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Parmesan Noodles

Parmesan Noodles

Creamy Parmesan Noodles are a quick and comforting pasta dish featuring traditional egg noodles coated in a rich, buttery Parmesan sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe combines simple pantry staples into a warm, cheesy meal perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying dinner any day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz egg noodles or fettuccine pasta
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Chopped fresh basil (optional)
  • Toasted pine nuts (optional)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the cooking water, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer while stirring continuously.
  3. Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all the noodles evenly. Cook together for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley (or basil) over the dish for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy for the best experience.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor; pre-grated cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce thickness and help the sauce cling to the noodles.
  • Keep the cream sauce on low to medium heat to prevent curdling — avoid boiling.
  • Do not overcook pasta; slightly firm noodles hold sauce better.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as you go to balance salt, pepper, and garlic perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Parmesan noodles, creamy pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, cheesy pasta