Cafeteria Noodles

5 from 5 votes

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

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time47

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: pasta

Servings: servings

Calories: 245kcal

Ingredients

4 cups chicken broth or chicken stock
1 tablespoon zero salt chicken bouillon or 1 chicken bouillon cube
10.5 ounce can condensed cream of chicken soup low-sodium or regular
12 ounces egg noodles
4 tablespoons salted butter
1 teaspoon dried parsley optional
Salt and Black Pepper to taste

Instructions

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.
Add egg noodles, stirring to coat them in the broth mixture. Reduce the heat to medium and let the noodles cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in salted butter until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
If desired, stir in dried or fresh parsley. Serve hot!

Video

Notes

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.

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.

Nutrition

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