There’s something wonderfully comforting about the flavorful simplicity of Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles. On a rainy evening not too long ago, I found myself rummaging through my pantry, which was a delightful escape from the chaos of daily life. With just a handful of ingredients, I crafted a dish that transformed a mundane night into a cozy culinary experience.
The magic happened as I melted butter in my skillet, the rich aroma blending with the heavenly scent of fresh garlic sizzling away. If you’re like me and often seek an alternative to bland fast food, then this dish is a lifesaver. It comes together in mere minutes yet feels like a warm hug from the kitchen!
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing a loved one, these garlic butter noodles are a canvas—ready for any tweaks you fancy. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to elevate your weeknight meals without breaking a sweat!
Why are Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe requires just a few ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Burst: The rich garlic butter sauce combined with Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience that excites your taste buds.
Time-Saving: Ready in under 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal without the hassle.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your cravings or dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for all ages, this dish will win over family and friends alike, becoming an instant favorite at your dining table.
Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles Ingredients
For the Noodles
• Wide egg noodles – 8 oz; these help hold the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp; using unsalted allows you to control the salt level better.
• Fresh garlic – 4 cloves, minced; the star ingredient that gives this dish its aromatic punch!
For the Finishing Touch
• Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup; it adds a rich, creamy texture and savory flavor.
• Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped; brighten up the dish with a pop of freshness.
• Salt – to taste; season until it’s just right for your palate.
Feel free to adjust these ingredients to make your own version of these Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles!
How to Make Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles
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Boil Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly and starts to foam, about 1-2 minutes. This creates the perfect base for the sauce.
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Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden. Stir continuously to prevent burning and to enhance the flavor.
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Combine Noodles: Drain any excess water from the cooked noodles, then add them directly to the skillet. Toss gently in the garlic butter until the noodles are nicely coated, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add Cheese and Parsley: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, mixing until everything is well combined and the cheese starts to melt, creating a creamy consistency.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste, tossing once more to ensure even distribution. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh black pepper.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles
Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced to achieve the best flavor explosion in your noodles.
Cook Al Dente: Ensure you cook the wide egg noodles until al dente; this gives them the perfect texture and helps them absorb the garlic butter sauce nicely.
Balance Flavor: Taste and adjust salt levels after adding Parmesan; it can add a good amount of saltiness to the dish.
Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter; it greatly enhances the richness of the sauce and the overall taste of your Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to toss in sautéed vegetables or proteins, like chicken or shrimp, to personalize your dish and boost its nutritional value!
What to Serve with Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles?
The perfect addition to your comforting dish awaits, creating a delightful feast for the senses.
- Garlic Bread: This classic side complements the flavors beautifully, perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots or zucchini tossed in olive oil add freshness and a touch of sweetness, enhancing your meal. A vibrant rainbow on your plate not only looks appealing but brings a balance of textures.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and savory dressing offer a refreshing crunch, making your pasta experience lighter yet satisfying.
- Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy, grilled chicken adds a protein punch; it pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the noodles for a complete meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant green provides a nutritious element that adds both color and a slight crunch to offset the rich noodles.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal’s flavors, complimenting the garlic and butter with its crisp notes.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light and airy treat rounds off the dining experience with a sweet finish that’s simply irresistible.
- Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing dessert is a delightful palate cleanser between bites, cutting through the richness of the noodles.
Pair these delicious options to elevate your dining experience and enjoy a cozy dinner with loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles
Fridge: Store leftover noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to bring them back to life.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze, pack the noodles in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they’re well-sealed. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter or oil to restore the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
Avoid Moisture: To prevent clumping, ensure the noodles are cooled completely before storing, especially if you’re freezing the Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles.
Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles Variations
Ready to put your own spin on these cozy noodles? Let’s unleash your creativity in the kitchen!
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast, giving you a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Veggie Twist: Toss in some sautéed spinach or broccoli for a vibrant, nutritious addition that complements the noodles beautifully.
- Protein-Packed: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish that turns these noodles into a complete meal.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give your garlic butter noodles an exciting heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh thyme or basil instead of parsley for a different herby dimension in flavor.
- Mushroom Delight: Sauté fresh mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy, savory note that pairs perfectly with the buttery sauce.
- Italian Style: Include a splash of balsamic vinegar and some cherry tomatoes for a zesty twist that dances with flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a savory crunch that elevates each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles are fantastic for meal prep, making your weeknights so much easier! You can cook the wide egg noodles and sauté the garlic in butter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the garlic butter mixture in another container to maintain their flavors. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the garlic butter in a skillet, toss in the noodles, add the Parmesan cheese and parsley, and season. This method ensures you enjoy your comforting noodles just as deliciously as if you made them fresh!
Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles should I use for Garlic Butter Egg Noodles?
I recommend using wide egg noodles, as they have the perfect texture for holding onto the rich garlic butter sauce. They can absorb the flavors beautifully, making each bite a delight.
How long can I store leftover Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles?
Store your leftover noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to gently bring them back to life without drying them out.
Can I freeze Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles?
Absolutely! To freeze, pack the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter or oil.
My noodles turned mushy. What went wrong?
If your noodles turned mushy, it might be due to overcooking. Make sure to cook them just until al dente (firm to the bite) as they continue to cook slightly after being drained. Always test them a minute or two before the package’s recommended cooking time—better safe than soggy!
Can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can use gluten-free wide noodles. For a dairy-free version, try substituting the butter with a vegan alternative and using nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. Customize it to fit your palate and dietary needs!
Is there a good way to prevent the noodles from sticking together after cooking?
To prevent sticking, ensure you stir the noodles immediately after draining, and importantly, don’t let them sit for too long before combining them with the garlic butter. A drizzle of olive oil can also help keep them separate if you’re not mixing them right away.
Quick Garlic Butter Egg Noodles: A Cozy Weeknight Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly and starts to foam, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
- Drain any excess water from the cooked noodles, then add them directly to the skillet. Toss gently in the garlic butter until the noodles are nicely coated, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, mixing until everything is well combined and the cheese starts to melt.
- Season with salt to taste, tossing once more to ensure even distribution. Serve warm.