Zehnder’s Buttered Noodles Recipe

Written by: Vladimir Lapshin

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When I first sat down to eat at Zehnder’s in Frankenmuth, Michigan, the rich, buttery aroma of their famous egg noodles instantly made me feel at home. These noodles have been part of their legendary chicken dinners for generations. What makes them special is their simplicity. Just egg noodles simmered in savory broth and finished with plenty of butter. It sounds basic, but the flavor is pure comfort. In this article, I will show you how to make Zehnder’s buttered noodles recipe in your own kitchen.

Key Takeaways

• Simple ingredients, big flavor: Zehnder’s buttered noodles use just a few everyday ingredients, but the flavor is anything but basic. All you need are wide egg noodles, butter, and chicken broth. When combined, these create a warm, cozy dish that feels rich and satisfying. There is no need for a long list of fancy ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is how something so simple can taste so comforting.
• Infused cooking liquid adds depth: Instead of boiling the noodles in plain water, they are simmered in seasoned chicken broth. This small step makes a big difference. The noodles soak up the savory flavor of the broth as they cook, giving them a richer taste from the inside out. It is one of the reasons why Zehnder’s noodles stand out compared to other buttered noodles.
• Buttery crumb topping gives texture: One of the most special touches is the golden, crispy topping. A mix of crushed Ritz crackers and Saltines is lightly sautéed in butter until golden and toasty. This buttery crumble is then sprinkled over the noodles, adding a bit of crunch and extra richness to every bite. It takes the soft, buttery noodles to a whole new level.
• Customizable flavors: While the original recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily make it your own with small additions. Try stirring in some minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like parsley, or a bit of lemon zest for brightness. These extras do not overpower the dish but add just enough flavor to make it feel fresh and personal.
• Perfect as a side or main: These noodles are super versatile. Serve them alongside roast chicken, beef, or turkey for a comforting side dish. They also pair well with stews or sautéed vegetables. Or, enjoy them on their own as a main course, especially if you are looking for something simple, quick, and family-friendly. Kids love them, and adults find them just as satisfying.

What is Zehnder’s Buttered Noodles Recipe?

Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth, a well-known restaurant in Michigan, is famous for its family-style chicken dinners. One of the most loved side dishes on their menu is the buttered noodles. These are not your regular noodles with a bit of butter. Instead, they are simmered in seasoned chicken broth, tossed with rich butter, and topped with a buttery crumb mixture made from crushed Ritz and Saltine crackers.

This Zehnder’s buttered noodles recipe has German roots and is similar to the version served at the nearby Bavarian Inn. What makes it special is the way the noodles are cooked. They are boiled directly in the broth, which gives them a deep flavor. After draining, a bit of the broth is mixed back in along with melted butter to keep the noodles moist and flavorful.

To finish, the crumb topping is lightly browned in a skillet and gently mixed with the noodles. The result is a warm, buttery, slightly crunchy side dish that feels like comfort on a plate.

Flavor Variations to Try

Garlic-Parmesan Noodles

Sauté one or two cloves of minced garlic in melted butter until soft and fragrant. Toss the garlic butter with the hot noodles and add about ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The garlic adds warmth and depth, while the Parmesan creates a rich, savory finish.

Herbed Butter Noodles

Chop a handful of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme and stir them into the butter before mixing with the noodles. These herbs bring brightness, aroma, and color that balance out the buttery base. Dill or tarragon also works well for a more delicate twist.

Cheesy Buttered Noodles

Swap half of the butter for a few tablespoons of cream cheese, or stir in shredded cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère while the noodles are still warm. The cheese melts into a creamy sauce that hugs each strand. For a bubbly top, sprinkle with more cheese and broil briefly.

