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Easy Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe for Quick 5-Minute Dinner

creamy buttered noodles - featured image

A quick and comforting creamy buttered noodles recipe ready in just 5 minutes, perfect for busy nights or last-minute meals. Made with simple pantry staples, it delivers rich, buttery flavor with a velvety texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) egg noodles or pasta of choice (spaghetti or fusilli can be substituted)
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (whole milk can be used as a lighter alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) salt for pasta water, plus a pinch for seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with 4 quarts (3.8 liters) of water, add 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
  2. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 4 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Drain the noodles using a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the hot pasta water.
  4. Return the hot noodles to the pot or transfer to a large skillet over low heat.
  5. Add 4 tablespoons (56 grams) of softened unsalted butter and 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream. Stir gently to melt the butter and coat the noodles evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  6. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir and let warm through for about 1 minute.
  7. If using, sprinkle 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or chives. Toss gently to combine.
  8. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for faster melting and smoother sauce. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid overcooking pasta to prevent mushiness. Add cream slowly or warm it slightly to avoid sauce seizing. Optional additions include garlic, spinach, or herbs for variation. Leftovers can be stored up to 3 days and reheated with added cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttered noodles, creamy noodles, quick dinner, easy pasta, comfort food, 5-minute recipe, simple ingredients