A Fast, Flavor-Packed Dish for Any Time of Day
Quick Soy Sauce Noodles are a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that comes together in under 15 minutes. With chewy noodles coated in a savory, umami-rich sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you just need a quick and delicious meal. Made with pantry staples, it’s a go-to dish that can be customized to suit your tastes.
Why I Love This Recipe?
There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of noodles, especially when they’re tossed in a deeply flavorful soy sauce mixture. This dish reminds me of late-night meals, quick lunches, and those times when you want something delicious without a lot of effort.
What makes this version special? It’s all about the balance of flavors—savory soy sauce, a touch of sweetness, and just the right amount of garlic and sesame oil. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable. You can add vegetables, protein, or spice it up to make it your own!
Ingredient Notes
- Noodles: Use fresh or dried noodles such as lo mein, ramen, udon, or even spaghetti in a pinch.
- Soy Sauce: A mix of light and dark soy sauce gives depth of flavor.
- Garlic & Green Onions: Adds an aromatic boost to the dish.
- Sesame Oil: Gives a rich, toasty flavor.
- Sugar: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
- Oyster Sauce (Optional): Adds extra umami and richness.
- Chili Flakes (Optional): For a little heat.
Substitutions:
- Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Swap sugar for honey or brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.
- Add mushrooms, bok choy, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauces, sugar, sesame oil, and oyster sauce (if using).
- Sauté Garlic & Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan, add garlic and green onions, and cook until fragrant.
- Toss Everything Together: Add the drained noodles to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep them slightly firm so they don’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Mix the Sauce Separately: This ensures an even coating on the noodles.
- Use High Heat: Tossing the noodles quickly over high heat helps infuse them with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fried egg on top for extra richness.
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables or tofu for a balanced meal.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef for extra protein.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may become too soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant noodles? Yes! Just cook them briefly and toss them with the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicy? Add chili flakes, sriracha, or a dash of chili oil.
Can I make this without sesame oil? Yes, but the sesame oil adds a signature flavor. Try using a little peanut or olive oil instead.
Final Thoughts
Quick Soy Sauce Noodles are the ultimate easy meal—simple, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you eat them as a snack, side dish, or main meal, they’re sure to satisfy. Let me know in the comments how you enjoyed them and any fun twists you added!
Print
Quick Soy Sauce Noodles
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Quick Soy Sauce Noodles are a fast, flavorful dish ready in just 15 minutes! Chewy noodles are coated in a savory, umami-rich sauce, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights, late-night cravings, or quick lunches. With simple pantry staples, it’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like veggies, protein, or spice.
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz fresh or dried noodles (lo mein, ramen, udon, or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for deep color and umami)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup mushrooms, bok choy, or bell peppers – for extra veggies
- 1 cup cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef)
- 1 fried egg – for added richness
Instructions
-
Cook the Noodles:
- Boil noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili flakes.
-
Sauté Garlic & Aromatics:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and green onions, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Toss Everything Together:
- Add the drained noodles to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss quickly to coat evenly.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Pair with a fried egg, stir-fried vegetables, or grilled protein for a heartier meal!
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep them slightly firm so they don’t become mushy.
- Use High Heat: Tossing the noodles quickly over high heat helps infuse them with flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and use rice noodles.
Nutrition
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg