Buttered Noodles Recipe
You may be wondering: "Do I really need a recipe for buttered noodles?" The answer, of course, is yes. This kid-friendly recipe results in perfect noodles tossed in exactly the right amount of butter. Once you try these four-ingredient buttered noodles, you'll never go back to your old method again.
Buttered Noodles Ingredients
Believe it or not, you can make this incredibly simple dish with just four ingredients:
- Noodles: This recipe calls for fettuccine noodles, but you could use any noodles you have on hand, from penne to spaghetti.
- Butter: You can use salted or unsalted butter. Since you'll add more salt at the end, you might want to opt for unsalted (depending on your taste, of course).
- Parmesan: Grated Parmesan cheese takes this dish up a notch. Buttered noodles don't technically require cheese, so you can leave it out if you want.
- Salt and Pepper: Finish off this easy buttered noodles recipe with salt and ground black pepper.
Optional Additions
You don't need to add anything to this buttered noodles recipe, especially if you want to keep things super simple. However, you could shake things up a bit with one (or more) of the following additions:
- Broccoli, asparagus, herbs (such as parsley or basil), shrimp, sausage, chicken, minced or powdered garlic, and crushed red pepper.
How to Make Buttered Noodles
It really couldn't be simpler to make buttered noodles at home. Here's a quick overview of what to expect:
- Boil the fettuccine: Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in fettuccine and cook over medium heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender yet firm to the bite.
- Drain the pasta: Once the noodles are ready, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot.
- Mix the ingredients: Add butter, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper to the cooked noodles. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy your perfectly buttered noodles!
Recipe Tip
If you prefer less saucy noodles, use 4 tablespoons of butter instead of more for a lighter dish.
What to Serve With Buttered Noodles
The beauty of buttered noodles is their versatility - they can be served as either a side dish or a main course. What you pair with them depends on how you're serving it.
As a Side Dish
Buttered noodles make a great, carb-loaded side dish for hearty mains. They're a perfect substitute for mashed potatoes in almost any meal. Try them with:
- Garlic Chicken
- Easy Meatloaf
- Quinoa Black Bean Burgers
Explore our entire collection of Main Dish Recipes.
As a Main Dish
If you're serving buttered noodles as the main dish, pair them with one of these light sides:
- Roasted Garlic Lemon Broccoli
- Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad
- Roasted Vegetable Medley
Explore our entire collection of Side Dish Recipes.
How to Store Buttered Noodles
Store your leftover buttered noodles in an airtight in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove when ready to enjoy again.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving of buttered noodles contains approximately:
| Nutrition Fact | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 294 |
| Total Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 26mg |
| Sodium | 135mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 41g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Calcium | 51mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
| Potassium | 113mg |
Community Praise
Heres what some of our readers have said about this recipe:
- Reginamarie: "Perfect side dish! Always looking for recipes that can easily be made low sodium! I used unsalted butter and seasoned it with a little garlic powder and pepper! Hubby and I both loved it! Thanks for the recipe!"
- Peggy: "Definitely would make them again! The grandchildren said they were the best noodles they ever had! They want them with every meal now! We all loved them!"
- Lisa Noel Rodgers: "I was a bit hesitant because there were so few ingredients, but these noodles turned out really good! I didn't need to add anything."

Buttered noodles, a dish that may seem almost too simple to be a recipe, has a long-standing history and is beloved across various cultures. It is a versatile and comforting dish that has been a favorite in many households. Below we dive into the origin, regional variations, and fascinating facts surrounding this simple, yet beloved meal.
History of Buttered Noodles
The origins of buttered noodles are believed to stem from traditional European cooking. In Italy, a similar dish called "fettuccine al burro" is served, where pasta is tossed in butter and sometimes enhanced with Parmesan cheese. This simple preparation was likely born out of necessity, as it utilizes inexpensive ingredients that were easily accessible. During times of economic hardship, such as the Great Depression and World War II, buttered noodles provided a satisfying, hearty meal at a low cost. Its popularity has since spread around the world, with countless variations emerging, each reflecting local preferences and available ingredients.
Regional Variations of Buttered Noodles
While buttered noodles are often considered a basic recipe, different regions have put their spin on the dish. In Italy, for example, "fettuccine al burro" is often paired with rich, creamy sauces or served as a side dish to complement meat-based dishes. In the United States, buttered noodles are frequently enjoyed as a quick and simple main dish or as a side accompanying roasted meats, meatballs, or even stews. In Scandinavian countries, buttered noodles are often served alongside Swedish meatballs, creating a comfort food combination that has stood the test of time.
How Buttered Noodles Differ from Similar Dishes
Buttered noodles stand out from similar pasta dishes like mac and cheese or spaghetti aglio e olio due to their simplicity. Unlike mac and cheese, which is rich and cheesy, buttered noodles are focused on the delicate flavor of butter, often seasoned with just salt and pepper. In contrast to spaghetti aglio e olio, which relies on garlic and olive oil, buttered noodles offer a softer, milder flavor. The absence of a heavy sauce or complex ingredients makes buttered noodles a light, comforting meal that can be customized with additional toppings, such as herbs, cheese, or vegetables.
Where Buttered Noodles Are Typically Served
Buttered noodles are a common feature in many homes, often served as a side dish to accompany meatballs, chicken, or roasted vegetables. They can also be served as a simple main course, especially for children or as a quick weeknight dinner. Their versatility makes them a great addition to any mealwhether it's a hearty family dinner, a casual lunch, or a comforting side dish for festive gatherings. They are particularly popular in European and American cuisines but have also found a place in homes around the world due to their easy preparation and satisfying nature.
Interesting Facts About Buttered Noodles
- Buttered noodles are one of the first recipes many children learn to cook, making them a nostalgic comfort food for many people.
- In some regions, buttered noodles are referred to as "poor man's fettucine," due to their humble ingredients and affordability during times of scarcity.
- Variations of buttered noodles can be found in many cultures, from "spaghetti aglio e olio" in Italy to "buttered egg noodles" in Eastern Europe.
- Adding a bit of pasta cooking water to the buttered noodles helps emulsify the sauce, creating a creamy and perfectly coated finish.
- Many people enjoy buttered noodles with extra toppings such as grated cheese, sauted vegetables, or even a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
Whether you enjoy them with a sprinkle of Parmesan, a few herbs, or just as they are, buttered noodles are a universally loved dish that continues to bring comfort and satisfaction to people around the world.
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FAQ about Buttered Noodles Recipe
Comments
Aaron Harris
03/14/2024 03:31:38 PM
I rated it 5 stars because some people were making sarcastic remarks about how simple the recipe was. It's important to remember that there are beginners who are just starting to learn how to cook. These posts are not only about sharing recipes, but also about sharing knowledge and helping others to learn. Let's be kind.
Frank Roberts
08/29/2024 12:26:33 PM
I have been using this recipe for years as well. I appreciate its simplicity and how comforting it is without being dull. Occasionally, I like to sprinkle in some hot pepper flakes or add an egg, but I prefer to keep it simple without too many additions. For those who criticize the basic nature of this recipe, it's important to remember that not everyone is an experienced cook. The guidance provided is meant to assist those who may require it. Furthermore, even a small mistake in the butter measurement can negatively impact the final dish.
Benjamin Gonzalez
09/12/2022 07:41:22 PM
The experience was fantastic. I added sautéed garlic, which truly enhanced the dish.
Rachel Smith
01/25/2025 01:34:12 PM
This dish is a beloved comfort food in our family. We opt for egg noodles and cottage cheese instead of parmesan, giving it a unique twist. My mother referred to it as "poor man's fettucine," likely a recipe from the Depression era or WWII. It's a dish I grew up with, passed down to my kids, and, hopefully, will be enjoyed by my future grandchildren.
John Smith
05/05/2025 05:33:05 AM
I prepared this dish using spaghetti noodles broken in half. While pasta with butter may seem like a simple and common dish, I decided to elevate it by browning the butter before mixing it with the spaghetti. I then added a touch of salt and pepper, and sprinkled some Parmesan cheese on my plate as I enjoyed my meal. The browned butter truly elevated the flavor of this dish, adding a delicious richness with those crunchy browned bits that made it exceptionally tasty.
Nathan Ramirez
12/10/2024 12:50:26 AM
Added 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese. The result was absolutely delicious! I will definitely be making this recipe again and again.
Jonathan King
11/25/2023 09:25:06 AM
This recipe is easy to make and delicious, but I like to enhance it by lightly browning butter in a bit of olive oil before mixing it with the pasta. Sometimes, I also like to sauté some chopped garlic with the butter for extra flavor, depending on my mood.
