
This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience with Reames noodles at its heart. The wide, flat egg noodles soak up creamy sauce beautifully.
I developed this method to highlight the noodles’ rich texture and homestyle appeal. The result is a dish that feels both nostalgic and satisfyingly indulgent.
Ingredients for Reames Noodles
Wide egg noodles, creamy sauce, and rich aromatics come together for nostalgic comfort in every bite.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reames Egg Noodles 🍜 | 12 oz | Wide, flat variety preferred |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | ½ cup | Divided for sauce and topping |
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | ¼ cup | For thickening sauce |
| Whole Milk 🥛 | 2 cups | Full-fat for creaminess |
| Heavy Cream 🥛 | ½ cup | Cold, for richness |
| Chicken Broth 🍲 | 1 cup | Low-sodium preferred |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 3 cloves | Minced for depth |
| Yellow Onion 🧅 | 1 whole | Finely diced for base |
| Salt 🧂 | 1 tsp | Diamond Crystal kosher |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ½ tsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Dried Thyme 🌿 | ½ tsp | For subtle earthiness |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese 🧀 | ½ cup | Freshly grated from block |
| Fresh Parsley 🌿 | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
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The noodles are non-negotiable here. Reames brand offers the ideal wide, flat shape that holds sauce beautifully. Look for them in the refrigerated section near other fresh pastas—most Kroger or Walmart locations carry them. The butter should be high-quality, like Plugrá or Kerrygold, for optimal flavor. Avoid margarine, which lacks the necessary fat content for proper emulsification.
No fresh parsley? Dried parsley at half the amount works, though it lacks the vibrant color. Swap the thyme for rosemary or sage if preferred. For a lighter version, 2% milk can replace whole, but the sauce will be less luxurious. The Parmesan must be freshly grated—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian approach.
Store the noodles in their original packaging in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The sauce keeps for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, cook the noodles fresh rather than reheating them in the sauce, as they tend to absorb liquid and become mushy over time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pot Wonder: I love that I can make this creamy noodle dish in a single pot—just brown the butter, whisk in the flour and milk, and let the Reames noodles soak up all that richness.
- Velvety Indulgence: The combo of whole milk and heavy cream turns these egg noodles into pure comfort food, with a sauce so smooth it clings perfectly to every bite.
- Weeknight Lifesaver: Honestly, it’s my go-to for busy evenings when I need something filling and fast. The kids devour it, and I’m not stuck in the kitchen for hours.
- Stretches Further: Leftovers taste even better the next day, and the ingredients are pantry staples I always have on hand. Between us, it’s a budget-friendly win.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Reames Noodles
Here is the method. Straightforward, tested, works every time.
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles Al Dente
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should taste like seawater—this ensures the noodles are well-seasoned from the start. Add the 12 oz Reames Egg Noodles and stir immediately to prevent sticking.
Cook for 8-10 minutes or according to package directions until the noodles are al dente—firm to the bite but not crunchy. Stir occasionally to keep them from clumping together. Drain the noodles in a colander but do not rinse; the starch helps the sauce cling.
Step 2: Create the Roux Base for the Sauce
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 1 whole Yellow Onion, finely diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the 3 cloves Garlic Cloves, minced, and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown. Add the 0.25 cup All-Purpose Flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux. This creates the thick, velvety base for your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce Gradually
Slowly pour in the 2 cups Whole Milk and 1 cup Chicken Broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture will thicken as it heats. Add the 0.5 cup Heavy Cream, 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Black Pepper, and 0.5 tsp Dried Thyme.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. The sauce should be rich and creamy, with a smooth texture that promises comfort in every bite.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce for Final Touch
Add the cooked and drained Reames Egg Noodles to the pot of sauce. Stir well to ensure every noodle is coated evenly. Cook over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb some of the sauce and the flavors to meld together.
Remove from heat and stir in the 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese until fully melted and incorporated. The cheese adds a rich, savory depth that ties the dish together beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Immediately
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, though the combination of salt, pepper, and Parmesan should provide a well-balanced flavor. Transfer the creamy noodles to a serving dish or individual bowls.
Garnish with the 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped, for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note. Serve immediately while hot—the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, but the creamy texture is best enjoyed fresh from the pot.
Pro Tips For Making Reames Noodles
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Boil the Reames noodles for 2-3 minutes less than the package says—I learned this the hard way after ending up with mushy noodles in my creamy sauce.
- Bloom the Flour: Whisk the flour into the melted butter for a full 2 minutes over medium heat to cook out the raw taste; it actually changes the outcome of your roux.
- Warm Your Dairy: Take the whole milk and heavy cream out of the fridge 15 minutes before using, or the cold shock can make your sauce split.
- Salt in Layers: Season the noodle water, the roux, and the finished sauce—more salt than you think, especially if using unsalted butter.
Serving Suggestions for This Recipe
Family-Style Presentation
Serve these creamy noodles in a large, shallow bowl to show off their rich, saucy beauty. I love using my Le Creuset stoneware for this—it keeps the dish warm at the table. The wide surface lets everyone dig in and share the comfort.
Protein Pairings
Add roast chicken or seared pork tenderloin on the side for a complete meal. The mild flavor of the noodles balances bold proteins perfectly. I often serve with garlic butter shrimp for a coastal twist. 🔥
Vegetable Sides
Balance the richness with steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts. Their freshness cuts through the creaminess. A simple side salad with balsamic dressing works too for crunch and acidity.
Bread Basket
Include warm crusty bread or garlic biscuits to soak up any extra sauce. I always bake a loaf of sourdough to serve alongside—it’s a great way to stretch the meal.
Garnish Bar
Set out small bowls of extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs. Letting guests customize their plate makes it feel special. Honestly, I always add a dash of smoked paprika myself. ✨
Kid-Friendly Tip
For picky eaters, serve the noodles plain with sauce on the side. My nieces love this dish when I let them control the toppings. It’s comforting to see them enjoy homemade food as much as I do.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Stick with wide, flat egg noodles for best results. Thinner noodles or spaghetti won’t hold the creamy sauce as well. Reames brand is ideal because of its texture and width.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat at medium-low and whisk constantly when adding dairy. If it starts to separate, remove from heat and whisk vigorously to re-emulsify. Patience is key here.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Cook the noodles and sauce separately, then combine just before serving. The noodles absorb sauce over time, so storing them together makes the dish dry. Reheat sauce gently and toss with fresh noodles.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Full-fat coconut milk works well for a dairy-free option. For a lighter version, use an extra 1 cup whole milk and 2 tbsp butter, though the sauce will be less rich.
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