Cafeteria Noodles
These Cafeteria Noodles remind me of the kind you’d get on a lunch tray at school. Simple, buttery, and comforting! They’re make with just a few ingredients and come together fast, which makes them perfect for busy nights when you need a quick side dish that everyone will eat.
Are you looking for more easy side dishes? Try our Fried Potatoes & Onions, Baked Beans, or Beanie Weenies.
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If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok, you’ve probably seen recipes like these TikTok cafeteria noodles trending, and for good reason! This recipe uses simple, budget-friendly pantry ingredients, making it perfect for busy families.
I used milk instead of chicken broth because it’s cheaper, always in the fridge, and still makes a rich, creamy sauce. It’s an easy way to whip up these noodles anytime without needing special ingredients or an extra trip to the store.
What you’ll love about these Cafeteria Noodles:
Recipe Ingredients:
You’ll need the following ingredients to make amazing Buttered Noodles Recipe:
- Egg noodles
- Stick of butter
- Cream of chicken soup
- Whole milk
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Ingredient Notes:
- Egg Noodles: Wide noodles are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce in this nostalgic dish.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: A classic choice for creating a smooth, flavorful base. Feel free to try other cream soups like cream of mushroom or celery.
- Stick of Butter: Adds richness and a comforting, old-school taste.
How to make Cafeteria Noodles Step-by-Step:
Check out the quick visual guides below. For full instructions and ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the end.
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until smooth.
Step 3: Return the cooked noodles to the pot. Toss until the noodles are fully coated in the sauce.
PRO TIP:
For extra flavor, stir in shredded chicken or top the noodles with grated Parmesan before serving.
Storage and Reheating:
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or a splash of water to keep the noodles creamy.
To Freeze: Not recommended, as the noodles may become mushy when reheated.
Additions and Substitutions:
ADDITIONS:
- Shredded Chicken: Turn this dish into a heartier main course by adding cooked, shredded chicken.
- Vegetables: Stir in peas or steamed broccoli to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Bacon Bits: Sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon on top for a savory crunch.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Swap with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
- Milk: Use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Butter: Substitute with margarine or olive oil if you prefer.
FAQs about these Buttered Noodles:
Why Are They Called Cafeteria Noodles?
These noodles are a throwback to the creamy, buttery dishes served in school cafeterias. Thanks to TikTok, they’re making a comeback as a simple, comforting recipe everyone loves to recreate at home.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Sure! Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti can work, but egg noodles are the most traditional for this noodle dish.
How do I make it healthier?
Substitute low-fat condensed soup, reduce the butter slightly, or add vegetables like spinach or peas for a lighter version.
What can I serve with this buttered noodle?
Serve these old-school cafeteria noodles alongside pot roast, green beans, or a fresh salad. They also go great with pork chops or meatloaf for a complete, comforting meal.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
I’m excited for you to try these Cafeteria Noodles! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – I’m eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do!
Cafeteria Noodles
Ingredients
- 16 ounces wide egg noodles
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring until smooth.
- Return the cooked noodles to the pot and toss until they are fully coated in the sauce mixture.
- Serve hot.
Notes
Pro Tip:
For extra flavor, stir in shredded chicken or top the noodles with grated Parmesan before serving.Nutrition
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Yum yum good
This recipe is absolutely delicious! My whole family loved it even my picky eater!
Hi Mandi! So glad to hear!