Cafeteria Noodles

If you’re craving something warm, simple, and undeniably comforting, Cafeteria Noodles are the way to go. With just 5 pantry ingredients, you can whip up this nostalgic dish in no time.

Remember the days of cafeteria lunches where a simple bowl of noodles could make everything better? Creamy Cafeteria noodles are the epitome of comfort food, offering a creamy, savory bite that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Taking less than 20 minutes to make with just 5 simple ingredients, this simple side dish is one your kids and your significant other will be asking for on a regular basis. It's sure to become a family favorite!

Shelf-stable noodles are great to keep on hand in the pantry for dinner recipes like this or for my Lazy Lasagna or Tuna Noodle Casserole!

Why You'll Like This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Recipe: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this cafeteria noodles recipe comes together in no time.
• Comforting and Nostalgic: The creamy, buttery noodles are reminiscent of classic cafeteria fare, perfect for when you're craving something familiar and cozy.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, these chicken flavored noodles are easy on the wallet while still delivering big on flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild, creamy flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike. Even the pickiest eater will love these!

Ingredients

Scroll Down for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Printable Recipe Card Below

• Chicken Broth or Chicken Stock: Provides a savory base and enhances the chicken flavor in the dish.
• Zero Salt Chicken Bouillon: Adds concentrated chicken flavor without the extra sodium, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can also opt to use a bouillon cube.
• Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: This thick, creamy soup adds richness and body to the noodles, creating a comforting, velvety sauce.
• Egg Noodles: The perfect pasta for this dish, egg noodles cook quickly and have a tender, chewy texture that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Salted Butter: Adds richness and a buttery flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
• Parsley (dried or fresh), optional: Provides a hint of color and mild herb flavor, making the dish feel a bit more elevated.

Tools You'll Need

• Large Skillet 
• Liquid Measuring Cup
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

How to Make Cafeteria Noodles

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, whisk together broth or stock, chicken bouillon, and condensed cream of chicken soup until fully incorporated and smooth. Bring to a boil.

2. Add egg noodles, stirring to coat them in the broth mixture. Reduce to medium heat and let the noodles cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10-12 minutes.

3. Once the noodles are cooked, stir in salted butter until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper or white pepper to taste.

4. If desired, stir in dried or fresh parsley. Serve hot!

Expert Tips and Substitutions

• Broth Options: For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth or substitute with vegetable broth if you prefer. You can also use chicken stock.
• Soup Options: You can opt to use a different flavor variety of cream soups like cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup. You can also make homemade version of cream of chicken condensed soup by following this recipe:
  • Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in ⅓ cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in ⅓ cup milk and ⅓ cup chicken broth until well combined. Season with ¼ teaspoon onion powder and salt and pepper to taste. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes or until thickened and creamy. (This recipe makes the equivalent of 1 10.5 ounce can.)
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or turkey to make this a more filling main dish.
• Vegetable Boost: Add frozen peas, cooked carrots, or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
• Creamy Variations: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheese for an even creamier texture.

What to Serve with Cafeteria Noodles

Cafeteria noodles are a versatile and the perfect side dish to pair with a variety of recipes. Here are some great side dishes to complement your noodles:

• House Salad (Outback Copycat)
• Easy Cooked Vegetables
• Garlicky Green Beans
• Garlic Broccoli and Mushrooms

Some excellent main course options to go with these creamy flavorful noodles are:

• Easy Slow Cooker Pork Roast
• Salmon Cakes (4 Ingredient Salmon Patties)
• Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Legs
• Oven Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
• Pork Bites and Gravy

Storage

Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or bit of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

While noodles can become soft after freezing, this dish can be frozen in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comforting Noodle Recipes

• Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
• Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
• Crock Pot Beef and Noodles
• Lemon Pasta Salad