If you are looking for a dish that combines comfort food vibes with a burst of rich, savory flavor, this Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This recipe transforms humble instant ramen into an irresistible, silky, garlicky delight that’s both effortlessly quick and endlessly satisfying. The magic comes from the luscious butter melting into fragrant garlic and chicken stock, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of noodle. It’s a perfect way to elevate a simple pantry staple into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe relies on ingredients that are not only simple but absolutely essential. Each component brings something unique to the bowl, from the creamy texture of butter to the vibrant freshness of parsley. These staples create a perfect harmony of flavors that make this dish come alive.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps develop that silky garlic sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.
- Garlic cloves (3 large, minced): The star aromatic that infuses the dish with bold, savory goodness.
- Chicken stock (1 ½ cups, 33% less sodium): Provides a flavorful broth base without overpowering saltiness, lending depth and moisture.
- Salt (â…› teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the flavors without making the noodles too salty.
- Black pepper powder (⅛ teaspoon): Offers a subtle spicy undertone to complement the garlic’s sweetness.
- Instant ramen noodles (2 packages, flavor packets discarded): The classic noodle base that cooks up quick and soaks up the garlic butter magic.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon minced) or dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color to finish the dish perfectly.
How to Make Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
Start by placing 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic into a cold skillet. Cooking this mixture over medium heat while stirring constantly is key—it gently infuses the butter with the garlic’s aroma and softens it until it turns a lovely light golden. This creates the flavorful foundation for the entire dish.
Step 2: Add Chicken Stock and Seasonings
Next, pour in the chicken stock along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Bring this fragrant broth to a gentle boil. This step is essential because the flavorful liquid will cook the noodles and give them their delicious taste. The stock also helps balance the richness of the butter.
Step 3: Cook the Ramen Noodles
Add the ramen noodles directly into the simmering broth. Stir every 20 to 30 seconds to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. As the noodles soften, most of the liquid will evaporate, allowing the butter and garlic sauce to begin clinging to each strand expertly.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Parsley
Once the noodles have absorbed most of the broth, remove the pan from the heat and stir in your remaining tablespoon of butter along with the minced parsley. This finishing touch enriches the noodles with a luxurious smoothness and a burst of fresh herbal brightness, making every bite unforgettable.
Step 5: Enjoy Hot and Fresh
Serve your Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles immediately while warm and inviting. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, but the taste is what’ll have you coming back for seconds—or thirds—without hesitation.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To give your Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe a little extra something, consider topping the dish with toasted sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. These simple garnishes boost texture and flavor without overpowering the mellow garlic butter base.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad or steamed vegetables to balance its richness. For a heartier meal, grilled chicken or pan-seared shrimp tossed in a light sauce make perfect companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the noodles in individual bowls garnished elegantly with parsley sprigs and lemon wedges for a fresh citrus pop. Alternatively, place the noodles on a large platter for sharing with friends, letting everyone add their favorite toppings, making it a communal and fun dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The noodles will absorb the butter sauce further, so expect a slightly denser texture when chilled.
Freezing
Freezing Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe is not recommended because the noodles can become mushy and the butter sauce may separate, affecting both texture and flavor negatively.
Reheating
Reheat leftover noodles gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce. Stir often until heated through to keep the noodles silky rather than sticky or dry.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth works wonderfully and makes the recipe vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to choose a broth that you enjoy for the best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe without butter?
Butter is central to the creamy, rich texture of this recipe, but you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter version. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but it will still be delicious.
Can I add vegetables to the Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe?
Definitely! Stir in quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, peas, or sliced mushrooms during the noodle cooking step for extra nutrition and color.
What type of ramen noodles should I use?
Instant ramen noodles are perfect for this recipe thanks to their quick cook time and ideal texture. Just be sure to discard the seasoning packets, as this recipe uses its own flavorful sauce.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Fresh herbs remain a great addition to brighten the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a simple dish that feels indulgent and comforting at the same time, and this Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe nails that balance perfectly. Whether you need a speedy weeknight dinner or a cozy treat to share, give this recipe a try and watch how it turns everyday noodles into a memorable meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to taste the magic of butter, garlic, and ramen all coming together in the best way possible!
Print
Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 2.2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles recipe is a quick and flavorful twist on classic instant ramen. Infused with golden sautéed garlic and rich butter, then simmered in savory chicken stock, this dish offers a comforting and delicious meal ready in just 10 minutes. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s perfect for an easy 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 and 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
- Sauté Garlic: Add 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to a cold medium-sized skillet or pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the garlic turns a light golden color, releasing its fragrant aroma.
- Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken stock, then add salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to combine the flavors and heat the broth thoroughly.
- Cook Noodles: Add the instant ramen noodles to the boiling broth. Cook while stirring every 20-30 seconds to prevent sticking, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Finish with Butter and Parsley: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the minced fresh or dried parsley to add richness and a fresh herbal note.
- Serve Hot: Plate the garlic butter ramen noodles immediately and enjoy while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Discard the seasoning packets that come with the instant ramen noodles to avoid excess sodium and unwanted flavor.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish more precisely.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference for more or less pungency.
- Fresh parsley is recommended for better flavor, but dried parsley works fine as a substitute.
