Introduction

Garlic Noodles are a simple yet flavorful dish that combines perfectly cooked noodles with a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare and makes a satisfying meal or side that’s bursting with savory umami notes.

A black bowl holds three main layers: the bottom layer is light beige cooked ramen noodles mixed with green scallion pieces, giving a slightly shiny texture; on one side lies a bright green bunch of tender broccolini topped with black sesame seeds; the top layer is a sunny-side-up fried egg with a vibrant orange runny yolk spilling slightly onto the noodles and sprinkled with black sesame seeds; a pair of wooden chopsticks lift some noodles from the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

140g (5oz) dried ramen or noodle cakes (2 cakes)
30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter

2 tbsp (6 cloves) garlic, finely minced
2 tsp oyster sauce (substitute vegetarian oyster sauce if desired)

2 tsp fish sauce (substitute soy sauce if preferred)
1 1/2 tsp Maggi seasoning (substitute soy sauce as an alternative)

1/4 cup noodle cooking water (more if needed)
1/4 cup finely grated parmesan (freshly grated)
1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced (about 1 stem)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the noodles according to the packet directions in a large saucepan. Before draining, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the cooking water and set it aside. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring gently until softened and fragrant, but not browned.
Step 3: Stir in the oyster sauce, fish sauce, Maggi seasoning, and 1/4 cup of the reserved cooking water. Mix well to combine the sauce ingredients.

Step 4: Add the cooked noodles back into the saucepan along with the grated parmesan and sliced green onion. Toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated and there’s no excess sauce pooling at the bottom. If the noodles seem dry, add more cooking water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Serve the garlic noodles immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Step 6 (Optional): Enhance your meal by serving with a fried egg and broccolini. Cook the broccolini with the noodles if you like—it takes about 3 minutes, so add it to the pot before or during the last moments of noodle cooking. Toss with an Asian Sesame Dressing for an extra tasty touch.

Tips & Variations

Use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce substitutes to make the dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness.
Toss in cooked broccolini or other greens for added texture and nutrition.

Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
If you prefer, substitute ramen noodles with spaghetti or another noodle type of your choice.

Storage

Store leftover garlic noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Avoid reheating in the microwave to keep the sauce silky.

How to Serve

A black round plate holds three main layers: at the bottom, light yellow cooked noodles mixed with small green sliced scallions, showing soft texture and slight glisten; on the right side, a pair of brown wooden chopsticks gently lifts some noodles; on the top left, a perfectly fried sunny side up egg with a bright orange runny yolk and white edged with light crispiness, sprinkled with black sesame seeds; next to the egg, vibrant green stalks of broccolini also topped with black sesame seeds, creating a fresh contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled texture, with soft natural lighting highlighting the colors and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles besides ramen cakes?

Yes, you can substitute ramen with other noodles such as spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

What can I substitute for Maggi seasoning if I don’t have it?

If you don’t have Maggi seasoning, soy sauce works well as a substitute. It provides a similar umami flavor that complements the garlic and butter sauces.