If you’ve ever wanted to elevate your weeknight dinner with something quick, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful, the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe is your new best friend. This dish transforms humble instant ramen into a silky, buttery delight infused with fragrant garlic and a touch of fresh parsley, making each bite a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re craving a cozy snack or a satisfying meal, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a luscious bowl of noodles that feels both gourmet and homey.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of straightforward ingredients come together to create such a rich and flavorful dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the creamy butter that coats every strand of noodle to the aromatic garlic that gives this recipe its signature kick.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Using unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning perfectly, resulting in a creamy, luscious texture.
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic is essential here—it infuses the butter with a rich aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 and ½ cups chicken stock (33% less sodium): This adds a flavorful depth without overwhelming saltiness, making the broth both tasty and balanced.
- â…› teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering the delicate butter and garlic.
- â…› teaspoon black pepper powder: Adds a subtle warmth and slight kick to complement the richness.
- 2 (3 ounces) packages instant ramen noodles, flavor packets discarded: The noodles provide the perfect chewy base that soaks up all the buttery garlic goodness.
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Add Butter and Garlic
Start by adding 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the minced garlic to a cold medium-sized skillet or pan. Gently cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the garlic turns a lovely light golden color. This slow cooking infuses the butter with garlic’s deep flavor without burning it, which is crucial for the dish’s irresistible aroma.
Step 2: Add Stock and Seasonings
Next, pour in the chicken stock along with the salt and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavorful broth to come alive as it warms. The stock enriches the otherwise simple butter sauce, giving the noodles a luxurious, silky finish once cooked.
Step 3: Cook Noodles
Toss in your instant ramen noodles, but make sure to discard those flavor packets—they’re not needed here! Cook the noodles while stirring every 20 to 30 seconds so they don’t stick and so they can soak up most of the flavorful broth. This step usually takes only a few minutes, but patience is key to getting that perfect texture and flavor meld.
Step 4: Finish Dish
Once the liquid has mostly evaporated and the noodles are tender, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and sprinkle the minced parsley over the top. That final addition of butter brings an even creamier texture, while parsley provides a fresh, herbal contrast to the rich garlic-butter coating.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to get creative with garnishes! Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, while finely sliced scallions bring a mild onion bite that brightens every mouthful. A sprinkle of chili flakes can introduce a welcome hint of heat for those who like a little spice. These additions are excellent ways to personalize your Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe and add extra layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides to balance its rich flavor. A simple cucumber salad or steamed greens like bok choy or spinach add freshness and texture contrast. For a heartier meal, consider pairing the noodles with grilled chicken or seared tofu, which soak up the buttery sauce perfectly and turn the meal into a satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can be just as fun as the cooking! Serve your Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles in a beautiful bowl garnished with parsley and sesame seeds. For a lived-in, cozy vibe, place a soft-boiled egg on top or nestle in some stir-fried mushrooms. Wrapping the noodles with chopsticks or twirling them into a nest shape adds a playful touch perfect for impressing your dinner guests or brightening a solo meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since the noodles soak up the butter and broth, they may thicken upon cooling. Don’t worry—this is normal and easy to fix when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for best texture. Butter and noodles tend to separate and become mushy after thawing, which changes the dish’s delightful mouthfeel. For optimal flavor and consistency, it’s best to enjoy the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
To reheat your leftovers, gently warm the noodles in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently to bring the butter back to its silky state without overcooking the noodles. Avoid microwaving heated butter noodles straight away, as it can cause uneven texture and grease separation.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
Absolutely! Vegetable stock is a great substitute that keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing depth of flavor. Just be sure to use a good quality stock for the best taste.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic on hand?
Minced fresh garlic is ideal, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about ½ teaspoon and add it along with the stock to avoid burning. The flavor won’t be quite as vibrant, but it will still be delicious.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu can turn this noodle dish into a heartier meal. Just stir in your chosen protein after the noodles have cooked and before the final butter and parsley step.
How spicy is the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe?
As written, this recipe is mild and buttery, focusing on garlic flavor. However, you can easily add heat with chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free ramen noodles?
Yes, you can substitute your favorite type of noodles. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. This dish’s buttery garlic sauce goes well with almost any noodle choice.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a quick solo lunch or a cozy dinner with friends, these noodles bring warmth and comfort to the table with so little fuss. Go ahead and whip up a batch; your taste buds are in for a wonderfully buttery, garlicky treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles recipe transforms simple instant ramen into a rich, flavorful dish with the creamy depth of butter and the aromatic punch of garlic. Cooked on the stovetop with chicken stock and seasoned with fresh parsley, this quick 11-minute meal makes for a comforting and satisfying dinner or lunch for two.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced (or 4 medium cloves)
- 1 and ½ cups chicken stock (33% less sodium)
- â…› teaspoon salt
- â…› teaspoon black pepper powder
- 2 (3 ounces) packages instant ramen noodles, flavor packets discarded
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Add Butter and Garlic: Place 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic into a cold medium-sized skillet or pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes lightly golden, releasing its aroma.
- Add Stock and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken stock along with the salt and black pepper. Increase heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook Noodles: Add the instant ramen noodles, breaking them up if desired, and cook while stirring every 20 to 30 seconds. Continue cooking until most of the liquid has evaporated and the noodles are tender.
- Finish Dish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the fresh or dried parsley to enhance flavor and richness.
- Serve: Plate up the garlic butter ramen noodles and enjoy them hot for the best experience.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- You can add a protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent noodles from sticking and ensure even cooking.
