There is something especially comforting about a recipe this simple, especially on a busy weekend when you want the house to smell warm and buttery without standing at the stove the whole time. Amish-style buttered noodles are known for their humble pantry ingredients and cozy, old-fashioned flavor, and this slow cooker version leans into that same homey feel with just four ingredients and plenty of rich, nutty brown butter flavor.
Serve these noodles alongside roast chicken, meatloaf, pork chops, ham, or a simple green salad for an easy family dinner. They also fit right in on a holiday table with mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls, and if you want to keep things extra simple, a bowl of these buttery noodles with a spoonful of cottage cheese or a side of applesauce makes a very Midwest-style comfort meal.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Amish Brown Butter Noodles
Servings: 6
Ingredients
12 ounces wide egg noodles
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
1. In a light-colored skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling often, until the butter turns deep golden brown and the milk solids are toasted and fragrant. Watch closely so it does not burn.
2. Add the dry egg noodles to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, browned butter, and salt, then stir gently to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring once or twice if your slow cooker runs hot, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir well before serving so the noodles are evenly coated in the brown butter sauce. Taste and add a little more salt if needed, then serve hot.
Variations & Tips
Use vegetable broth: If you want a meatless version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The flavor will be a little lighter, but the browned butter still brings plenty of richness.
Add black pepper: A few cracks of black pepper at the end give the noodles a little extra warmth and help balance the buttery flavor without changing the simplicity of the dish.
Finish with parsley: For a little color, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top just before serving. It makes the finished dish look fresher, especially if you are putting it on a holiday or Sunday dinner table.
Do not overcook: Slow cookers can vary quite a bit, so start checking the noodles early. If they sit too long after the liquid is absorbed, the edges can become too soft.
Double carefully: If you are making this for a larger gathering, make sure your slow cooker is big enough for the extra noodles and liquid. Stir once or twice during cooking so everything cooks evenly.