Garlic Sesame Noodles are the ultimate quick comfort meal. They come together in just 15 minutes, use simple pantry ingredients, and deliver bold sesame flavor in every bite. Whether you enjoy them hot straight from the skillet or chilled the next day, these noodles stay delicious and satisfying.
If you love rich garlic flavor, nutty toasted sesame oil, and a creamy yet balanced sauce, Garlic Sesame Noodles will easily earn a spot in your weekly rotation. Even better, they're naturally gluten free when made with rice noodles, and you can keep them vegan with maple syrup instead of honey.
I first made Garlic Sesame Noodles on a busy weeknight when I needed something fast but still flavorful. I had brown rice noodles in the pantry and a half-used jar of tahini in the fridge. Instead of ordering takeout, I sautéed garlic, whisked together soy sauce and sesame oil, and tossed everything together. The result surprised me. The sauce coated every strand perfectly, and the garlic added depth without overpowering the dish. Since then, this recipe has become my go-to whenever I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until golden.
- Whisk together soy sauce, broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, tahini, sriracha, and ginger.
- Pour sauce into skillet with garlic and simmer 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Drain noodles and toss with sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, or peanuts if desired and serve.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love Garlic Sesame Noodles
Ready in Just 15 Minutes
Garlic Sesame Noodles cook quickly, which makes them perfect for busy evenings. While the noodles boil, you prepare the sauce. Then you combine everything in one pan and dinner is ready.
Because the sauce doesn't require blending or complicated steps, you save even more time. Simply whisk the ingredients together and let them simmer briefly with the garlic.
Additionally, the recipe uses everyday pantry staples. So, you can prepare it without a special grocery trip.
Perfect Hot or Cold
Garlic Sesame Noodles taste incredible straight from the pan. However, they also work beautifully as a chilled noodle dish.
When served cold, the flavors deepen and the sauce thickens slightly. As a result, these noodles make an excellent meal prep option. You can pack them for lunch or enjoy leftovers for days.
Since the sauce remains creamy and balanced, the noodles stay flavorful whether reheated or eaten straight from the fridge.
Key Ingredients That Make Garlic Sesame Noodles Shine
Brown Rice Noodles
Brown rice noodles keep Garlic Sesame Noodles gluten free while maintaining a satisfying chew. However, you can substitute soba, ramen, udon, or even traditional spaghetti if needed.
If you plan to serve the noodles cold, cook them slightly longer than the package suggests. Rice noodles firm up in the refrigerator, so a small adjustment keeps them tender.
Garlic and Toasted Sesame Oil
Garlic plays a starring role in Garlic Sesame Noodles. Because the sauce is not blended, mince the garlic very finely. Small pieces distribute evenly and prevent large bites of raw garlic.
Toasted sesame oil provides the signature nutty flavor. Therefore, make sure you use toasted sesame oil rather than plain sesame oil. The toasted version delivers a deeper, richer taste.
Together, garlic and sesame oil create a bold base that defines this dish.
Tahini for Creaminess
Tahini sets these Garlic Sesame Noodles apart. While many sesame noodle recipes rely solely on soy sauce and oil, tahini adds body and creaminess.
Because tahini is made from ground sesame seeds, it enhances the nutty flavor while thickening the sauce. It prevents the noodles from swimming in liquid and instead helps the sauce cling to every strand.
If you prefer, substitute peanut butter for a slightly sweeter, nuttier twist.
Soy Sauce, Vinegar, and Sweetener
Low sodium soy sauce or tamari keeps the dish balanced. Regular soy sauce can make the noodles too salty, so using low sodium gives you better control.
Rice vinegar adds brightness without overwhelming the sauce. It balances the saltiness and sweetness beautifully.
A touch of honey or maple syrup rounds out the flavors. Even though the noodles are savory, a little sweetness ties everything together.
Sriracha adds mild heat. However, you can adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the brown rice noodles and cook according to package instructions.
While the noodles cook, start preparing the sauce. Because everything comes together quickly, timing works perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté until the edges turn golden brown.
This step takes about five minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should smell fragrant and slightly sweet.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable broth, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, tahini, sriracha, and ground ginger.
Whisk thoroughly until the tahini blends completely and no clumps remain.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the garlic. Stir well and let it simmer for two to three minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly.
Drain the cooked noodles and add them directly to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more sriracha for heat or a splash of soy sauce for extra saltiness.
Garnish with sliced scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts if desired.
Ways to Turn Garlic Sesame Noodles Into a Full Meal
Add Protein
Garlic Sesame Noodles pair beautifully with grilled chicken, baked salmon, tofu, or shrimp.
If you want to keep the meal plant-based, add crispy tofu or chickpeas. The sauce complements both mild and bold proteins.
When adding extra protein, consider doubling the sauce so everything stays well coated.
Add Vegetables
You can easily transform Garlic Sesame Noodles into a vegetable-packed stir fry.
Try adding steamed broccoli, sautéed bell peppers, shredded carrots, snap peas, or spinach.
Simply cook the vegetables separately and toss them in with the noodles before serving.
Because the sauce works with so many flavors, this recipe adapts easily to what you have on hand.
Storage Tips
Store Garlic Sesame Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
You can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge. Alternatively, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.
If the noodles seem dry after refrigeration, add a small splash of water or broth before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Garlic Sesame Noodles spicy?
As written, they are mildly spiced. You can increase or decrease the sriracha to match your preference.
Can I use regular spaghetti?
Yes. While brown rice noodles keep the recipe gluten free, regular spaghetti works just as well.
What can I use instead of tahini?
Peanut butter makes a great substitute. It adds creaminess and a slightly sweeter flavor.
Why are my rice noodles sticky?
Rice noodles naturally stick more than wheat-based noodles. Rinse them lightly after cooking if needed, and toss quickly with sauce.
Can I meal prep Garlic Sesame Noodles?
Absolutely. They store well and taste great cold, making them perfect for lunches throughout the week.
Conclusion
Garlic Sesame Noodles deliver bold flavor, creamy texture, and weeknight convenience in one simple dish. With toasted sesame oil, fresh garlic, and rich tahini, the sauce clings beautifully to every strand.
Whether you serve them hot with grilled protein or chilled as a quick lunch, Garlic Sesame Noodles offer versatility and comfort without complicated steps. Once you try this 15-minute recipe, you'll keep these pantry ingredients stocked and ready for your next craving.
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