Buttered Noodles is a simple, satisfying dish made by cooking pasta directly in a savory broth with butter until the liquid reduces to a rich sauce. Serve as a main dish with Herb Roasted Vegetables or as a side with Baked Pesto Tofu.
The No-Drain Method
I like this simple pasta because it’s made with budget-friendly ingredients that I pretty much always have on hand. This buttered noodles recipe even earned two hearty thumbs up from my picky 10-year old!
You don’t even have to drain the pasta water! Butter and water are emulsified during the cooking process to create the sauce. I’ll admit, I was hesitant to try this cooking method at first, but it totally works!
Ingredients for Buttered Noodles
Here’s what you will need. Exact amounts are listed in the recipe card below.
- Chicken-Style broth – The savory base the pasta cooks in. Better Than Bouillon’s No-Chicken Base is a great option.
- Butter – Use a good-quality butter for the best result.
- Rotini – Any medium-size pasta works well here. Rotini, farfalle, orecchiette, and cavatappi are all good choices. Traditional buttered noodle recipes call for egg noodles, but any medium-wide pasta works beautifully.
- Simple Seasonings – Garlic powder and ground black pepper add a warm, savory depth.
- Fresh Parsley – A light garnish to finish.
To Make it Vegan: Use plant-based butter and vegan chicken-style broth or vegetable broth.
How to Make Buttered Noodles
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 20 min | Servings: 4
STEP ONE: Start the Base. Set a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken-style broth and 5 tablespoons of butter. Bring to a boil, then add the pasta.
STEP TWO: Cook the Pasta. Reduce to a medium-low boil and cook, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has evaporated. Keep an eye on the heat; you want a steady, gentle boil so the liquid and pasta finish together. If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a small splash of broth and adjust the heat.
STEP THREE: Finish the Sauce. Add the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the butter is completely melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
STEP FOUR: Serve. Adjust seasoning to taste, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
How to Dress Up Buttered Noodles
Try one of these simple additions just before serving:
- Parmesan – Freshly grated over the top adds a savory, nutty depth.
- Red Pepper Flakes – A pinch adds a gentle heat that works well with the rich butter sauce.
- Truffle Oil – A light drizzle adds a subtle earthiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Buttered noodles are best served fresh. The pasta continues to absorb the sauce as it sits and can become dry and clumpy if made too far in advance. If you need to get ahead, the broth and butter base can be measured and ready to go so the recipe comes together quickly when needed.
Can this recipe be scaled up for a crowd?
Yes. The recipe doubles well. Use a large, wide pot to ensure the liquid reduces evenly and stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Can I use water instead of broth?
Yes, though the flavor will be noticeably more neutral. If using water, increase the garlic powder and add a generous pinch of salt to compensate for the seasoning the broth would otherwise provide.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a small splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
More Easy Pasta Recipes
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Buttered Noodles Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken-style broth
- 10 tablespoons butter divided
- 16 ounces rotini or other medium-wide pasta
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Set a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken-style broth and 5 tablespoons of butter. Bring to a boil, then add the pasta.
- Reduce to a medium-low boil and cook, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has evaporated. Keep an eye on the heat; you want a steady, gentle boil so the liquid and pasta finish together. If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a small splash of broth and adjust the heat.
- Add the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the butter is completely melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Nutrition
This post was updated on March 12, 2026.
Kayla
These buttered noodles were so delicious! They came together so easy and were the perfect weeknight meal!
Choclette
Buttered noodles are divine. Comfort food at its easiest and best.
Natalie
Buttered noodles is a classic but I haven’t made this dish for ages thank you for reminding me!
Melanie
What a delicious and easy recipe! Really like the suggestion to add a hint of truffle oil to the noodles!
Katie
These buttered noodles are fantastic! can’t wait to make them again!