14 Ways to Make Buttered Noodles Even Better Than They Are!

Looking for ways to elevate simple buttered noodles? You're in for a treat! These 17 ways to make buttered noodles the star of your dinner table are all about adding that secret ingredient that takes a classic dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether it's a quick hack, a surprising flavor combo, or a family favorite with a twist, each idea is designed to bring out the best in this humble dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these easy yet genius ideas that'll have everyone asking for seconds!

Close up of cacio e pepe in white bowl with fork and spoon. — Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe (3 Ingredients Only!). Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Parmesan Cheese

Red plate filled with alfredo sauce and keto noodles. — Keto Fettuccine Alfredo. Photo Credit: Low Carb - No Carb

Parmesan adds a nutty, cheesy goodness that takes the noodles to the next level. It melts into a creamy sauce that clings to every strand, making each bite super tasty.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Cheese

Garlic

Garlic brings a deep, savory flavor that really jazzes up the noodles. When you sauté it in butter, it gets all sweet and fragrant, making the whole dish smell amazing and taste even better.
Get the Recipe: Garlic

Black Pepper

Freshly ground black pepper adds a little kick that wakes up the flavors. Its spicy warmth is the perfect contrast to the rich, buttery noodles.
Get the Recipe: Black Pepper

Pecorino Romano

Pecorino Romano is sharp and salty, adding a robust, savory punch to the noodles. It’s got a stronger flavor than Parmesan, which makes the dish even more flavorful and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Pecorino Romano

White Miso

White miso gives the noodles a savory, umami boost with a hint of sweetness. It blends beautifully with the butter, adding a rich, complex flavor that’s totally addictive.
Get the Recipe: White Miso

Lemon

Lemon juice and zest add a bright, zesty punch that cuts through the richness. The fresh citrus flavor wakes up your taste buds and makes everything taste lighter and more vibrant.
Get the Recipe: Lemon

Parsley

Fresh parsley adds a pop of green and a fresh, herbal note that lightens up the dish. It’s like adding a bit of garden freshness that balances out the richness.
Get the Recipe: Parsley

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce adds a deep, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness that blends nicely with the butter. It gives the noodles an extra umami kick that’s deliciously addictive.
Get the Recipe: Soy Sauce

Broccoli

Broccoli adds a crunchy bite and a mild, slightly bitter flavor that complements the rich, buttery noodles. It also adds a nice bit of color and makes the dish feel a bit healthier.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli

Gochujang

Gochujang brings a spicy-sweet heat that really livens up the noodles. Its bold, tangy flavor adds a fun, Korean-inspired twist that’s both exciting and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang

Cheddar Cheese

An overhead image of a cooked gouda mac and cheese in a baking pan. — Cheddar Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cheddar melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that’s rich and comforting. Its sharp, tangy flavor adds a nice twist to the traditional cheesy noodle combo.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Cheese

Sautéed Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy, umami depth that’s hearty and satisfying. Their meaty texture makes the noodles feel more substantial and gives the dish a gourmet touch.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Mushrooms

Basil

Basil brings a sweet, aromatic flavor that’s super refreshing. It pairs perfectly with the creamy, buttery noodles, adding a burst of freshness and a lovely scent.
Get the Recipe: Basil

Red Pepper Flakes

Two pasta bowls filled with penne and chunks of sausage and tomatoes. — Red Pepper Flakes. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Red pepper flakes bring a touch of heat that makes the noodles more exciting. They add just the right amount of zing without overpowering the dish.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper Flakes