🍜 15-Minute Garlic Butter Noodles

These garlic noodles are the answer to "I’m hungry and there’s nothing in the house." The sauce is five pantry staples, the noodles cook in minutes, and everything comes together in one pan. They’re great on their own and even better topped with a fried egg, leftover chicken, or quick-seared vegetables.

🔪 Prep: 5 min ⏱ Cook: 10 min 👥 Serves: 2 📊 Difficulty: Easy
15-Minute Garlic Butter Noodles — finished dish

Method

  1. Cook the noodles in well-salted boiling water until just al dente. Before draining, scoop out and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
  2. While the noodles cook, stir together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
  3. Melt the butter in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook gently for 2 minutes until softened and fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in the sauce mixture and let it bubble for 30 seconds.
  5. Add the drained noodles and a splash of the reserved cooking water. Toss constantly for 1–2 minutes until the sauce turns glossy and clings to every strand.
  6. Take off the heat, toss through the spring onions, and finish with chilli flakes and sesame seeds if you like.
Cook's tip: The starchy noodle water is the secret — it emulsifies the butter and soy into a glossy sauce instead of a greasy one. Never skip reserving it.

Variations & Swaps

  • Add shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover roast vegetables.
  • Stir in a spoonful of chilli crisp for a spicy version.
  • Use tamari and maple syrup to make it gluten-free and vegan (skip the butter for oil).

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