For many American kids, buttered noodles are the ultimate comfort food — and easy for parents to make. Here's how you can take that kid-favorite dish and give it a gourmet twist the whole family can enjoy. This recipe idea is an Italian-inspired take on buttered noodles — Pasta al burro e tartufo, pasta with truffle oil and Parmesan cheese. After the recipe, you'll find a tip for making it to please everyone's palate.
Pasta of your choice
Unsalted butter
Truffle oil — to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino Reggiano cheese
Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente — reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Melt butter over low heat. Once melted, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the truffle oil. If you haven't cooked with truffle oil before, start out with small amounts; a little goes a long way.
Add the drained pasta to the pan with the butter and truffle oil. Toss to coat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Season with sea salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Sprinkle with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and toss again.
Serve with extra cheese to grate on top if desired.
Parmesan cheese on the table with a cheese grater
If you're not sure the truffle oil will get a thumbs-up from the kids, make your buttered noodles, toss them with Parmesan, and then place a serving on your child's plate. Add a drop or two of truffle oil and toss. If they love it, you can add more. When you prepare your plate, add what you like and enjoy!
Read more about truffle oil with recipe ideas here: Truffle Oil
