Name: Garlic Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or egg noodles; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 8 garlic cloves, finely minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra umami); 1/2 teaspoon sugar; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or scallions, for garnish

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If you’re looking for a quick, flavor-packed meal that’s effortlessly delicious, garlic noodles are the answer! Imagine slurp-worthy noodles coated in a rich, garlicky, buttery sauce with just the right amount of umami goodness. They’re ridiculously easy to make, yet taste like something from your favorite Asian restaurant. Perfect as a side or a main dish, these noodles are a total game-changer. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Noodles

Versatile

Serve them as a quick weeknight dinner, a side for grilled meats, or even as a comforting late-night snack.

Budget-Friendly

Made with simple pantry staples like pasta, garlic, and soy sauce, this dish is easy on the wallet but big on flavor.

Quick and Easy

Ready in just 15 minutes! No complicated steps—just toss everything together and enjoy.

Customizable

Spice it up with chili flakes, add protein like shrimp or chicken, or toss in some veggies for extra texture.

Crowd-Pleasing

Who doesn’t love garlicky, buttery noodles? It’s a dish that both kids and adults will devour.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Garlic Noodles

These noodles come together with just a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients.

Noodles: Spaghetti, ramen, or egg noodles all work beautifully as a base.

Garlic: The star of the show! Freshly minced garlic gives this dish its bold, irresistible flavor.

Butter: Creates a rich, silky sauce that coats every noodle perfectly.

Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami, balancing the butteriness.

Oyster Sauce: A secret ingredient that brings a slightly sweet and savory kick.

Parmesan Cheese: Sounds unusual, but trust me—this adds an incredible depth of flavor.

Brown Sugar: Just a touch to enhance the savory elements and round out the flavors.

Green Onions: For a pop of freshness and color.

Instructions

Cook the Noodles

Boil the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Add the Sauces

Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar. Let it simmer for a few seconds to meld the flavors together.

Toss in the Noodles

Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing them well to coat in the garlicky sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen everything up.

Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and toss again. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate up your noodles while they’re hot and dig in! These are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 400 (approx.)

Notes: The calorie count may vary depending on the type of noodles and additional ingredients used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Noodles

These noodles are incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

As a Side: Pair them with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for a complete meal.
With Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
With Spice: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery kick.
With a Protein Boost: Toss in cooked shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken for a hearty dish.

Additional Tips

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—pre-minced jarred garlic won’t have the same punch.
Don’t overcook the garlic—it can turn bitter if it burns.
For a vegan version, swap butter for olive oil and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the butter and use whole wheat or zucchini noodles.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes! Spaghetti, ramen, udon, or rice noodles all work great.

2. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

Hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little honey can be a good substitute.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

4. Can I make garlic noodles spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili oil for a spicy twist.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water.

6. Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Shrimp, chicken, tofu, or even fried eggs make great additions.

7. What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking?

Toss them with a little oil after draining, or add them to the sauce immediately.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but they’re best served fresh. If making ahead, store the sauce separately and toss with fresh noodles before serving.

9. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has more flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

10. What’s a good side dish for garlic noodles?

A fresh cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or a simple miso soup pairs beautifully.

Conclusion

Garlic noodles are proof that simple ingredients can create something absolutely mouthwatering. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or a flavorful side dish, these noodles will never let you down. So go ahead—whip up a batch, grab your chopsticks, and enjoy every garlicky bite!

Garlic Noodles

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Author: Grace Sullivan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish / Noodles
Method: Boiling & Sautéing
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Garlic Noodles are a savory, comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with hints of soy and a touch of sweetness. Ideal as a standalone meal or a side dish, they offer a delightful balance of flavors that can easily be adapted to your taste.

Ingredients

Units Scale

8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or egg noodles
1/4 cup unsalted butter
8 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or scallions, for garnish

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Mix well to combine.
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat them evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the flavors.

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley or scallions, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sautéing stage.
This dish works well as a base—try tossing in your favorite proteins or vegetables to create a complete meal.
Adjust the level of soy and oyster sauce according to your taste preference.