Creamy Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Cafeteria Noodles are a comforting and easy-to-make dish that brings back nostalgic flavors. With tender egg noodles cooked in a rich, creamy chicken broth sauce, this recipe is perfect for a simple weeknight meal or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 32 oz low sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- Pepper to taste
- ½ stick butter
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot with a lid, pour the chicken broth and heat over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Stir in the chicken bouillon and pepper until dissolved.
- Step 3: Add the cream of chicken soup and butter, stirring continuously until the butter melts and the mixture is well combined.
- Step 4: Add the egg noodles to the pot, spreading them evenly so they are fully submerged in the liquid.
- Step 5: Allow the noodles to boil uncovered for 2 minutes, then cover the pot with the lid and turn off the heat, leaving the pot on the burner.
- Step 6: Let the noodles cook with the lid on for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and soften completely.
- Step 7: Remove the lid, stir the noodles gently, garnish with parsley if desired, and let them cool slightly to thicken before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
- Use fresh parsley or chives for garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Try adding cooked shredded chicken or vegetables like peas for a heartier meal.
- If you prefer less salty noodles, reduce the chicken bouillon to 1 teaspoon or use salt-free chicken broth.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it tends to thicken in the fridge. Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, while egg noodles work best for their texture and flavor, you can substitute with other pasta shapes such as fusilli, rotini, or fettuccine. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with an equal amount of cream of mushroom soup or make a quick homemade roux-based chicken sauce using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk.
Print
Creamy Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Cafeteria Noodles recipe delivers a nostalgic, comforting dish that’s rich, creamy, and quick to prepare. Tender egg noodles simmered in a savory blend of chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, chicken bouillon, and butter create velvety, flavorful noodles perfect for a simple family meal or a cozy side dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz Egg Noodles
- 32 oz Chicken Broth (low sodium)
- 2 teaspoons Chicken Bouillon
- 10.5 oz Cream of Chicken Soup
- ½ stick Butter (about 4 tablespoons)
- Pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Broth: In a large pot with a lid, pour in the chicken broth and place over medium-high heat to warm.
- Add Seasonings and Soup: Stir in the chicken bouillon and pepper until dissolved and blended. Then add the cream of chicken soup and butter, stirring continuously until the butter melts and all ingredients are well combined.
- Add Egg Noodles: Introduce the egg noodles to the pot, spreading them out so they are evenly submerged in the creamy broth mixture.
- Boil then Simmer: Allow the noodles to boil uncovered for 2 minutes to start the cooking process.
- Steep with Lid On: Immediately cover the pot with its lid and turn off the heat, leaving the pot on the same burner to keep residual warmth. Let it sit with the lid closed for 10 minutes, allowing the noodles to fully cook by absorbing the liquid.
- Final Stir and Garnish: Remove the lid and stir the creamy noodles once more to incorporate any thickened sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Allow to cool slightly; the sauce will thicken further before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Adjust the pepper to your taste for desired spice level.
- For a richer dish, add a splash of milk or cream before serving.
- Parsley garnish is optional but adds a fresh touch and color contrast.
- Make sure to keep the lid on during the resting phase to ensure noodles cook evenly and soak up flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamy noodles, cafeteria style, egg noodles, comfort food, one pot pasta, chicken broth noodles
