Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Pro Tip: Rinse the cooked noodles briefly under cold water to prevent overcooking while preparing the sauce.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Add the condensed cream of chicken soup , chicken broth , garlic powder , onion powder , and black pepper to the skillet with the melted butter. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it begins to simmer and thicken slightly. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Noodles and Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained egg noodles to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly in the creamy sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tip: If the mixture seems too thick, stir in a little extra chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the cafeteria noodles to serving plates or bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Serve hot alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, or as a standalone side dish for a complete meal.
Customization Ideas
While the classic version of these cafeteria noodles is delicious, here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Veggie Boost : Stir in diced carrots, peas, or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Herby Flavor : Mix in fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives for aromatic depth.
- Cheesy Delight : Fold in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère cheese for extra richness.
- Spicy Kick : Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne powder for heat.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cafeteria Noodles turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles : Follow the package instructions carefully to avoid mushy results.
- Whisk the Sauce Smoothly : Ensure there are no lumps in the cream of chicken soup before adding the broth.
- Adjust Seasoning : Taste the sauce and adjust the garlic powder, onion powder, or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Reheat Properly : Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
These Cafeteria Noodles capture the essence of childhood favorites with their creamy, savory goodness. Their simplicity makes them ideal for busy weeknights, while their versatility allows for endless creativity.
So gather your ingredients, grab your favorite skillet, and let’s make something truly comforting. Whether enjoyed as a nostalgic side dish or part of a larger feast, these noodles are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other easy and flavorful side dish ideas. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen adventures always end in success! 🍴✨
