Meta Information
Servings: 6 servings | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
Macros (Approximate Per Serving):
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
Introduction
These 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Butter Noodles are the definition of comfort food made simple. With just egg noodles, butter, and chicken broth, this recipe creates rich, buttery noodles that are tender, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday dinners, or when you need an easy side dish with minimal effort, these slow cooker noodles practically cook themselves. The broth infuses every noodle with flavor while the butter creates a silky, comforting finish that pairs beautifully with chicken, beef, pork, or vegetables.
If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe that everyone at the table will love, these butter noodles are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Look at the Recipe
- Only 3 simple ingredients
- Slow cooker does all the work
- Rich, buttery comfort food
- Perfect side dish for almost any meal
- Budget-friendly and kid-approved
Ingredients Needed
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 6 tablespoons butter, sliced
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley
- Black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Butter Noodles
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Pour the chicken broth into your slow cooker.
Add the sliced butter.
Cover and cook on HIGH for about 20 minutes, or until the butter has completely melted.
Step 2: Add the Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker.
Gently stir so most of the noodles are submerged in the broth mixture.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on HIGH for 1½ to 2 hours.
Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Finish
When the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir thoroughly.
For extra richness, add another tablespoon of butter and stir until melted.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm.
Garnish with parsley, black pepper, or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Begin checking the noodles after 1½ hours since slow cookers vary.
- Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from clumping together.
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt level.
- Add shredded chicken, cooked sausage, or vegetables to make it a complete meal.
- Parmesan cheese adds extra richness and flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
Garlic Butter Noodles
Add 2 teaspoons minced garlic when melting the butter.
Cheesy Butter Noodles
Stir in 1 cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese before serving.
Herb Butter Noodles
Add dried parsley, thyme, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Creamy Butter Noodles
Mix in ½ cup cream cheese or heavy cream at the end of cooking.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
- Serving bowl
Storage & Serving
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Serving Ideas
These noodles pair wonderfully with:
- Roast chicken
- Meatloaf
- Beef stew
- Pork chops
- Grilled vegetables
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Noodles
Check frequently toward the end of cooking to prevent mushy noodles.
Not Stirring
A quick stir once or twice helps ensure even cooking.
Using Too Much Salt
Chicken broth already contains sodium, so taste before adding extra salt.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of egg noodles?
Yes, but cooking times may vary depending on the pasta shape.
Can I use vegetable broth?
Absolutely. Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this ahead of time?
These noodles are best served fresh but can be reheated successfully.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Simply use a larger slow cooker and increase the ingredients proportionally.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
When you need a simple, comforting side dish with almost no effort, these 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Butter Noodles are hard to beat. Rich, buttery, and incredibly versatile, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, and everything in between. Keep this easy recipe in your collection for those days when comfort food is exactly what you need.