If you love quick meals that don’t skimp on flavor, the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe is going to become your new go-to comfort dish. This recipe takes simple pantry staples like instant ramen and elevates them with the rich, fragrant combination of garlic and butter, creating a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of noodle. Whether you need a speedy lunch or a cozy dinner fix, these Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles deliver satisfying taste with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture, all while keeping things straightforward and fuss-free. Each component is easy to find and works together to transform basic ramen into something truly crave-worthy.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel, plus helps infuse the garlic flavor.
- Fresh garlic cloves (3 large, minced): Brings bold, aromatic depth that makes the dish irresistible.
- Chicken stock (1 ½ cups, reduced sodium): Provides savory moisture and a gentle broth base to cook the noodles.
- Salt (â…› teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper powder (â…› teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and slight kick.
- Instant ramen noodles (2 packages, flavor packets discarded): Quick-cooking noodles that soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon minced) or dried parsley (1 teaspoon): A splash of freshness and color to brighten the dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Add Butter and Garlic
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a cold, medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and stir constantly to ensure it cooks evenly without burning. Cook until the garlic becomes lightly golden and fragrant – this is when its sweetness really shines through.
Step 2: Add Stock and Seasonings
Next, pour in the chicken stock along with the salt and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil so the flavors start to meld together. This liquid base will both cook the noodles and infuse them with savory goodness.
Step 3: Cook Noodles
Add the instant ramen noodles straight into the bubbling stock. Stir frequently, about every 20 to 30 seconds, to separate the noodles and prevent sticking. Cook until most of the liquid evaporates, leaving behind a glossy, flavorful coating on the noodles.
Step 4: Finish Dish
Once the noodles have absorbed all that garlicky broth, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the parsley. This final touch adds extra silkiness and a fresh herbal note that ties the dish together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles piping hot, fresh from the pan. The noodles will be tender, buttery, and bursting with garlicky aroma that invites you to dig right in.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a handful of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. Thinly sliced scallions or a dash of chili flakes add vibrant color and a burst of extra flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
Lighten the meal with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette, or pair these noodles with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. For something heartier, grilled chicken or pan-seared tofu make excellent protein boosters that complement the buttery noodles beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe in a rustic bowl garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges to brighten each bite. Alternatively, pile the noodles next to a soft boiled egg or topped with a drizzle of soy sauce and a scattering of nori strips for an Asian-inspired twist that feels both comforting and sophisticated.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The noodles may absorb more sauce and thicken, so keep that in mind when reheating.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well because the delicate butter-garlic sauce can separate and the noodles tend to become mushy. If you want to prep in advance, store the cooked noodles and sauce separately and combine just before serving.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce and restore a silky texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and avoid overheating, which can dull the vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth works well and keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly. Just choose a good-quality broth with rich flavors for the best result.
Can I add protein to the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe?
Yes, cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu are fantastic additions that turn this dish into a more rounded meal without overpowering the delicate garlic butter flavor.
Is it necessary to discard the flavor packets from the instant ramen?
For this recipe, yes. The flavor packets often contain a lot of salt and artificial spices that can clash with the fresh garlic butter base. Using plain noodles allows the buttery sauce to shine.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can! Just swap the instant ramen for your favorite gluten-free noodles, like rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. The cooking times might vary slightly.
How can I make the recipe spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil during cooking or as a garnish will give your Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles an exciting kick without compromising their buttery richness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about a bowl of Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles, and this recipe captures that joy perfectly with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. I warmly encourage you to try the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe—it’s quick, delicious, and bound to become a favorite for busy nights and lazy weekends alike. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for that buttery, garlicky goodness!
Print
Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles recipe is a quick and flavorful twist on traditional instant ramen. Sautéed garlic in butter infuses the broth with rich aroma, while chicken stock adds depth to the dish. Fresh parsley brightens the flavors, creating a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a fast lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Butter and Garlic
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced (or use 4 medium)
Broth and Seasoning
- 1 ½ cups chicken stock (33% less sodium)
- â…› teaspoon salt
- â…› teaspoon black pepper powder
Noodles and Garnish
- 2 (3 ounces) packages instant ramen noodles, flavor packets discarded
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: Add 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic to a cold medium-sized skillet or pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the garlic is lightly golden, which releases its fragrant aroma without burning.
- Add Stock and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken stock along with salt and black pepper. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the instant ramen noodles to the simmering broth. Stir every 20-30 seconds so the noodles cook evenly and most of the liquid evaporates, resulting in perfectly coated noodles.
- Finish the Dish: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter along with fresh or dried parsley. This step adds a creamy texture and fresh herbaceous brightness.
- Serve Hot: Transfer to bowls and enjoy immediately while the garlic butter flavor is at its peak and the noodles are tender.
Notes
- For best garlic flavor, ensure it turns lightly golden but not brown to avoid bitterness.
- You may use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian variation.
- Add cooked protein like chicken or tofu for a more filling meal.
- If you prefer spicier noodles, add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when adding the stock.
- Use fresh parsley for brighter flavor, though dried parsley works well as a substitute.
