Garlic noodles are the perfect dish for anyone who loves big flavor in a short amount of time. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a savory, satisfying meal in 10 minutes.

This quick recipe balances the richness of butter, the aromatic kick of garlic, and a touch of heat, making it a go-to for busy nights or whenever you're craving something comforting.

Let's jump straight into making these simple yet irresistible garlic noodles that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why Garlic Noodles Are A Perfect Quick Meal

Garlic noodles are the epitome of quick and easy comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of your time, you can create a satisfying dish that’s full of rich, savory flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity.

They can be served as a side dish or as a main course, and they pair perfectly with a wide variety of proteins like shrimp, chicken, or tofu. Plus, if you prefer a vegan option, it’s easy to swap out the butter for olive oil or your favorite plant-based alternative. Food safety is importantwhen preparing any meal. Always ensure that your ingredients are stored properly, and make sure your noodles are cooked to the correct temperature to avoid any foodborne illnesses.

Key Ingredients

• Noodles: Any type of noodles will work, from spaghetti to rice noodles. Choose your favorite or go with whatever you have on hand.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. It infuses the oil with an aromatic depth of flavor.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is commonly used for its rich, creamy taste. For a healthier option, you can substitute it with olive oil or coconut oil.
• Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and depth to the noodles. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to keep it lighter.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but grated Parmesangives the noodles a savory, umami boost.
• Chili Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a mild heat that balances the richness of the butter and garlic.
• Green Onion: A garnish of chopped green onions adds a fresh, crisp finish to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Noodles: If you're gluten-sensitive, you can easily substitute gluten-free pasta or rice noodles in place of regular noodles.
• Vegan Options: Replace butter with vegan margarine or olive oil. You can also omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based version.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: For those watching their sodium intake, opting for low-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish flavorful without the added salt.

Directions

10 Minute Garlic Chili Noodles - Super Easy Recipe!

Step 1: Boil The Noodles

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, this will help season the noodles as they cook. Once the water is boiling, add your noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 7-8 minutes for spaghetti or other pasta types). Drain the noodles but save about ½ cup of pasta water for later, this will help create a silky sauce.

Step 2: Prepare The Garlic Butter Sauce

While the noodles are cooking, start on the garlic butter sauce. In a large skillet or pan, melt 2-3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 4-5 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, you want it aromatic but not bitter.

Step 3: Season The Sauce

Once the garlic has softened and released its fragrance, add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir well, allowing the sauce to simmer for a minute so all the flavors meld together. If you like a bit more heat, feel free to add more chili flakes.

Step 4: Combine Noodles And Sauce

Add the drained noodles to the pan with the garlic butter sauce. Toss the noodles in the sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. If the mixture looks too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a silky, glossy sauce.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Once the noodles are perfectly coated, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again to combine. Garnish with chopped green onions for a burst of color and freshness.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Serve your 10-minute garlic noodles hot, as a main dish or alongside your favorite protein. Enjoy the balance of rich garlic butter, savory soy sauce, and a hint of spice. It's a dish that's as comforting as it is quick!

Tips For Perfecting Garlic Noodles

• Infuse the Garlic in Oil First: For a more intense garlic flavor, try infusing the garlic in the oil (or butter) before adding the noodles. Cook with less oilby using just enough to infuse the garlic, then toss in the noodles to coat them without excess oil.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to this recipe. Pre-minced garlic or garlic powder won’t give the same depth of flavor, so make sure you use fresh cloves.
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so once it starts to brown, remove it from the heat. Burnt garlic will make the dish bitter.
• Customize Your Protein: Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu for a more substantial meal. Stir-fry your protein separately, and then add it on top or mix it in with the noodles.
• Add Extra Veggies: For a more nutritious dish, toss in some sautéed veggieslike spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

FAQs

How Do I Prevent My Garlic From Burning In The Noodles?

Garlic burns quickly, so be sure to sauté it over medium heat and keep a close eye on it. Once the garlic turns golden, remove it from the heat to prevent it from turning bitter.

Can I Use Gluten-free Noodles For This Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any gluten-free noodles such as rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti. Just follow the package directions for cooking, and the rest of the recipe stays the same.

Can I Make Garlic Noodles Without Butter Or Oil?

Yes! You can easily make garlic noodles with olive oil, coconut oil, or a vegan butter substitute. The oil will still give you a rich flavor without the dairy.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or extra oil to keep the noodles from drying out.

Final Thoughts

10-minute garlic noodles are a foolproof way to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal in no time. With endless opportunities to customize the dish to your taste, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a side or as the main event.

The next time you’re in a rush but craving something delicious, this recipe has got you covered. So grab your garlic, heat up your pan, and enjoy a bowl of savory goodness that’s ready before you know it.