Description
A nostalgic comfort dish featuring tender egg noodles enveloped in a rich, velvety parmesan sauce with aromatic garlic and onion flavors—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 6-8 minutes. Drain thoroughly in a colander and set aside, but avoid rinsing to help the sauce adhere better to the noodles.
- Prepare the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble slightly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as this will form the flavor base for your sauce.
- Create the thickening agent: Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep stirring constantly to cook the flour mixture for about 2 minutes until it reaches a light golden color and gives off a slightly nutty aroma. This cooking process removes the raw flour taste.
- Form the sauce base: Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to ensure a smooth texture. Add the milk slowly at first, about 1/4 cup at a time, incorporating completely before adding more. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, maintaining the whisking motion until the sauce begins to thicken, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Season and flavor: Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley if using. Continue stirring until the cheese completely melts and integrates into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Combine with noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the sauce, using tongs or a wooden spoon to gently toss until all noodles are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Ensure every strand is covered for maximum flavor in each bite.
- Finish and serve: Allow the noodles and sauce to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, letting the flavors meld and the sauce further thicken as it clings to the noodles. Serve immediately while hot for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- For a protein boost, consider adding cooked diced chicken, ham, or tuna to the finished dish.
- Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives make an excellent garnish that adds color and fresh flavor.
- Substitute whole milk with 2% if preferred, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.
- This recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg