Cafeteria Noodles

Cafeteria Noodles are a nostalgic, comfort food often found in school cafeterias. They’re simple, creamy, and comforting—perfect for a quick and easy meal. Here’s a basic recipe for Cafeteria-style Noodles that brings back the memories of school lunches but with a homemade touch!

Cafeteria Noodles

Ingredients:

• 8 oz egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1/2 cup milk (or more, depending on the consistency you want)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles:
   Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the creamy sauce:
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream of mushroom soup and stir it to combine. Slowly pour in the milk while stirring to achieve a creamy sauce. You can adjust the amount of milk to get your desired consistency.

3. Add seasoning:
   Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like a cheesy version, add the shredded cheddar cheese now and stir until it melts into the sauce.

4. Combine noodles and sauce:
   Add the drained cooked noodles into the creamy sauce and stir to coat the noodles evenly.

5. Simmer:
   Let the mixture cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to come together and heat through.

6. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Optional Add-ins:

• Protein: Add cooked chicken, ham, or ground beef to make it a more filling dish.
• Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese: You can add different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Parmesan, for extra flavor.

These Cafeteria Noodles are easy to make and comforting, making them perfect for a quick dinner or side dish. Enjoy the nostalgia of school lunch in your own home!