Cheese noodles are the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, gooey, and oh-so-delicious, they can brighten up any meal. But did you know there are plenty of ways to give your classic cheese noodles a little twist?
From spicy to veggie-packed options, every version has its cheesy gooey flavor that is going to let you say "Yes, please, more!". Let's check out how to get your weeknight dinner or cozy weekend treat ready.
Classic Cheese Noodles: Your Go-To Recipe
Ingredients:
- 200g egg noodles
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (grated)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella (optional for extra stretch)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-By-Step Recipe:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stir in the flour, and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cheddar (and mozzarella, if using) until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then toss in the cooked noodles. Serve immediately for a rich, cheesy delight!
Let's check out 3 of the tastiest variations to spice up this classical dish!
1. Spicy Sriracha Cheese Noodles
If you like your cheese noodles with a kick, try adding a little sriracha to the mix! Simply follow the classic recipe, but before tossing the noodles, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha (or your favorite hot sauce) into the cheese sauce. This adds a tangy heat that balances perfectly with the creamy cheese. A sprinkle of green onions or cilantro on top makes for a bold finish. Want even more spice? Add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra zing!
2. Veggie-Packed Cheese Noodles
Cheese noodles don’t have to be indulgent every time - why not sneak in some vegetables? To keep it simple, while making your cheese sauce, steam or sauté veggies like broccoli, spinach, or peas and toss them into the noodles. The veggies not only add color and crunch but make you feel a little better about indulging in a cheesy dish. Bonus points for mixing in roasted garlic for extra flavor! This twist works great for kids (or adults) who need a little convincing to eat their greens.
3. Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Noodles
Love spinach and artichoke dip? Why not turn it into a cheesy noodle dish! Simply mix in chopped spinach (fresh or frozen) and artichoke hearts into your cheese sauce. You can even top the noodles with breadcrumbs and pop them under the broiler for a golden, crispy finish. This combo adds a sophisticated touch to your dinner, and the added veggies are a win-win.
Cheese noodles are classic comfort food, but these fun variations prove that they can be so much more! Ranging from a healthy veggie boost, to the heartiness of spinach and artichoke, you can find what you will love. Why not try one of these recipes and discover your new favorite twist on cheese noodles?
