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Honey Garlic Noodles

Honey Garlic Noodles - recipe card
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Sticky, sweet, and savory noodles tossed in a glossy honey garlic sauce with a punch of fresh garlic and a hint of soy. This quick stir-fry delivers tender spaghetti coated in a rich, caramelized glaze, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) dried spaghetti
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
  • 3 tbsp (45 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced (white and light green parts separated)
  • 1 tbsp (9 g) sesame seeds, toasted
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt (for pasta water)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (1 tbsp kosher salt per 4 quarts) to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 9–10 minutes according to package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; then drain the pasta well and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the honey garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until smooth. This slight dilution helps the sauce coat evenly without becoming overly thick.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large 12-inch nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Add the green onion whites and minced garlic; cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned— burnt garlic will turn bitter.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Swirl the pan as the butter melts; it should foam and then subside once the water content evaporates. This butter basting adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor.
  5. Immediately pour the honey-soy mixture into the pan, stirring to combine with the butter and garlic. Let the sauce bubble steadily over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. If it looks too thin at first, be patient—the reduction is quick.
  6. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss vigorously with tongs or two forks to coat every strand. The residual heat will further thicken the sauce; if the noodles seem dry, add the remaining reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until glossy and slick.
  7. Sprinkle the sesame seeds and red pepper flakes (if using) over the noodles and toss again to distribute evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of kosher salt or a few dashes of soy sauce if needed—the saltiness should balance the honey sweetness.
  8. Remove the pan from heat. Transfer the noodles to a serving platter or divide among four warmed bowls. Garnish with the sliced green onion tops for a fresh, mild onion finish and a pop of color.
  9. Serve immediately while the noodles are hot and the sauce is still fluid. The dish does not benefit from resting; the sauce will absorb and the noodles will stiffen as they cool.
  10. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave on high for 1–2 minutes with a damp paper towel over the bowl to restore moisture, or reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a splash of water until steaming.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave on high (100% power) for 1–2 minutes, covering the bowl with a damp paper towel to create steam. Alternatively, reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of water, tossing until hot and glossy. Freezing is not recommended because the sauce separates and noodles become mushy upon thawing.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic noodles, honey garlic sauce, Asian noodles, weeknight dinner, stir fry noodles, garlic noodles, honey soy noodles, easy noodle recipe, spaghetti noodles, quick dinner

Find it online: https://copycatkitchenco.com/honey-garlic-noodles/