Are you ready to experience a burst of flavor in just under 20 minutes? Garlic Noodles are a culinary delight that can turn a simple meal into a gourmet experience. Rich and buttery, these noodles are not only quick and easy to prepare, but they also combine everyday pantry staples to create a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a satisfying main course or a delightful side dish, garlic noodles are irresistibly delicious and wonderfully comforting. The magic of garlic shines through in every bite, and the addition of Parmesan cheese gives it that creamy texture we all crave. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this savory journey of culinary bliss!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water — this is crucial for flavoring the pasta. Carefully drop in the 8 oz of spaghetti and cook according to package directions until it reaches the al dente stage, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Remember, it’s better to taste the noodles as they cook to ensure they don’t become overdone. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the spaghetti.
While the spaghetti is cooking, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt, swirling the pan gently to help the butter cover the base evenly. Once the butter has melted and is starting to sizzle, pique your senses by adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes or until it becomes fragrant, but take care not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Next, to enhance the flavors, pour in the 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir these ingredients together until the sugar has completely dissolved in the mixture. This sweet and savory combination is what makes the garlic noodles truly stand out!
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Carefully add the drained spaghetti into the skillet. Use tongs or a fork to gently toss and coat the noodles in the buttery garlic sauce. If you find that the noodles seem a bit dry, now is the time to add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency. The sauce should cling to the spaghetti perfectly!
Once the noodles are well combined with the sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like an extra kick, the 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Continue tossing the noodles until they are evenly coated and glossy, allowing the cheese to melt and infuse into the dish.
Serve your garlic noodles hot from the skillet, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Your plate will not only be a feast for the tummy but for the eyes as well!
Variations
One of the beautiful aspects of garlic noodles is their adaptability. You can easily customize this dish based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few optional tweaks that can elevate your meal:
- Protein Additions: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn it into a hearty main dish.
- Vegetable Boost: Add in seasonal vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or steamed broccoli for a colorful and nutritious touch.
- Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin for a unique flavor. You can also add a splash of sesame oil for an Asian twist.
- Herbal Enhancements: Incorporate fragrant herbs such as basil or cilantro for a fresh lift, adding that extra sparkle to your garlic noodles.
Cooking Notes
Here are some helpful tips to ensure you create the best garlic noodles each time:
- Timing: Keep an eye on the spaghetti as it cooks; al dente is key for the best texture. Remember that pasta will continue to cook slightly even after being drained.
- Butter Browning: If you want to deepen the flavor, allow the butter to brown slightly in the skillet before adding the garlic, but again, be mindful of burning.
- Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is crucial for achieving a silky sauce. Don’t skimp on reserving enough!
- Prepare your pantry: Ensure all of your ingredients are ready to go before you start cooking to streamline your process. This way, your noodles will be hot and fresh when served.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic noodles are incredibly versatile and can be served on their own or paired with various dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving these noodles alongside:
- Grilled or roasted vegetables for a healthy side.
- Protein of your choice, like grilled chicken or seafood.
- A fresh side salad with vinaigrette for brightness.
- Top it off with additional Parmesan or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy finish.
Tips
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor, as jarred garlic can lack the vibrant taste.
- For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream alongside the Parmesan.
- Make it gluten-free by swapping spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta option.
- Feel free to adjust the levels of soy sauce and brown sugar according to your taste preferences — some may prefer a saltier or sweeter sauce!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I make garlic noodles vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the butter with a vegan alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
Can I store leftover garlic noodles?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture.
What can I serve alongside garlic noodles?
Garlic noodles pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled meats, stir-fried vegetables, or even on their own with a sprinkle of green onions.
Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy. Just sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, garlic noodles can be made ahead of time and stored for meal prep. Just ensure you keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to eat for the best texture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, garlic noodles stand out as a must-try dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone dish or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite proteins, they’re bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal time, you can create a dish that boasts both comfort and satisfaction. We invite you to try your hand at this quick recipe and share your own variations! Have you made garlic noodles before or tried out any unexpected ingredients? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow food lovers!
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Garlic Noodles
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Noodles are a culinary delight that can turn a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water — this is crucial for flavoring the pasta. Carefully drop in the 8 oz of spaghetti and cook according to package directions until it reaches the al dente stage, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Remember, it’s better to taste the noodles as they cook to ensure they don’t become overdone. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the spaghetti.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt, swirling the pan gently to help the butter cover the base evenly. Once the butter has melted and is starting to sizzle, pique your senses by adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes or until it becomes fragrant, but take care not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Next, to enhance the flavors, pour in the 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir these ingredients together until the sugar has completely dissolved in the mixture. This sweet and savory combination is what makes the garlic noodles truly stand out!
- Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Carefully add the drained spaghetti into the skillet. Use tongs or a fork to gently toss and coat the noodles in the buttery garlic sauce. If you find that the noodles seem a bit dry, now is the time to add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency. The sauce should cling to the spaghetti perfectly!
- Once the noodles are well combined with the sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like an extra kick, the 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Continue tossing the noodles until they are evenly coated and glossy, allowing the cheese to melt and infuse into the dish.
- Serve your garlic noodles hot from the skillet, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Your plate will not only be a feast for the tummy but for the eyes as well!
Notes
Timing is key for the best texture. Don’t skimp on reserving enough pasta water!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 15 g