What are cafeteria noodles?

Cafeteria noodles are a simple comfort food dish made with wide egg noodles simmered in a savory broth, often enriched with butter and basic seasonings. Popularized in American school cafeterias, hospitals, and military mess halls, these noodles are soft, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Their mild taste and tender texture make them a nostalgic favorite for many generations.

What to serve with cafeteria noodles?

Cafeteria noodles pair well with classic comfort food sides such as buttered rolls, garlic breadsticks, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside roasted chicken, meatloaf, or slow-cooked beef. These combinations offer balance, adding freshness or protein to the soft, buttery noodles.

How to make noodles more delicious?

To boost flavor in cafeteria noodles, cook them in broth instead of water and add simple seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper. A touch of butter or a splash of cream can add richness. For more depth, toss in shredded chicken, roasted veggies, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

cafeteria noodles recipe that’s quick Delicious 1

Name: Cafeteria Noodles Recipe – Quick, Tasty, And Nostalgic Favorite
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces wide egg noodles; 4–5 cups chicken or beef broth; 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt & black pepper, to taste; Optional: garlic powder, to taste

Description

If you grew up eating in a school or hospital cafeteria, chances are you remember the soft, buttery noodles that made even picky eaters smile. The cafeteria noodles recipe brings back those warm, simple meals — and the best part is, it’s incredibly easy to recreate at home. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish transforms into something comforting, quick, and undeniably tasty. Whether you want a nostalgic meal for dinner or a side that satisfies everyone at the table, this recipe delivers both flavor and familiarity.

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces wide egg noodles
4–5 cups chicken or beef broth
2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional: garlic powder, to taste

Instructions

Bring 6–8 cups of water or broth to a rolling boil in a large pot.
Add 1 teaspoon of salt to season the water or broth.
Drop in 12 ounces of wide egg noodles and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Boil uncovered for about 7–9 minutes, until the noodles are soft but not mushy.
Drain only if you’re not using broth. Otherwise, let the noodles absorb flavor directly in the liquid.
Use 4–5 cups of chicken or beef broth depending on how soupy you want the noodles. Add 2–3 tablespoons of unsalted butter while the noodles simmer.
Season with black pepper and garlic powder, if desired.
Simmer on low for about 5–7 more minutes until the liquid has reduced slightly and the noodles are tender and coated. Serve hot.

Notes

For richer results, cook noodles directly in broth instead of water. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to adjust the seasoning or add protein like leftover chicken or beef.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: cafeteria noodles, comfort food, quick recipe