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Parmesan Noodles

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These creamy Parmesan noodles are a quick and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal. With rich Parmesan cheese and buttery noodles, every bite is full of flavor. Ready in under twenty minutes, this dish makes a perfect side or main course. You’ll love how easy and satisfying these Parmesan noodles are!
Follow the simple guide below for step-by-step photos and directions. Check out our pro tips and tricks, plus answers to frequently asked questions, for the best results!

More Recipes ⭐ Carbonara Pasta | Buffalo Chicken Pasta | Chicken Parmesan
Do you have someone in your family that loves 'plain noodles?' Then this recipe is perfect for you! These easy butter noodles with parmesan have the perfect flavor for those who love simple pasta recipes.
These creamy Parmesan noodles take just twenty minutes to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. With rich, buttery flavor and melted Parmesan, they’re irresistible and sure to please everyone at the table. This dish works as a satisfying main or a tasty side for any occasion. Try it for an easy, comforting meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients

What you'll need to make this Parmesan Noodles recipe:
- 8 ounces dry angel hair pasta
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1½ tablespoons minced garlic
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish if desired
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional drizzle)
- ⅛-¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your buttered parmesan noodles recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding tasty extras! These simple changes make it uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Parmesan: Try Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a similar cheesy flavor with a unique twist on traditional Parmesan noodles.
- Add Garlic: Sauté minced garlic in the butter for an extra layer of flavor and a savory garlic-Parmesan taste.
- Use Olive Oil: Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter, Mediterranean-inspired flavor in your Parmesan noodles.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh basil or parsley at the end for a pop of color and fresh, herbal flavor.
These easy swaps add variety and keep your Parmesan noodles exciting every time!
How to Make Parmesan Noodles
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips and tricks below. You’ll make delicious noodles with parmesan cheese in no time. Let’s get started!
FIRST STEP: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Measure out your butter, chop the garlic finely, grate the Parmesan cheese, and chop the parsley. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Pro Tip
We recommend using freshly grated cheese when making this simple recipe. Pre-grated parmesan cheese doesn’t melt well and won’t incorporate as well into the pasta.
SECOND STEP: Boil your your dry angel hair pasta in a large pot of water according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. This typically takes about four to five minutes for angel hair pasta.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Pro Tip
You can reserve a bit of your pasta water and incorporate it into your finished pasta if it becomes a bit dry. Add a few tablespoons at a time and saute over the heat until incorporated.
THIRD STEP: Add the salted butter to a 10 to 12-inch skillet and melt it over medium-low heat.
FOURTH STEP: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for about one minute until the garlic is aromatic but not browned.

FIFTH STEP: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and butter. Use tongs to toss the pasta until it is completely coated with the garlic butter mixture.

SIXTH STEP: Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. Add the freshly chopped parsley, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. Remove the skillet from heat.
SEVENTH STEP: Drizzle with a little olive oil if desired. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes over the pasta.
EIGHTH STEP: Before serving, you can sprinkle more freshly grated parmesan cheese on top if desired.

How To Serve Parmesan Butter Noodles
Parmesan noodles are versatile and can be served in so many delicious ways! Here’s how to make this recipe perfect for any occasion.
- Weeknight Family Dinners: Parmesan noodles are kid-friendly and easy to pair with grilled chicken or steamed veggies for a quick, satisfying meal. They’re creamy, comforting, and ready in minutes—perfect for busy nights.
- Holiday Gatherings and Potlucks: This simple butter and cheese pasta dish brings warmth and flavor to any holiday spread or potluck table. Serve with roast turkey or ham for a festive combination everyone will love.
- Light Spring or Summer Meals: Serve Parmesan noodles with fresh garden salads or lemon-grilled fish for a light, seasonal meal. The buttery noodles and fresh flavors make a refreshing warm-weather option.
This simple, cheese and butter pasta adds a touch of comfort to any gathering, making it a crowd-pleaser every time!

