If you’re looking for a quick, easy, comforting, and flavorful dish, you have to try these Miso Garlic Noodles! This recipe combines the savory richness of miso paste with garlicky goodness to create a creamy, umami-packed sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite noodles. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this dish is a guaranteed winner.
What Are Miso Garlic Noodles?
Miso Garlic Noodles are a simple yet flavorful noodle dish featuring a sauce made with white miso paste, garlic, and soy sauce. Miso paste is a fermented soybean product that adds a savory, umami-rich depth to dishes. When combined with garlic, butter, and a few pantry staples, it transforms simple noodles into a restaurant-worthy meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy miso-garlic sauce is bursting with umami and savory depth.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like fried egg, tofu, or sautéed veggies for variety.
- Perfect Texture: The glossy sauce clings to the noodles, making every bite irresistibly delicious.
- Versatile: Works with ramen, spaghetti, or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
Ingredients
- Ramen Noodles or Spaghetti: The base of the dish; use your favorite noodles for a chewy, satisfying texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps create a creamy consistency.
- Garlic: Provides a bold, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the miso.
- White Miso Paste: The star ingredient, giving the sauce its savory, umami-packed base.
- Soy Sauce: Enhances the salty, savory flavor of the dish.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess to balance the richness of the sauce.
- Sesame Oil: A finishing touch that adds a nutty, aromatic flavor.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Reserved Pasta Water: Helps create a creamy, cohesive sauce that clings to the noodles.
- Garnishes (Green Onions, Sesame Seeds, Chili Oil, Fresh Limes): Adds freshness, crunch, spice, and brightness to the dish.
- Optional Toppings (Fried Egg, Crispy Tofu, Sautéed Veggies): Customize your noodles with extra protein or veggies.
How to Make Miso Garlic Noodles
Cook the Noodles
Boil your noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain them, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Make the Miso Garlic Sauce
In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches a creamy, glossy consistency.
Combine and Toss
Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing them in the sauce for about a minute until well coated. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the noodles.
Serve and Garnish
Transfer the noodles to a plate and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and chili oil. Add a lime wedge on the side for a bright, citrusy finish. Optionally top with a fried egg, crispy tofu, or sautéed veggies for extra flavor and texture.
Storage
These noodles are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Tips
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water—it’s key to achieving a glossy, creamy sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook just until al dente to prevent them from getting too soft when tossed in the sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Add pasta water gradually to control how thick or thin you want the sauce.
