Cafeteria Noodles: A Nostalgic Comfort Dish Reimagined

A step-by-step guide to making this beloved, simple, and savory classic

Cafeteria noodles—just hearing the name might take you back to school days, lunch trays, and the unmistakable aroma wafting through long cafeteria lines. This humble dish was a staple in school lunch programs across the U.S. for decades, and for good reason: it’s budget-friendly, filling, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make.

But don’t be fooled by the simplicity. When made right, cafeteria noodles are a creamy, savory, and heartwarming bowl of comfort that can still satisfy the modern palate. This article will walk you through the process of making cafeteria noodles from scratch, adding a few optional upgrades if you’re feeling adventurous.

What Are Cafeteria Noodles?

Cafeteria noodles are typically made from egg noodles simmered in a savory beef broth with butter and seasonings, often thickened slightly to create a silky, almost gravy-like texture. They’re soft, tender, and comforting — a perfect side dish or even a standalone meal when you just want something warm and hearty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Classic Version:

12 oz wide egg noodles
4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp water (to dissolve the cornstarch)

Optional Upgrades (for a modern twist):

½ cup cooked shredded beef or rotisserie chicken
½ cup heavy cream for extra richness
Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
A dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for umami boost

Step-by-Step Method to Make Cafeteria Noodles

Step 1: Boil the Broth

In a large pot, bring the beef broth to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. The broth serves as both your cooking liquid and flavor base, so use a good quality stock or homemade broth if available.