Savory Garlic Noodles (Printable version)

Quick savory noodles in rich buttery garlic sauce ready in 25 minutes

# What you need:

→ 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
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:

01 - Prepare noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid.
02 - In a large skillet or wok, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Whisk until sugar dissolves and sauce is well combined.
04 - Add cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss vigorously with tongs or wooden spoon until evenly coated in sauce. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce appears too thick.
05 - Remove from heat immediately. Scatter with scallions, Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds as desired. Plate while hot and serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The sauce comes together in minutes but tastes like it simmered for hours
  • Perfect for those nights when you want restaurant quality with zero effort
  • Infinitely adaptable to whatever proteins or veggies you have on hand
02 -
  • Burned garlic turns bitter instantly, so keep your eye on it and lower the heat the moment it smells fragrant
  • The pasta water trick is essential for that glossy restaurant style coating
03 -
  • Grate your garlic on a microplane for a paste that melts into the sauce effortlessly
  • Room temperature butter melts faster and more evenly than cold from the fridge