Garlic Noodles
A Simple Yet Flavorful Noodle Dish
Garlic noodles are one of those dishes that seem deceptively simple but deliver incredible flavor. A mix of buttery, garlicky goodness combined with umami-packed seasonings makes this dish absolutely irresistible. Whether you serve them as a quick side dish or as a meal on their own, these garlic noodles are guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
- Packed with flavor – A perfect balance of garlic, butter, and umami-rich sauces.
- Versatile – Pairs well with seafood, chicken, or vegetables.
Ingredient Notes
- Noodles – Use egg noodles or spaghetti for the best texture.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key to the bold flavor.
- Butter – Creates a rich, silky sauce.
- Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce – Add depth and umami.
- Parmesan Cheese – A surprising but delicious addition for extra richness.
- Green Onions – For a fresh, slightly sharp contrast.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty aroma (optional but recommended).
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water.
2. Make the Garlic Sauce
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
- Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar, mixing well.
3. Toss the Noodles
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
4. Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Noodles
- Use fresh garlic – Pre-minced garlic won’t give the same depth of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic – Sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve pasta water – It helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish with Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki salmon or stir-fried vegetables.
- Add chili flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave with a damp paper towel on top to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different noodles?
Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, spaghetti, ramen, or udon work well too.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
Try hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of Worcestershire sauce for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based butter and substitute oyster sauce with hoisin or soy sauce.
Final Thoughts
These Garlic Noodles are quick, easy, and packed with flavor! Whether you’re making them as a side dish or enjoying them as a main meal, they’ll always hit the spot. Give them a try and let me know how you like them!
PrintGarlic Noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings (adjusted for 2–4 extra servings) 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Noodles are a simple yet flavorful dish featuring buttery, garlicky goodness mixed with umami-rich seasonings. These noodles come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect as a side dish or a satisfying meal on their own. Pair them with seafood, chicken, or veggies for a restaurant-quality experience right at home!
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles (or spaghetti, ramen, or udon)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced – for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for a nutty aroma)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed, to loosen the sauce)
Instructions
-
Cook the Noodles
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
-
Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
-
Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water.
-
-
Make the Garlic Sauce
-
In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.
-
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
-
Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar, mixing well.
-
-
Toss the Noodles
-
Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce.
-
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
-
-
Finish and Serve
-
Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese.
-
Garnish with sliced green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil.
-
Serve immediately and enjoy!
-
Notes
- Use fresh garlic – Pre-minced garlic won’t deliver the same depth of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic – Sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve pasta water – Helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg