Rich, buttery, and loaded with savory Parmesan, these Baked Garlic Parmesan Noodles are the ultimate comfort food. With only a handful of pantry staples, this easy baked pasta comes together in under 40 minutes and pairs perfectly with chicken, steak, meatballs, or roasted vegetables.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 oz wide or medium egg noodles
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1½ teaspoons garlic powder)
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the egg noodles until just al dente according to the package directions.
Drain well.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the noodles cook, melt the butter.
Stir in the minced garlic (or garlic powder) until fragrant and well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Noodles
Return the drained noodles to the warm pot.
Pour the garlic butter over the noodles and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan
Mix in 1 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese until it coats the noodles.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the noodles evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
For a crispier crust, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Allow the noodles to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Cook the noodles just until al dente so they don’t overcook in the oven.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and delivers richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Add freshly cracked black pepper before serving for extra flavor.
- Broil briefly for a beautifully golden, crispy cheese topping.
- Serve immediately while the butter and cheese are hot and creamy.
Variations
Creamy Garlic Parmesan
Mix in ½ cup heavy cream before baking for an extra creamy texture.
Chicken Parmesan Noodles
Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken for a hearty one-dish meal.
Bacon Garlic Noodles
Add crispy chopped bacon before baking.
Herb Parmesan
Stir in fresh parsley, thyme, or basil for added freshness.
Extra Cheesy
Mix in shredded mozzarella or provolone with the Parmesan for an ultra-gooey finish.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or cover with foil and bake at 325°F until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes. Rotini, penne, fusilli, or fettuccine all work well, though egg noodles provide the classic buttery texture.
Can I use unsalted butter?
Absolutely. Just add a little extra salt to taste.
Is fresh garlic better than garlic powder?
Fresh garlic offers a stronger, richer flavor, but garlic powder is a convenient substitute.
What pairs well with these noodles?
They’re delicious alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, steak, pork chops, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Garlic Parmesan Noodles are a simple yet irresistible side dish that’s packed with buttery garlic flavor and topped with a golden Parmesan crust. Whether served as a comforting family dinner side or enjoyed on their own, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll make again and again.