Helen Evans
03/11/2025 04:29:19 PM
My mother passed down the recipe for this dish to me. It's a classic Italian way of enjoying pasta known as fettuccine al burro. The recipe originates from my great-grandfather, an Italian immigrant, who shared it with his wife. She then passed it on to my mother, who in turn taught me. Our family's version involves a generous amount of butter and cheese, with half a cup of each, along with a touch of the pasta cooking water to create a smooth emulsion.
Aaron Nelson
02/16/2024 09:48:06 AM
I was starting to feel hungry and thinking about lunch when I checked my email today. I decided to go for it, even though my only cooking option is a microwave. Opting for ramen noodles, I discarded the seasoning packet. Since the noodle brick was only 3oz, I adjusted the other ingredients to 3/16 of the recipe's amounts. I made buttered noodles and then added a packet of lemon pepper tuna. It turned out to be a satisfying lunch, although I regretted not adding the half can of peas sitting in the fridge. This dish will likely become a go-to side that I'll upgrade to a main by experimenting with additional ingredients.
Joshua Parker
07/01/2023 10:53:30 PM
I absolutely enjoy preparing and serving this dish with Swedish meatballs. Don't forget to reserve a cup of pasta water, as you'll need to incorporate some or all of it to emulsify the buttery sauce. This step is crucial. Typically, I gradually mix in the pasta water after adding half of the Parmesan, then finish with the remaining cheese and possibly more water. The pasta water is key in creating a creamy sauce; without it, the dish would be bland and the cheese would clump together.
Kimberly Collins
08/14/2024 02:35:20 AM
This dish was my favorite in childhood, and the additional Parmesan cheese is simply perfect! I still make this easy recipe whenever I crave quick and delicious comfort food. Now, as an adult, I like to add some shredded mozzarella cheese (readily available in bags at any grocery store) that melts beautifully on top of or mixed into the hot noodles or pasta along with the butter. It's absolutely delicious! I even throw in some pre-packaged steamed veggies into the mix for extra flavor and convenience. Just pop them in the microwave - easy as pie!
Michelle Miller
06/26/2024 07:55:53 AM
This dish is absolutely amazing! I turned it into a full meal by incorporating asparagus, spinach, and shrimp. I prepared a delightful seasoned butter with salted butter, garlic, chives, spicy chilis, and basil. I took the extra step of browning the butter before tossing it with the noodles, and kept some pasta water on standby in case I needed to adjust the sauce consistency. I am absolutely in love with this recipe - it's a winner!
Katherine Jones
04/23/2023 09:59:49 PM
My family absolutely enjoyed it! I decided to enhance the flavor by incorporating 5 cloves of pressed garlic into the butter and adding red pepper flakes for a bit of spiciness. The end result was absolutely delicious.
Helen Lee
11/07/2023 04:40:04 PM
My family absolutely adored this, thank you so much!
Nicholas Garcia
10/08/2024 09:59:26 PM
This recipe is incredibly simple and always turns out delicious! When my kids were leaving home, I gifted them a collection of recipes, and this one was a must-have. It's quick, budget-friendly, and most importantly, mouthwatering.
Jerry Allen
01/05/2025 03:55:27 AM
A pleasant departure from plain buttered pasta.
Jose Miller
05/04/2023 05:22:56 AM
I appreciate seeing this post. As a mature adult, I sometimes feel hesitant about enjoying something like buttered noodles for a meal. This post felt like a reassurance that it's perfectly fine. While I did customize the dish with a splash of lemon juice and other ingredients to suit my taste, the essence of the original recipe was preserved and that's what mattered the most.
Kathleen Wright
01/12/2023 03:31:07 PM
It's disheartening to see unkind comments about a simple recipe. If it doesn't appeal to you, simply scroll past. This dish holds special memories for many, evoking feelings of childhood and home. I recall it as the first recipe my siblings and I mastered on our own. What mattered to us was having some form of pasta, lots of butter, and salt. The fancier ingredients came later. Teaching my children to cook it was a cherished moment, guiding them not just in boiling water, but in cooking pasta to perfection. The original recipe may suit the creator's family, but I like to add my own touches like extra garlic, broccoli, or shredded rotisserie chicken. Remember, if you can't offer constructive feedback, it's best to stay silent.
Nathan Thomas
01/18/2023 02:18:46 AM
Who can resist the classic combination of buttered noodles and parmesan cheese?
Emma Lopez
10/09/2023 05:19:56 AM
I substituted bowtie noodles for fettuccine noodles and the dish turned out just as great. It's uncomplicated yet delicious.