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Nostalgic Cafeteria Noodles: A Comfort Food Classic Reimagined

Relive your school days with this easy and delicious Cafeteria Noodles recipe. A comforting, savory pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 -6
Course: Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound dried pasta such as egg noodles, elbow macaroni, or spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey optional, for a heartier dish
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using ground meat, add it to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it's melted and incorporated into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.