreshing garden salad can balance the richness of the noodles. For an effortless way to wash your greens, the OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner is perfect for quickly spinning off excess water, ensuring your salad is crisp and delicious.
– **Add Protein**: Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or meatballs for a heartier meal.
– **Serve with Garlic Bread**: Nothing beats buttered noodles paired with warm, crispy garlic bread.
– **Finish with a Side Veggie**: Roasted or steamed vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Using a vegetable steamer basket makes it easy to prepare perfectly steamed veggies, enhancing your meal with both flavor and health benefits.
These serving ideas can transform a simple dish into an impressive dinner that’s sure to satisfy every member of your family.
Conclusion
Buttered noodles are a classic comfort that can be a lifesaver on busy nights. Their simplicity, paired with endless possibilities for customization, makes them a beloved dish for families everywhere.
Take a moment to enjoy making this recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients that your family loves. Happy cooking!
Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make buttered noodles?
Making buttered noodles is a breeze! You can have this comforting dish ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish. With only 5 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes for cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal idea.
Can I customize the buttered noodles with other ingredients?
Absolutely! The beauty of buttered noodles lies in their versatility. You can easily add ingredients like grated cheese, fresh herbs, or even vegetables to elevate the dish. Consider trying a creamy Alfredo style or tossing in some sautéed mushrooms for a delightful twist!
What types of pasta work best for buttered noodles?
You can use a variety of pasta types for buttered noodles! Popular choices include spaghetti, fettuccine, and even egg noodles. Feel free to experiment with your family’s favorites or even try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
How can I make buttered noodles healthier?
To make your buttered noodles a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You can also reduce the amount of butter and add a splash of olive oil instead. For extra nutrition, toss in some steamed veggies or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
What are some great sides to serve with buttered noodles?
Buttered noodles are delicious on their own, but pairing them with sides can make for a complete meal! Consider serving them with a garden salad to add freshness, or try a protein like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to round out the dish. You could also go for some garlic bread for a cozy comfort food experience!
