Name: Kenji Garlic Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp sugar; 2 green onions, sliced thinly

Print Recipe

Kenji Garlic Noodles are a symphony of flavor that dances on your taste buds, with each noodle twirling in a melodious blend of garlic, soy sauce, and butter. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you sauté fresh garlic until it turns golden and fragrant, bringing everyone in the house to the kitchen like moths to a flame. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that will have you reminiscing about family dinners and celebrations where laughter and good food intertwined seamlessly.

As you dig into this bowl of Kenji Garlic Noodles, each bite transports you back to those carefree days filled with warmth and happiness. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, these noodles promise not only to satisfy your cravings but also to create memorable moments. So, get ready for an adventure in flavor that delivers all the comfort and joy of home cooking!

Why You'll Love This Kenji Garlic Noodles

This incredible Kenji Garlic Noodles transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Kenji Garlic Noodles:

Spaghetti or Linguine: Opt for fresh pasta if you can find it; otherwise, regular dried pasta works just fine.
Fresh Garlic: Use as much as you dare; this dish is all about that bold garlic flavor!
Unsalted Butter: A generous amount adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best for controlling saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Sugar: Just a pinch balances out the savory notes and enhances the overall flavor.
Green Onions: Sliced thinly for garnish; they add freshness and a pop of color to your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Kenji Garlic Noodles:

Step 1: Boil Your Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining the noodles.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While your pasta is cooking, melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute—making sure it doesn’t burn! Your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the garlic butter mixture. Pour in soy sauce and sprinkle sugar over everything, tossing gently to ensure every noodle is coated in that luxurious buttery goodness.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency

If your noodles seem dry (which they shouldn’t), gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach desired creaminess. The starch from the water helps create a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to each strand.

Step 5: Garnish

Remove from heat and toss in sliced green onions for freshness. Give everything one last gentle mix—your Kenji Garlic Noodles are now ready for showtime!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your delicious creation onto plates or serve family-style in a big bowl! Drizzle with extra soy sauce if desired, then watch as everyone digs in happily.

Enjoying these Kenji Garlic Noodles doesn’t just mean filling your stomach; it’s about savoring every moment spent around the table with loved ones. So grab those forks because deliciousness awaits!

You Must Know About Kenji Garlic Noodles

This showstopping Kenji Garlic Noodles delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with Kenji Garlic Noodles, start by boiling your pasta first. As it cooks, prepare the garlic sauce in a hot pan, allowing those aromatic notes to fill your kitchen. Combine everything at the end for a seamless dish.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Kenji Garlic Noodles by swapping out vegetables or proteins! Add shrimp or tofu for protein, toss in some chili flakes for heat, or even throw in some fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Kenji Garlic Noodles, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist while warming on the stovetop.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Kenji Garlic Noodles

This professional-quality Kenji Garlic Noodles relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about that one dinner party where my friends devoured every last noodle of my Kenji Garlic Noodles. Their expressions of pure joy were priceless—and I might’ve even received a marriage proposal from my pasta-loving buddy!

FAQs

What is Kenji Garlic Noodles?

Kenji Garlic Noodles are a delectable dish inspired by the famous recipes from renowned chef J. Kenji López-Alt. This recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients, including garlic, butter, soy sauce, and noodles, creating a savory and satisfying meal. The dish showcases an umami-rich taste that brings comfort and delight to any dining experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for gatherings, Kenji Garlic Noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with proteins like chicken or shrimp.

How do I make Kenji Garlic Noodles?

To make Kenji Garlic Noodles, start by cooking your favorite noodles according to package instructions. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss in the cooked noodles along with soy sauce and any additional seasonings you love, such as chili flakes or sesame oil. Stir until well combined, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the garlic mixture. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Can I customize Kenji Garlic Noodles?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Kenji Garlic Noodles is their adaptability. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. For protein lovers, consider incorporating grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a heartier meal. Experimenting with different sauces or spices also allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences while keeping its essence intact.

What dishes pair well with Kenji Garlic Noodles?

Kenji Garlic Noodles are incredibly versatile and pair well with various dishes. For a complete Asian-inspired meal, serve them alongside teriyaki chicken or sweet and sour shrimp. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh cucumber salad or miso soup complements the noodles beautifully. Additionally, grilled vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious side that enhances this delightful dish’s flavors without overpowering them.

Conclusion

In summary, Kenji Garlic Noodles are a deliciously simple dish that anyone can prepare at home. With their rich flavor profile and adaptability, they offer an excellent base for customization with various proteins and vegetables. Whether you serve them on weeknights or special occasions, these noodles promise satisfaction in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you may find it becomes a new family favorite!