How To Make Old Fashioned Buttered Noodles
How To Make Old Fashioned Buttered Noodles is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 300 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking At Pam's Place on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 7 min | Total: 27 min
Cost: $3.15 total, $0.79 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 oz Wide Egg Noodles (about 1/2 pound, dry)
- 1 cube Chicken Bouillon (low‑sodium, dissolved in cooking water)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened or melted)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Gather Ingredients and Equipment
Measure out the noodles, bouillon, butter, and parsley. Set out the pot, colander, bowl, spoon, and measuring spoons.
Time: PT2M
Bring Water to a Boil
Fill the large pot with enough water to cover the noodles, bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
Time: PT5M
Add Chicken Bouillon
Drop the bouillon cube into the boiling water and stir until fully dissolved.
Time: PT1M
Cook the Noodles
Add the wide egg noodles, stir occasionally, and cook 5–7 minutes until al dente, following package directions.
Time: PT7M
Drain the Noodles
Pour the noodles into a colander to drain. Return them to the pot or a large bowl.
Time: PT2M
Melt the Butter
In a small saucepan or microwave, melt the butter until just liquid; do not let it brown.
Time: PT1M
Combine Noodles and Butter
Pour the melted butter over the hot noodles and toss with a wooden spoon until every strand is evenly coated.
Time: PT2M
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the buttered noodles to a serving dish, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and serve immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 300
- Protein
- 8g
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Fat
- 10g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten, Not vegan
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Wide Egg Noodles: Spaghetti, Fettuccine
- Instead of Chicken Bouillon: Chicken stock, Vegetable bouillon
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Olive oil (for a lighter flavor)
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: Dried parsley (use less)
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Spoons (optional)
- Knife (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Bring water to a rolling boil before adding noodles.
- Cook noodles al dente; overcooking makes them mushy.
- Melt butter gently without browning.
- Toss noodles while hot to ensure butter coating.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use high‑quality European‑style butter for richer flavor.
- Reserve a tablespoon of pasta water and add it with the butter for a silkier texture.
- Freshly chopped parsley adds both color and a bright herb note.
Troubleshooting
Noodles clump together after draining.
Toss them immediately with melted butter or a splash of the hot cooking water to keep them separate.
Butter coating is uneven.
Make sure the butter is fully melted and drizzle it slowly while tossing the hot noodles.
Noodles are too soft or mushy.
Reduce cooking time by a minute and test for al dente; rinse briefly with cold water if overcooked.
Dish tastes bland.
Use a low‑sodium bouillon and a good quality butter; add a pinch of extra salt if needed.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk or butter.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat, adding a little butter to restore richness.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the noodles ahead of time, toss with a little extra butter, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving.
- If freezing, portion into single‑serve bags and add fresh butter when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Old-Fashioned Buttered Noodles in American comfort food cuisine?
Buttered noodles have been a staple in American households since the early 20th century, offering a quick, inexpensive side that could stretch meat meals or stand alone during lean times. Their simplicity made them a go‑to comfort food for families across the country.
What regional variations of buttered noodles exist within the United States?
In the Midwest, buttered noodles are often served with a sprinkle of grated cheese, while in the South they may be enriched with a dash of hot sauce. Some New England families add a splash of cream for extra richness.
How are Old-Fashioned Buttered Noodles traditionally served in American home cooking?
They are typically plated hot, garnished with a little fresh parsley or chives, and served alongside meatloaf, fried chicken, or as a base for hearty stews. The dish is meant to be eaten immediately while the butter is still glossy.
During what occasions or celebrations are buttered noodles commonly prepared in American culture?
Buttered noodles appear at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals when a quick, crowd‑pleasing side is needed. They’re also a nostalgic comfort dish for casual weeknight dinners.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional Old-Fashioned Buttered Noodles versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional recipes call for wide egg noodles, real butter, and a pinch of salt or bouillon for seasoning. Substitutes can include any long pasta shape, margarine, or vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian version, though the flavor profile changes slightly.
What other American dishes pair well with Old-Fashioned Buttered Noodles?
They complement meatloaf, fried chicken, beef stew, meatball subs, and even baked casseroles. The buttery base also works well with sautéed vegetables for a quick vegetarian plate.
What makes Old-Fashioned Buttered Noodles special in American comfort cuisine?
The dish’s simplicity—just noodles, butter, and a hint of seasoning—highlights the quality of each ingredient. Its buttery sheen and soft texture provide a nostalgic, soothing mouthfeel that many associate with home‑cooked comfort.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Old-Fashioned Buttered Noodles at home?
Common errors include overcooking the noodles, not seasoning the cooking water, and allowing the butter to brown or burn. Overcooked noodles become mushy, while under‑seasoned water leaves the dish bland.
How do I know when Old-Fashioned Buttered Noodles are done cooking?
The noodles should be al dente—tender with a slight bite—after 5–7 minutes of boiling. Taste a strand; it should hold its shape without a hard center and not be mushy.
What does the YouTube channel Cooking At Pam's Place specialize in?
Cooking At Pam's Place focuses on easy, home‑cooked American comfort meals made from scratch, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that emphasize simple ingredients and approachable techniques for everyday cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Cooking At Pam's Place's approach to classic American dishes differ from other cooking channels?
Pam emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, clear narration, and practical tips like using bouillon for extra flavor, making classic dishes feel effortless for beginners while still delivering authentic taste.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
