If you’re looking for dinner magic in just twenty minutes, Garlic Noodles will be your new best friend. Imagine silky strands of noodles tossed in a buttery, garlicky sauce that packs an umami punch from soy and oyster sauce, a hint of sweetness, and a pop of green onions. This wildly addictive dish hits every savory note and works as a quick meal or crowd-pleaser side. Whether you crave comfort or want to impress, these Garlic Noodles are about to become a staple on your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Garlic Noodles comes from its humble ingredient list – each one is a star player that makes this simple dish unforgettable. You probably have most on hand already, and every component brings a different flavor, aroma, or texture that transforms something basic into something crave-worthy.
- Spaghetti or ramen noodles (8 ounces): These are the canvas for your sauce – choose whichever you love or have in the pantry.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps meld the sauce flavors together so every bite is luscious.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Blends with butter for a silky sauce and keeps the garlic from burning.
- Garlic, minced (6 cloves): The star ingredient! Fresh garlic infuses the noodles with irresistible aroma and deep flavor.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings in saltiness and a savory depth without overpowering.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds sweet, briny notes and luxurious umami. Vegetarian versions work well, too.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Just a bit balances out the salt and highlights the garlic’s complexity.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): For that subtle toasty finish that lingers on your palate.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a little bite and rounds out the other flavors.
- Green onions, sliced (2): A crisp, peppery garnish that adds color and a pop of freshness.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a creamy, nutty finish that’s surprisingly perfect here.
- Red pepper flakes or chili oil (optional): If you love heat, this little addition will wake up your tastebuds!
How to Make Garlic Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking your noodles according to the package directions until they’re perfectly al dente. You want just a little bite to them, as they’ll get tossed in the hot skillet later and finish cooking there. Once they’re done, drain them well and set aside so they’re ready when your sauce comes together. Don’t forget to reserve a small splash of the cooking water in case you want to loosen up the sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Next, in a large skillet or wok, melt the butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add in the minced garlic. Sauté it gently for about 1 to 2 minutes, constantly stirring. The goal is to get it aromatic and sizzling but not browned or burnt, which would make it bitter. Your kitchen should smell absolutely fantastic right now!
Step 3: Build the Sauce
With your garlic fragrant but pale, stir in the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk everything together so that the sweet, salty, and savory notes blend into a silky, cohesive sauce. Give it a taste – you want every flavor to sing!
Step 4: Toss the Noodles
Add your drained noodles straight into the pan with the sauce. Using tongs, toss everything together until the noodles are thoroughly coated and glossy. This should take only a couple minutes; the sauce will cling beautifully to every strand, and the noodles will soak up all that flavor. If things seem a bit too dry, drip in a teaspoon or two of reserved cooking water until you reach your desired sauciness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and immediately sprinkle on the sliced green onions and, if you like, the grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a final quick toss. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil. Serve these Garlic Noodles right away while they’re hot, glossy, and utterly inviting!
How to Serve Garlic Noodles
Garnishes
Green onions are a classic, providing bright color and a crisp snap. Parmesan cheese might sound unexpected, but it melts into the noodles for extra depth and creaminess. For those who love a touch of heat, red pepper flakes or chili oil work wonders. Don’t be shy to get creative! Try toasted sesame seeds or even crispy fried shallots for a signature finish.
Side Dishes
Garlic Noodles pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Think quickly sautéed veggies like bok choy, snap peas, or shiitake mushrooms for color and crunch. Protein lovers will adore them alongside grilled shrimp, sliced chicken breast, or crispy tofu. For a simple meal, add a light salad with ginger dressing or a plate of pickled cucumbers for zingy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Garlic Noodles into an elegant main course by twirling them high in a shallow bowl and topping with sesame seeds, herbs, or a soft-boiled egg. For gatherings, serve them family-style on a large platter and let everyone dive in. For fun weeknight dinners, serve in takeout containers with chopsticks. You can even transform leftovers into a noodle stir-fry with any roasted veggies or protein you have in the fridge!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have some Garlic Noodles left after dinner? Pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making lunch the next day just as exciting. For best results, store any garnishes separately and add them after reheating.
Freezing
While Garlic Noodles taste best fresh, you can freeze them in a pinch. Cool the noodles thoroughly, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to one month. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy. Note that the texture may soften a bit upon reheating, but the flavors will still shine.
Reheating
To reheat Garlic Noodles, sprinkle them lightly with water or broth, then microwave in 30-second intervals, tossing gently between each blast until hot. Alternatively, sauté them in a nonstick skillet with a splash of water or oil on medium heat. Add fresh garnishes after reheating for the best texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I make Garlic Noodles gluten free?
Absolutely! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free noodle and use tamari instead of soy sauce. Many stores now carry vegetarian oyster sauce as well, which is perfect if you’re avoiding shellfish. The result is just as delicious and completely satisfying.
What protein works best with Garlic Noodles?
Grilled shrimp or chicken are stellar classic options, but don’t overlook tofu for a vegetarian spin. Even quick-seared beef strips or a fried egg make a luxurious pairing. The noodles soak up any juices from your protein, making every bite irresistible.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Toss in blanched broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, or baby spinach for a burst of color and vitality. Sauté them alongside the garlic for a few minutes before finishing the sauce and adding your noodles. It’s the perfect way to sneak in extra nutrition (and clean out the fridge).
Why is Parmesan cheese in an Asian-inspired noodle dish?
It’s a twist borrowed from fusion recipes and adds a creamy, savory edge that melds beautifully with the soy and oyster sauces. You can skip it if you’re dairy-free, but if you love umami, give it a chance. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy the flavor!
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, Garlic Noodles scale up beautifully. Just use a larger skillet or wok so everything tosses together evenly. You might need to cook your noodles in batches, but the sauce doubles without a headache. It’s a fantastic option for parties, potlucks, or hungry family gatherings!
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a cozy solo supper or a lively get-together, Garlic Noodles have a way of making every meal feel special. They’re easy, quick, and packed with so much bold flavor that you’ll want to make them again and again. Grab your favorite noodles and give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Garlic Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Noodles is a flavorful and easy-to-make Asian-inspired noodle dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates a savory sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.
Ingredients
Spaghetti or Ramen Noodles:
8 ounces
Unsalted Butter:
2 tablespoons
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Garlic:
6 cloves, minced
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce:
2 tablespoons
Oyster Sauce:
1 tablespoon
Brown Sugar:
1 tablespoon
Sesame Oil:
1 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
¼ teaspoon
Green Onions:
2, sliced
Grated Parmesan Cheese:
1 tablespoon (optional)
Red Pepper Flakes or Chili Oil:
Optional for heat
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or wok, heat butter and olive oil. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce: Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the pan, toss to coat in the sauce, and cook until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a heartier dish, add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu.
- You can substitute gluten-free noodles and tamari for a gluten-free version.
- These noodles make a great base for stir-fry veggies or leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
