How to make butter noodles

We’ve all been there: a long day of work or school leaves you with little time or energy to whip up an elaborate meal, yet your stomach is rumbling for something comforting. As you rummage through your pantry, you stumble upon a familiar, simple dish that evokes childhood memories–butter noodles. With just a few basic ingredients on hand, you ponder the simplest way to satiate your cravings. So, how do you make butter noodles quickly and effortlessly?

To make butter noodles, start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the cooking water. Return the pasta to the pot, add butter and a splash of the reserved pasta water, and stir until the butter melts and coats the noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and finish with grated cheese or herbs if desired.

To elaborate, begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Make sure to add a generous amount of salt–about a tablespoon per gallon of water–to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Once the water is bubbling vigorously, add your pasta of choice; egg noodles, spaghetti, or any short pasta works great for this dish. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the package for cooking times, and aim for al dente, which usually means the pasta should be firm to the bite but cooked through.

While the pasta cooks, prepare your butter. You can use unsalted or salted butter, depending on your taste preference. Typically, 2 to 4 tablespoons of butter are sufficient for a serving of 2 to 4 people. If you like a little extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic, herbs like parsley or basil, or even a sprinkle of grated cheese during the final steps.

Once the pasta is done, reserve about a cup of the starchy cooking water before draining. This water can help create a silky sauce. Return the drained pasta to the pot and add the butter. Stir it around over low heat until the butter melts. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper, and if you chose to include them, sprinkle on your herbs or cheese before serving. In less than 15 minutes, you can enjoy a dish that’s both simple and satisfying!