Creamy Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Cafeteria Noodles are a nostalgic dish that brings back fond memories of school lunches and family gatherings. This simple comfort food is quick to prepare, delicious, and enjoyed by both kids and adults. Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main course, these noodles are sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Step 3: Add the flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Step 5: Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 6: Add the cooked noodles to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly.
- Step 7: Allow the noodles to cook in the sauce for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors, then serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese along with the parmesan.
- Incorporate cooked chicken or ham to make the dish more substantial, especially for picky eaters.
- Substitute whole wheat noodles and use low-fat milk for a healthier version.
- Add your favorite veggies such as peas, carrots, or broccoli for an extra nutritious boost.
Storage
Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk and replace the parmesan with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.
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Creamy Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Cafeteria Noodles are a nostalgic and comforting dish reminiscent of school lunches, featuring tender egg noodles coated in a rich, cheesy sauce made with parmesan, garlic, and onion powders. Simple to prepare and versatile, these noodles serve as a perfect hearty side or main course enjoyed by both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz egg noodles
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them thoroughly and set aside to prepare the sauce.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour while stirring constantly to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it reaches a light golden color, which ensures no raw flour taste.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps, until the mixture is smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer to allow it to thicken.
- Incorporate cheese and spices: Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley if using. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked noodles into the cheese sauce and stir well to coat all the noodles evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Finish and serve: Let the coated noodles simmer briefly in the sauce for a couple of minutes to meld flavors. Serve warm as a comforting meal or side dish.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese along with parmesan.
- Add cooked chicken or ham to turn this into a more substantial main dish.
- Swap egg noodles for whole wheat noodles and use low-fat milk for a healthier version.
- Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
- Pair with steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, garlic bread, roasted chicken, or grilled pork chops for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy noodles, Cafeteria style, comfort food, egg noodles, parmesan cheese, easy pasta recipe, school lunch nostalgia
