Cafeteria Noodles

You know those viral TikTok cafeteria noodles everyone’s talking about? Well, I finally gave them a whirl, and they’re absolutely scrumptious!

Tender egg noodles are swimming in a rich, creamy chicken-flavored sauce.

It’s like a cozy throwback to those old-school cafeteria lunches but with a creamy, indulgent twist.

Make them tonight and see what all the hype is about!

Why You’ll Love These Cafeteria Noodles

Quick & Easy: With a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this dish in a jiff. Perfect for getting a hot meal on the table on busy weeknights.

Nostalgic Comfort: This recipe brings back fond memories of grade-school cafeteria lunches. You’ll love sharing this dish with your family!

Budget-Friendly: Calling for affordable ingredients like egg noodles and canned soup, this recipe stretches your dollar. 

Creamy Indulgence: The chicken stock, cream of chicken soup, and butter create a rich, velvety, indulgent flavor. It’s like buttered noodles but elevated! 

Ingredients

• Extra Wide Egg Noodles: You can’t have cafeteria noodles without them! They provide the perfect base for the creamy, savory sauce.
  
• Chicken Stock: For cooking the noodles and infusing the dish with an extra savory flavor.
  
• Chicken Bouillon Cube: The ideal flavor booster! This concentrated flavor bomb enhances the savory chicken flavor.
  
• Cream of Chicken Soup: The secret to the creamy texture and rich flavor.
  
• Salted Butter: Use salted butter. It adds richness and helps create a velvety sauce.
  
• Garlic Powder and Fresh Parsley: They add more savoriness and freshness to the dish.

How to Make Cafeteria Noodles

This dish is so easy to make. With a few pantry staples and simple steps, you can have it ready in no time.

1. Prepare the broth. Bring the chicken stock and bouillon cube to a boil. 

2. Cook the noodles. Add the egg noodles. Allow the stock to return to a boil.

3. Add the seasonings. Stir in the cream of chicken soup and garlic powder. Boil for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Stir in the butter. Take the pot off the heat. Add the butter and stir.

5. Rest the noodles. Place a lid on the pot. Let the noodles sit for a few minutes.

6. Garnish. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

7. Serve. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips for the Best Cafeteria Noodles

But before getting started, I recommend checking out these helpful tips. 

• Swap the pasta. Out of egg noodles? Use a different pasta shape. Just note that cooking times may vary.
  
• Pack in some protein. For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can also add sausage. 
  
• Go vegetarian. Use vegetable stock, vegetable bouillon, and cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken. 
  
• Toss in some veggies. For a nutrient boost, add veggies to the pot. Broccoli, peas, bell peppers, and mushrooms all pair well.
  
• Boost the flavor. Enhance the flavor with aromatics, spices, and freshly grated cheese. Try Parmesan, fresh garlic, paprika, dried basil, and red pepper chili flakes.
  
• Make it a perfect pairing. Serve cafeteria noodles alongside roasted meats, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store

Here’s how to keep leftover noodles fresh.

To Store: Place cooled leftovers in an air-tight container. Refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

To Freeze: Toss the cooled noodles with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

To Reheat: Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water or chicken broth, and cover. Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir frequently and add liquid as needed to prevent sticking.

Cafeteria Noodles

Course: Main CourseCuisine: American

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

12

minutes

Calories

465

kcal

These cafeteria noodles went viral on TikTok for good reason! They’re easy to make, creamy, and so delicious!

Ingredients

• 16 ounces extra wide egg noodles

• 4 cups chicken stock

• 1 chicken bouillon cube

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• 1/2 cup salted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

• Pour the chicken stock into a large pot or deep skillet. Add the bouillon cube. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil.
• Once boiling, add the egg noodles to the pot and stir. Allow the stock to return to a boil.
• Stir in the cream of chicken soup and garlic powder. Let the mixture boil for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Take the pot off the heat and add the butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the noodles.
• Place a lid on the pot. Let the noodles sit for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Give the noodles one final stir, then transfer them to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Serve hot and enjoy!