Why You'll Love This Parmesan Cheese Noodles Recipe
Parmesan Noodles are a go-to favorite for so many delicious reasons:
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: These noodles combine the nutty taste of Parmesan with a buttery, smooth texture that melts in your mouth. Each bite brings simple yet indulgent flavors that everyone loves.
- Perfect Comfort Food: Parmesan noodles bring cozy comfort to any meal, creating a warm and satisfying dish that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s ideal for unwinding after a busy day or enjoying a quiet night in.
- Quick and Easy to Make: This recipe takes just twenty minutes, making it a perfect choice for quick weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. It’s low-fuss and full of flavor, proving that tasty meals don’t have to take hours.
These Parmesan Noodles are a comforting classic that’s easy to make and loved by everyone, every time!

Recipe FAQ
Can I use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated?
Yes, fresh Parmesan adds a richer, creamier texture and flavor. Grate it finely for the best results in your noodles.
How long does it take to make Parmesan noodles?
This recipe is ready in about twenty minutes, making it quick and convenient for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
What type of noodles work best in this recipe?
Any pasta works, but fettuccine or spaghetti are favorites because they hold the creamy Parmesan sauce well.
Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes, simply use milk or half-and-half instead. The sauce may be slightly thinner, but still flavorful and delicious.

Serving FAQ
How should I serve Parmesan noodles for a family dinner?
Serve them warm and fresh from the stove top. These creamy noodles are comforting and sure to please everyone at the table. Use them as a main dish on busy nights or as a tasty noodle side dish.
Can I serve Parmesan noodles for a party or gathering?
Absolutely! Parmesan noodles are easy to serve in large batches, making them perfect for parties or potlucks.
Are Parmesan noodles kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love their mild, cheesy flavor, making this dish a great choice for family meals.
What size portions work best for Parmesan noodles?
Serve in generous portions as a main dish or smaller portions as a side. Both options work beautifully!

Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your Parmesan Noodles. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered so you can enjoy them fresh every time!
Can I prepare Parmesan noodles ahead of time?
Yes, cook the noodles and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day.
What's the best way to store leftover Parmesan noodles?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to two days.
Can I reheat this pasta without drying them out?
Yes, reheat noodles in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream, stirring until warmed through and creamy.
Is it okay to reheat noodles in the microwave?
Yes, reheat in thirty-second increments, stirring between each, to keep the noodles creamy and prevent overcooking.

Parmesan Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry angel hair pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1½ tablespoons minced garlic (finely minced (or about 4 cloves of garlic))
- ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish if desired (you can substitute parmigiano reggiano, romano, or asiago cheese))
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional drizzle)
- ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
DIRECTIONS
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, cooking to al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add the butter to a 10 to 12-inch skillet over medium-low heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly until the garlic is aromatic, about 1 minute. (Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will cause the garlic to taste bitter.)
- Add the cooked pasta to the garlic and butter in the skillet. Use tongs to toss the pasta until completely coated.
- Sprinkle the freshly grated cheese, chopped parsley, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Toss to combine completely. Remove the pan from the heat. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle the red pepper flakes if desired. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- We recommend using freshly grated cheese when making this simple recipe. Pre-grated parmesan cheese doesn’t melt well and won’t incorporate as well into the pasta.
- You can reserve a bit of your pasta water and incorporate it into your finished pasta if it becomes a bit dry. Add a few tablespoons at a time and saute over the heat until incorporated.
- Be sure not to let the butter brown, or the butter will become too sweet, or even taste burnt.
- Burning the garlic will give your pasta a bitter flavor, so make sure the heat isn’t too high, and keep stirring it together with the butter.
Nutrition
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Comments
Kelly A. says
Butter, garlic, pasta, and cheese. So simple but really tasty. Even McKenzie, my picky eater liked it. But that's because it's simple. Will make again for family dinner, maybe next week. Thanks!