Savory Garlic Noodles (Print)

Quick Asian-style noodles with rich garlic butter sauce and savory umami flavors.

# Ingredient List:

→ Noodles

01 - 8 oz spaghetti or Asian wheat noodles

→ Sauce

02 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 3 tbsp olive oil
04 - 8 large garlic cloves, finely minced
05 - 2 tbsp light soy sauce
06 - 2 tsp oyster sauce (vegetarian oyster sauce, if needed)
07 - 1 tbsp brown sugar
08 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnishes

09 - 2 tbsp finely chopped scallions
10 - 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
11 - 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
02 - In a large skillet or wok, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
03 - Lower the heat and add soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
04 - Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the noodles in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for silkiness.
05 - Remove from heat. Top with scallions, Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds as desired.
06 - Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The sauce creates this incredible glossy coating that clings to every single strand of noodles
  • You probably have everything in your pantry right now, making it perfect for those I dont want to go to the store nights
  • It hits that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and rich that makes you want to lick the plate
02 -
  • Burned garlic turns bitter and ruins the whole dish, so watch it like a hawk and lower the heat the second you see any golden edges
  • The pasta water trick is not optional, it is what transforms the sauce from a coating into something that actually clings to the noodles
03 -
  • Mince your garlic by hand instead of using a press for better texture and more even cooking
  • Room temperature ingredients help the sauce come together faster and more smoothly