Lemon-Butter Twist

Mix the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice into the butter before tossing with the noodles. This adds a refreshing citrus note that pairs well with chicken or fish. For added flavor, include a few capers or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Chef Recommendations

Use Wide Egg Noodles

Wide egg noodles are essential to getting the right texture and flavor. Their flat, broad surface holds the butter sauce and crumb topping beautifully. Look for German-style or homestyle noodles if available. If not, pappardelle or fettuccine are good substitutes. Stay away from thin noodles like angel hair, which tend to get sticky and soft in this kind of recipe.

Choose High-Quality Butter

Since butter is the star of the dish, its flavor makes a big difference. Use unsalted, sweet cream butter for a clean, rich taste. European-style butters with higher butterfat content create a smoother, silkier coating on the noodles. If you are using salted butter, adjust the added salt in this Zehnder’s buttered noodles recipe to avoid over-seasoning. Melt the butter gently so it stays soft and creamy rather than taking on a browned or nutty flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

How to Store Leftovers

Zehnder’s buttered noodles taste best when served fresh, but you can save the leftovers for later. Once the noodles have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days. If you have already mixed in the cracker topping, the crumbs may soften, but the flavor remains rich and comforting.

Reheat Without Drying Out

To warm up the noodles, place them in a saucepan with a splash of chicken broth or water. Heat gently over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. The added liquid helps restore moisture and prevents the noodles from becoming dry. You can also use the microwave on 50 percent power, stirring in a little butter to bring back the creamy texture. If you saved any of the cracker topping, sprinkle it on just before serving to add crunch.

If you want to prepare the dish in advance, you can cook the noodles and mix them with the butter sauce a day ahead. Store them separately from the cracker topping. Reheat the noodles with a bit of broth right before serving, and toast the crumb topping fresh to keep it crispy.

Best Ways to Serve Buttered Noodles

As a Side Dish for Roasts or Chicken

Zehnder’s buttered noodles taste great with roast chicken, turkey, or beef. The buttery flavor goes well with the juicy meat and is perfect for soaking up gravy. I often serve these noodles with roast chicken on weekends instead of mashed potatoes or rice.

With Light Gravy or Broth

You can also pour a little gravy or broth over the noodles. If you cooked a roast, use the meat drippings to make a simple gravy. Zehnder’s sometimes serves these noodles with extra butter sauce or gravy on the side. This adds more flavor, especially if you eat the noodles as the main dish.

Mixed with Veggies for a Quick Meal

To make a full meal, mix the noodles with cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, mushrooms, or spinach. The butter sauce will coat the veggies, making them tasty and filling. You can also sprinkle some cheese or herbs on top for extra flavor.

 As a Kid-Friendly Main Dish

Kids usually love plain buttered noodles. This version has more flavor but is still simple. You can serve it by itself for lunch or dinner. I sometimes mix in small pieces of leftover chicken to make it more filling.

Nutrition Breakdown

• Calories and Macronutrients: One serving of Zehnder’s buttered noodles (based on four servings total) has around 778 calories. It includes about 98 grams of carbohydrates, 17 grams of protein, and 35 grams of fat. This makes it a rich and filling dish, especially because of the buttery sauce and crumb topping.
• Fats, Cholesterol, and Sodium: Out of the total fat, about 20 grams are saturated fat. Each serving also contains roughly 164 mg of cholesterol and 404 mg of sodium. Because of the butter and crackers, it is higher in fat and salt, so it is best enjoyed as a special dish once in a while.

Want More Classic Comfort Food Recipes?

If you loved Zehnder’s buttered noodles, you will enjoy trying more cozy dishes that bring the same warmth and comfort. Classic recipes like these are made with simple ingredients but are full of flavor. They are perfect for family dinners, weekend meals, or anytime you want something hearty and satisfying.

Try pairing these noodles with homemade chicken and gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, or old-fashioned green bean casserole. You can also explore other comfort foods like baked mac and cheese, slow-cooked pot roast, or buttery garlic mashed cauliflower for a twist.

These kinds of recipes remind us of home, family dinners, and relaxing weekends. Whether you are looking for easy sides or filling mains, adding more of these comforting classics to your kitchen rotation will always be a good idea.

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