Our easy garlic butter noodles recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast. Kids and adults alike love this simple skillet meal. You can use any type of pasta you have on hand to make a comforting garlic butter pasta dinner that feels a little special without extra effort.
Garlic Noodle Recipe
Simple and restaurant-worthy without breaking the budget. These garlic noodles are full of flavor and very quick to prepare. If you love garlic, noodles and butter, this dish is for you. Serve it plain as a cozy side, toss it with vegetables or add your preferred protein to make it a complete weeknight entrée. The recipe scales easily, so it works just as well for a family dinner or a small batch for two.
Recipe Video
Watch the short video demonstration below to see the simple steps in action and get a feel for timing and texture.
Tips on How to Make Garlic Noodles
This budget-friendly meal is extremely versatile. Here are practical tips to customize the flavors and texture:
- Fresh garlic: Fresh cloves give the brightest, most pungent flavor. Increase or decrease the amount to suit your taste.
- Jarred garlic: Pre-minced garlic works in a pinch but is milder; add a bit more if you prefer a strong garlic punch.
- Add protein: Shrimp, chicken, beef or tofu are all excellent additions. Cook them separately or in the same pan if time allows.
- More vegetables: Broccoli, kale, cauliflower, shredded carrots, cabbage or sautéed onions add color and nutrition.
- Fresh herbs: Chopped green onions, cilantro, mint or basil brighten the dish. Mint pairs particularly well with the buttery garlicky sauce for a fresh contrast.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt or salty condiments like soy sauce or fish sauce—these add depth and prevent blandness.
- Spice: If you like heat, stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce or a spoonful of chili crisp for a spicy, savory kick.
Garlic Noodles
Ingredients
- 6 oz. dry noodles — about 2 (3.5 oz) instant ramen packages or use any pasta such as spaghetti
- 4 Tablespoons butter, or more to taste
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced or sliced
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon soy sauce (or Maggi seasoning or fish sauce; if using fish sauce start with 2 teaspoons)
- 1 Tablespoon oyster sauce, hoisin, or any preferred savory sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, parsley, basil, etc.)
- 3 stalks green onions or scallions, chopped
- Additional salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Boil the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside, then wipe the pot clean.
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Return the pot or use a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and, when it begins to sizzle, add the garlic. Fry for about 1 minute until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.
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Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce and oyster sauce until combined.
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Add the cooked noodles immediately and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
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Remove from heat and transfer to bowls or plates.
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Top with green onions and chopped fresh herbs. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Video
Nutrition Information per Serving
Carbohydrates: 66 g,
Protein: 11 g,
Fat: 36 g
What Types of Noodles Work Best?
Garlic butter noodles are forgiving and adaptable. Use whichever noodles are in your pantry. Here are common options that pair well with the sauce:
- Packaged ramen noodles: A quick pantry hack—cook the noodles and skip the flavor packet. The recipe measures for about two packages, so halve the seasonings if using one package.
- Asian egg noodles: Chow mein or lo mein noodles are classic and cook quickly.
- Medium or wide egg noodles: Hold the sauce nicely and have a comforting texture.
- Italian pasta: Spaghetti, angel hair or fettuccine all work well—toss them directly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Rice noodles: Light and delicate, rice noodles (Pad Thai style) pair beautifully with the buttery garlic sauce.
- Somen or buckwheat noodles: Japanese or buckwheat noodles offer a different flavor and texture if you want variety.
Can These Noodles Be Eaten Cold? Make-Ahead Tips
Yes—these garlic noodles are great for picnics and potlucks and can be served cold. Because butter can firm up at room temperature, a few adjustments help ensure a better texture for make-ahead servings.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of a neutral oil (grapeseed, canola or olive oil) to the sauce when making it. The oil helps keep the dressing pourable when chilled.
- Store the sauce separately in a jar and toss it with the noodles just before serving to keep the noodles from becoming soggy.
- Cook the noodles ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. Toss with the sauce and fresh herbs right before serving cold.
- For added richness, grate some Parmesan over the noodles just before serving.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, microwave briefly until hot; add a little melted butter or a splash of oil if the noodles have absorbed the sauce and seem dry. Re-season to taste after reheating.
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