Elevate your weeknight meals with these Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles—a quick, flavorful dish packed with plant-based protein and heart-healthy fats from sesame oil.
Fiber-rich noodles and aromatic garlic create a satisfying, wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare in under 10 minutes.
Perfect for busy days, this recipe is simple, nourishing, and ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
10-Minute Quick & Flavorful Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
Equipment
- 1 large pot for boiling noodles
- 1 Skillet or frying pan
- 1 spoon or spatula for stirring
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 2 packages 3 oz each instant ramen noodles, seasoning discarded
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3½ tablespoons garlic minced
- 3½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons shallot ginger chili oil optional, see notes
- 3 tablespoons green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon roasted sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons reserved ramen cooking water
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the instant ramen noodles. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, typically 3–4 minutes. One minute before the noodles reach al dente (slightly firm to the bite), reserve 2 tablespoons of the hot cooking water for later use in the sauce. Then, drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander and set them aside, ensuring they do not stick together.
- Melt the Butter and Heat Sesame Oil: Place a medium-sized skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the pan. Allow the butter to melt completely and mix gently with the sesame oil until it forms a fragrant, golden base. This combination will give the noodles a rich, nutty flavor and silky texture.
- Sauté the Garlic: Once the butter has melted, add 3½ tablespoons of minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly to evenly distribute the garlic and prevent it from burning. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be vigilant, as garlic can quickly brown and develop a bitter taste if left unattended. Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle sizzle.
- Create the Sauce Base: Remove the skillet from the heat briefly to safely add the reserved ramen cooking water, 2 tablespoons, followed by 3½ tablespoons of soy sauce and 3 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce becomes slightly glossy. This ensures a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that will coat the noodles beautifully.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the cooked and drained ramen noodles to the sauce. Gently toss the noodles in the sauce using a spatula or tongs, making sure each strand is coated evenly with the garlic-sesame mixture. Cook for approximately 1 minute to allow the noodles to absorb the flavors.
- Add Shallot Ginger Chili Oil: To elevate the flavor profile, drizzle 3 teaspoons of shallot ginger chili oil over the noodles. Stir well to combine. This optional step adds a gentle heat and aromatic depth that perfectly complements the sesame and garlic flavors.
- Garnish with Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Turn off the heat and sprinkle 3 tablespoons of chopped green onions and 1 teaspoon of roasted sesame seeds over the noodles. Toss gently one more time to distribute the garnishes evenly. The green onions provide freshness and a subtle crunch, while the sesame seeds enhance nuttiness and texture.
- Plate and Serve Immediately: Transfer the noodles to serving bowls while still hot. For an extra touch, add more chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top as desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the noodles at their peak flavor and texture. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a soft-boiled egg, or your favorite protein for a more substantial meal.
Notes
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor; pre-minced garlic from jars may reduce aroma and depth. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic will taste bitter.
- Noodles: Instant ramen is best, but you can substitute whole wheat or brown rice noodles for a fiber-rich, healthier alternative. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce gives a balanced saltiness, while a dash of dark soy sauce can deepen the color and umami flavor. Taste and adjust based on preference.
- Shallot Ginger Chili Oil: Optional, but it adds a sophisticated kick. If unavailable, a pinch of red pepper flakes or sesame chili oil works well.
- Butter and Sesame Oil: Combining both ensures richness from the butter and nutty aroma from the sesame oil, creating a well-rounded flavor base.
Chef’s Secrets: Mastering Flavorful Ramen
To elevate this simple dish to restaurant-quality flavor, layering ingredients thoughtfully is key.
Sauté garlic gently to release its natural oils without burning. Reserve the noodle water—it’s rich in starch and helps the sauce cling perfectly to the noodles.
When mixing sauces, briefly remove the pan from heat to dissolve sugar evenly, then return to warm the noodles.
For an extra touch, finish with a small drizzle of toasted sesame oil just before serving—it adds a nutty aroma that makes the dish irresistible.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings And Ideas
These Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles shine as a quick meal on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with protein-rich sides or vegetables.
Add soft-boiled eggs, sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
For extra crunch and freshness, toss in shredded cabbage, bell peppers, or snap peas.
A light drizzle of soy sauce or chili oil at the table allows guests to customize flavor intensity to taste.
Storage Tips: Keep Noodles Fresh Longer
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles and prevent them from sticking.
Avoid freezing if possible, as instant noodles can become mushy after thawing.
For best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to prepare the noodles fresh when possible, especially if you want a tender, springy bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other noodles instead of instant ramen?
Absolutely! Whole wheat, brown rice, or soba noodles work well. Just adjust cooking times to ensure noodles are al dente.
2. Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
Yes, it is vegetarian if you use plant-based butter. To make it fully vegan, ensure the chili oil and butter are plant-based.
3. How can I make this less salty?
Reduce the soy sauce slightly or use a low-sodium variety. Adjust the seasoning after combining noodles with sauce to taste.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can be sautéed in the same skillet for added nutrition and crunch.
5. What is the best way to reheat leftover noodles?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or reserved ramen water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating for best texture.
