If you’ve ever dreamed of a noodle dish bursting with rich, garlicky flavor yet incredibly simple to whip up, this Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. With a beautiful harmony of buttery garlic, savory soy sauce, and just a touch of sweetness, these noodles bring comfort and excitement to every forkful. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive side, this recipe transforms basic pantry ingredients into something truly spectacular that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building the signature flavor and texture of the Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe. From the pasta that carries the sauce to the fresh garlic that bursts with aroma, every component is essential.
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine: Choose your favorite long pasta to perfectly soak up the garlicky sauce.
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced: The star of the dish, delivering bold, irresistible aroma and taste.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to coat every strand of noodle.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Gives deep umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- 1 tsp sugar: A subtle sweet balance to complement the salty soy and garlic.
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly: Adds freshness, color, and a mild crunch at the very end.
How to Make Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook until just al dente, following the package timings closely. Al dente is key because it means the noodles hold up well when tossed in the buttery sauce without becoming mushy. Before draining the noodles, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water—it’s a clever trick to help create a silky sauce later.
Step 2: Infuse Butter with Garlic
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as the butter is melted and sizzling gently, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute or until fragrant but not browned; burnt garlic would inject bitterness instead of the lovely savory notes you want. This simple garlic butter base is what makes this Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe unforgettable.
Step 3: Combine Noodles with Sauce
Next, add your drained noodles directly into the skillet with the garlic butter. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle the sugar on top. Gently toss everything together so the noodles are evenly coated with this flavor-packed mixture. The sugar helps to mellow and brighten the umami-rich soy, rounding out the flavor profile very nicely.
Step 4: Adjust Creaminess with Pasta Water
If the noodles seem a bit dry or sticky, slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing. This starchy water works magic by loosening the sauce and giving it a glossy, creamy texture that clings beautifully to every strand. The goal is a perfect balance of saucy and silky without being soupy.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Green Onions
Finally, remove the pan from heat and toss in the thinly sliced green onions. They add a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color contrast that brightens the whole dish. Serve these garlicky noodles hot straight from the pan for maximum flavor and texture delight.
How to Serve Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic recipe shines on its own, adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil elevates the flavor and adds beautiful texture contrast. A few extra sliced green onions or chopped fresh cilantro can brighten the plate and make it look irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple Asian-inspired sides. Think crisp steamed or stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli to add freshness and crunch. For protein, a grilled piece of chicken or some pan-seared tofu makes it a wholesome and balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn the Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe into a noodle bowl topped with sliced avocado, a soft-boiled egg, and a squeeze of lime. You can also toss in sautéed mushrooms or roasted peanuts for added depth and texture. Presentation doesn’t have to be fancy to wow guests—it’s all about the love and little touches!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. The noodles will continue absorbing the sauce as they chill, so they might become a bit drier than freshly made.
Freezing
I don’t generally recommend freezing this noodle dish because the texture and flavor of the garlic butter sauce can suffer. The noodles tend to become mushy after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
Reheating
When reheating, add a small splash of water or broth and warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. This helps loosen the sauce and revives the noodles’ original creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are traditional, you can use other long pastas like fettuccine or even wide rice noodles for a different twist. Just be sure to cook them al dente.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
You can easily make a vegan version by swapping butter with vegan margarine or olive oil. Make sure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly, and you’re all set to enjoy that garlicky goodness.
Is it possible to adjust the garlic intensity?
Definitely. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the cloves to 3 or 4. For garlic lovers, keep it as is or even add a little roasted garlic for sweetness and depth.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu stir-fried in a bit of garlic would all complement this recipe beautifully and create a more filling meal.
What make this Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe so special?
It’s the simplicity combined with bold flavor that makes this recipe stand out. The balance of butter, garlic, soy, and a hint of sweetness creates a mouthwatering dish that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about the Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe that makes it a quick favorite in my kitchen. It takes just a handful of ingredients, a bit of time, and a little love to create something truly special. I encourage you to try it soon and watch how it effortlessly becomes your go-to for a cozy night in or an impressive yet simple dinner. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Kenji Garlic Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
Kenji Garlic Noodles is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender spaghetti or linguine tossed in a garlicky butter sauce with a touch of soy sauce and sweetness, finished with fresh green onions for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente following the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the noodles.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the garlic butter. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle the sugar on top. Toss gently and evenly coat the noodles with the sauce mixture.
- Adjust Creaminess: If the noodles appear dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, tossing as you go, until you reach the desired creamy texture.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and toss in the sliced green onions. Serve the garlic noodles hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned.
- Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or grilled protein.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
