Creamy Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
Introduction
Enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy cafeteria noodles that bring back nostalgic flavors with every bite. This simple recipe combines tender egg noodles with a rich, creamy chicken broth base for an easy meal the whole family will love.
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 over medium-high heat, add the chicken broth.
- Step 2: Stir in the chicken bouillon and pepper until combined.
- Step 3: Add the cream of chicken soup and butter, stirring until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Step 4: Add the egg noodles, spreading them out so they are evenly submerged in the liquid.
- Step 5: Let the noodles boil for 2 minutes, then cover the pot with a lid and turn off the heat while keeping the pot on the burner.
- Step 6: Leave the lid on and let the noodles cook for 10 minutes until fully tender.
- Step 7: Remove the lid, stir the noodles once more, and garnish with parsley if desired. Let cool slightly to thicken before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder when stirring in the broth.
- Substitute half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce consistency.
- Add cooked vegetables or shredded chicken to make it a heartier meal.
- Use fresh parsley or chives as a garnish for a fresh herbal note.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, any pasta with a similar cooking time like rotini or penne can be used, but adjust cooking time if necessary.
Is low sodium broth necessary?
Using low sodium broth helps control the saltiness since chicken bouillon already adds salt. However, you can use regular broth if you reduce or skip the bouillon.
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Creamy Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and creamy cafeteria-style noodle dish featuring tender egg noodles simmered in a rich chicken broth and cream of chicken soup sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe delivers nostalgia and heartwarming flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz Egg Noodles
- 32 oz Chicken Broth (low sodium)
- 2 teaspoons Chicken Bouillon
- 10.5 oz Cream of Chicken Soup
- Pepper to taste
- ½ stick Butter (4 tablespoons)
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: In a large pot with a lid, pour the chicken broth and heat over medium-high heat until it begins to warm.
- Season the broth: Stir in chicken bouillon and pepper to taste, mixing well to dissolve the bouillon completely.
- Create the creamy sauce: Add the cream of chicken soup and butter to the pot, stirring continuously until the butter melts and all ingredients are well combined into a smooth mixture.
- Add the noodles: Pour in the egg noodles, spreading them evenly so they are fully submerged in the liquid.
- Start cooking noodles: Let the noodles boil uncovered for 2 minutes to begin softening.
- Simmer with lid: Place the lid on the pot and turn off the heat, keeping the pot on the burner to retain warmth.
- Cook noodles thoroughly: Allow the noodles to cook in the hot liquid undisturbed with the lid closed for 10 minutes until tender.
- Finish and serve: Remove the lid and stir the noodles gently to combine. Garnish with parsley if desired, let the dish cool slightly to thicken, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.
- Stirring before serving helps evenly distribute the creamy sauce.
- Covering the pot and turning off the heat allows noodles to cook gently without burning the broth.
- Optional parsley adds freshness and color.
- This recipe provides a nostalgic taste reminiscent of classic school cafeteria meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamy noodles, cafeteria noodles, egg noodles, comfort food, quick dinner, creamy chicken noodles
