Garlic Noodles Asian Style (Print Version)

Quick and aromatic noodles in rich garlic butter sauce with Asian-inspired flavors.

# 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 (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 Make It:

01 - Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid for later use.
02 - Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat until melted. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, taking care not to brown.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir continuously until sugar dissolves and sauce is well combined.
04 - Add cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss vigorously using tongs to evenly coat every strand with sauce. Splash in reserved pasta water if mixture appears too thick.
05 - Remove from heat immediately. Scatter scallions, Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds over the top. Serve while hot and steaming.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Ready in 25 minutes but tastes like it came from your favorite Asian fusion restaurant
  • The sauce strikes that perfect balance between savory, sweet, and deeply garlicky without being overwhelming
  • Incredibly versatile, whether you're cooking for picky eaters or foodie friends
02 -
  • Garlic can go from perfectly golden to burnt and bitter in seconds, so don't walk away from the pan during that initial sauté
  • The pasta water trick isn't optional here, it's what transforms the sauce from coating to creamy
  • These noodles reheat surprisingly well with a tiny splash of water and a quick toss in a warm pan
03 -
  • Room temperature butter melts more evenly and won't cause the garlic to cook unevenly
  • If you're making this for garlic lovers, add an extra clove or two, you really can't overdo it