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Creamy Cafeteria Noodles

Rich, nostalgic egg noodles with lobster in thick cream sauce, perfect for comfort food dinners and special occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 1 pound wide egg noodles
Cream Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon paprika
Protein & Garnish
  • 1 pound cooked lobster meat cut into chunks
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Heavy-bottom saucepan or large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the wide egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet or heavy-bottom saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it begins to foam, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking continuously to form a smooth roux, and cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly, then slowly add the heavy cream and whole milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is completely smooth.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Add the softened cream cheese in small pieces, stirring until it melts completely and incorporates smoothly into the sauce.
  7. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika, mixing until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes glossy and thick.
  8. Add the cooked lobster chunks to the cream sauce and stir gently to coat, allowing the seafood to warm through for about 2-3 minutes without overcooking.
  9. Add the drained egg noodles to the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated, adding a splash of pasta cooking water if the sauce seems too thick.
  10. Transfer to serving dish or individual bowls, garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

Can substitute lobster with shrimp, crab, or chicken. Add extra milk or cream when reheating leftovers to restore creamy consistency. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days.