Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these butter noodles will become a family favorite.
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Only 3 ingredients. Noodles, butter, broth.
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No boiling water. The noodles cook right in the slow cooker.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does the work.
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Rich and buttery. Glossy, flavorful, and satisfying.
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Versatile. Serve with almost any main course.
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Budget-friendly. Noodles and butter are inexpensive.
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Perfect for potlucks. Keeps warm on WARM.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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12 oz wide egg noodles (dry)
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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into chunks
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional, for serving)
Ingredient Notes
Wide egg noodles: Use wide, ribbon-style egg noodles. They hold their shape during cooking and have enough surface area to catch the buttery sauce. Do not use thin egg noodles, which will become mushy.
Unsalted butter: A full cup of butter creates the rich, glossy sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level. Do not substitute margarine.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Low-sodium broth is preferred. The butter adds richness, and the broth provides savory flavor. Low-sodium broth gives you more control. Regular broth can be used but may make the dish saltier.
Freshly ground black pepper: Optional but recommended. The pepper adds warmth and a classic finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker lightly with nonstick cooking spray or rub with a bit of butter to help prevent sticking.
Step 2: Heat the Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. Cover and turn to HIGH. Let the broth heat for about 30 to 45 minutes, until it is very hot and steaming.
Step 3: Add the Butter
Once the broth is hot, stir in the chunks of butter until they are mostly melted and the liquid looks glossy and golden.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Add the dry wide egg noodles to the slow cooker, gently pressing them down into the buttery broth so they are as submerged as possible. It is okay if a few stick up at first. They will soften as they cook.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Cover and cook on HIGH for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir gently every 8 to 10 minutes to help the noodles cook evenly and soak up the buttery broth. Be careful not to over-stir so the noodles do not break apart.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
When the noodles are tender but not mushy and most of the liquid has been absorbed into a rich, buttery sauce, turn the slow cooker to WARM. If the noodles look a little too brothy, leave the lid off for 5 to 10 minutes and stir once or twice. They will continue to thicken as they sit.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Because the broth may already have salt, you might not need to add any. Spoon the noodles into bowls straight from the slow cooker, and finish with plenty of freshly ground black pepper on top. Serve hot.
How to Serve Butter Noodles
These rich, buttery noodles are incredibly versatile.
As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roast chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, or steak.
With a Protein: Top with shredded chicken, pulled pork, or sautéed shrimp.
With Vegetables: Toss with steamed peas, mushrooms, or asparagus.
With a Salad: Serve with a simple green salad.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, or thyme.
With Grated Parmesan: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.
Variations & Tips
Make It With Garlic: Add 3 to 4 cloves of minced garlic to the broth.
Make It With Onion: Add 1 sliced onion to the broth.
Make It With Herbs: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or parsley.
Make It With Parmesan: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan at the end.
Make It With Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms.
Make It With Peas: Add 1 cup of frozen peas during the last 5 minutes.
Make It With Chicken: Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free egg noodles and gluten-free broth.
Make It on the Stove: Cook the noodles in a pot of boiling water. Drain. Return to the pot and stir in the butter.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Heat the broth before adding the noodles. This helps the noodles cook evenly.
Stir gently. Over-stirring can break the noodles.
Do not overcook. Check at 20 minutes. The noodles should be tender but not mushy.
Let the noodles rest on WARM. This allows them to absorb more butter and flavor.
Use low-sodium broth. This prevents the dish from becoming too salty.
Finish with black pepper. The pepper is essential for the classic Amish-style flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different noodle?
Wide egg noodles are recommended. Pappardelle or fettuccine can be used but the texture will be different.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes. Reduce or omit any additional salt.
Can I use water instead of broth?
Yes, but the dish will be less flavorful. Use broth if you have it.
Can I cook this on low instead of high?
This recipe is designed for HIGH heat. The noodles need the higher temperature to cook properly.
Can I double this recipe?
Only if your slow cooker is at least 6 quarts. Do not fill more than two-thirds full.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture of the noodles and butter will change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why are my noodles mushy?
You overcooked them. Check at 20 minutes. The noodles should be just tender.
Why is my sauce too thin?
The noodles did not absorb enough liquid. Cook uncovered on HIGH for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Why is my sauce too thick?
Stir in a splash of warm chicken broth or water.
The Amish Kitchen Wisdom
Amish cooking is not about trends. It is about feeding a family well with what is available. It is about dishes that are simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.
These butter noodles embody that wisdom. Noodles are a pantry staple. Butter is a basic ingredient. Broth adds flavor without fuss. Nothing is wasted. Everything is stretched.
Yet when you combine these humble ingredients in a slow cooker, they become something special. The noodles absorb the rich, buttery broth. The butter adds gloss and richness. The result is a dish that feels like comfort.
This is the kind of side dish that shows up at potlucks and family dinners. The kind that people go back for seconds. The kind that pairs with almost anything.
Make these on a busy weeknight. Make them for a potluck. Make them because sometimes the simplest food is the best food.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30–45 minutes for broth, plus 20–30 minutes for noodles
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings