Whenever I have a craving for takeout-style noodles, I whip up this quick and simple homemade version that only takes about 20 minutes. This garlic noodle recipe is a fantastic go-to because of its versatility and ease.
Flexible Ingredients
While I typically use ground pork for these garlic noodles, the recipe accommodates various alternatives like ground chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, tofu, or even plant-based substitutes. This dish is also perfect for using up any vegetables you have on hand. I often include bok choy, broccoli, spinach, carrots, peppers, or bean sprouts, mixing them into the pan with the chosen protein.
The choice of noodles is quite flexible too, based on what you have in your kitchen. My top picks are usually udon or dried ramen noodles, though spaghetti, rice noodles, egg noodles, or soba are excellent options as well.
The Flavorful Sauce
The sauce for these noodles is garlicky with a balance of spice and sweetness. Adjust the heat to your liking by altering the amount of chili oil or sambal, or even by adding fresh chilies. Though not traditional, I love to finish the dish with a bit of butter to give the noodles and sauce an extra silky texture.
Quick Prep Tip
For an even faster preparation, opt for frozen or pre-minced garlic and ginger. You’ll need roughly 2 tablespoons of minced garlic.
How to Prepare My 20-Minute Noodles
To serve four, you will need:
– 10 to 12 ounces of dried noodles like ramen, udon, or spaghetti
– Salt to taste
– 6 green onions, chopped
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
– 1 to 2 teaspoons of sambal oelek or chili oil (adjust based on your spice preference)
– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
– 2 tablespoons of a neutral oil like canola or vegetable
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 1 pound of ground meat (pork, beef, turkey, or chicken)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the noodles until al dente according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
While the noodles are cooking, mix the green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey or brown sugar, sambal or chili oil, sesame oil, and white pepper in a small bowl. Set this sauce mixture aside.
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until soft, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the ground meat, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 4 to 6 minutes.
Combine the cooked noodles, sauce, and butter (if using) with the meat in the skillet. Toss everything together with tongs until the butter has melted and the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Enhance Your Dish with Creative Toppings
These noodles are tasty on their own, but you can elevate them with some creative toppings. Some of my personal favorites include:
– Extra green onions for a stronger allium flavor
– A sprinkle of sesame seeds for a toasty, nutty taste
– Fresh additions like microgreens, bean sprouts, or sliced cucumbers
– A kick of heat with chili flakes or chili crisp
– Added crunch from fried garlic or shallots
Similar Posts
- Quick & Easy: My Go-To 15-Minute Weekly Meal Recipe Revealed!
- 13 Budget-Friendly Dinner Ideas That Will Feed Your Big Family
- Ree Drummond’s Quick 15-Minute Soup Recipe That You’ll Want to Make Weekly!
- Discover the Ultimate Southern Onion Boil: Your New Favorite Side Dish!
- Transform Your Soup Game with This Simple South Asian Secret!
Riley Morgan simplifies health and wellness topics, providing readers with practical advice and insights. Dedicated to empowering others, Riley covers everything from mental health to medical breakthroughs.
