Description
Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles
This hearty and spicy garlic beef noodle dish is packed with savory flavors that bring restaurant-quality food to your table.
Ingredients:
250g egg noodles
250g ground beef
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp chili paste
1 tbsp honey
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 green onions, finely sliced
1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
Cook noodles and set aside.
Sauté garlic in a pan, then add beef and cook until browned.
Add soy sauce, chili paste, and honey to the beef, stirring to combine.
Mix noodles with the beef and sauce.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a delicious finish.
#FlavorPackedNoodles
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles every time.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse briefly with cool water to stop cooking, and toss with a few drops of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- While the noodles cook, prepare your sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, chili paste, and honey in a small bowl.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of neutral oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the browned beef. Stir well to coat the beef evenly and let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked and drained noodles to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Use tongs or two forks to toss everything together until the noodles are uniformly coated and heated through.
- Remove from heat. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with simple sides. Serve with a quick cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar for a cool contrast. For extra vegetables, stir in a handful of spinach or bok choy during the final minute of cooking the beef. A soft-boiled or fried egg on top adds rich, creamy texture.
How-to Summary
Boil noodles. Whisk sauce ingredients. Sauté garlic, then brown beef. Combine sauce with beef, simmer, then toss with noodles. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground chicken, turkey, pork, or even plant-based crumbles work well. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How can I make this less spicy? Reduce the chili paste to 1/2 tablespoon or use a milder chili sauce like sriracha. You can also add a tablespoon of oyster sauce for depth without as much heat.
What noodles can I substitute? Udon, ramen, rice noodles, or even spaghetti are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times based on the noodle type.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes. Finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the garlic before adding the beef for a more substantial dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant.
- Using wet noodles: Ensure noodles are well-drained before adding to the beef, or the sauce will become watery.
- Not browning the beef properly: Let the beef sear and develop color for maximum flavor instead of steaming it.
- Skipping the garnish: The green onions and sesame seeds add crucial fresh flavor and texture. Don’t omit them.
Conclusion
This Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles recipe proves that a deeply flavorful, satisfying meal doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes, it’s a versatile dish you’ll return to again and again. Mastering the simple techniques outlined here—from properly browning the beef to building the sauce—ensures restaurant-quality results right from your own stove. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the delicious, comforting results.