Okay, so there’s something about noodles that just screams comfort, right? Imagine sitting down after a long day and diving into a bowl of these spicy garlic butter noodles—it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. They’re quick to whip up, with a kick that’s just enough to make you forget about the chaos of the day, and honestly, who doesn’t need a bit of that every now and then?
Steps
- Cook the pasta of your choice until it is al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water for later use.
- In a large skillet, melt salted butter together with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add finely sliced garlic, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic softens slightly without browning.
- Stir in soy sauce and crunchy chili oil, allowing the mixture to cook for an additional two minutes to enhance the flavors. Adjust the quantity of chili oil based on your desired level of spiciness.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with some reserved pasta water and the remaining butter. Cook over low heat, stirring to coat the noodles in a glossy sauce.
- Before serving, toss the pasta with torn fresh basil, grated Parmigiano cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky salt, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed before enjoying.
Ingredients
- Malfadine noodles (or any preferred pasta)
- 5 tablespoons salted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10 fresh garlic cloves, finely sliced
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons crunchy chili oil
- 1/2 cup pasta water
- Handful of fresh basil, torn
- Parmigiano cheese
- Balsamic glaze
- Flaky salt (such as Maldon)
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for the Spicy Garlic Butter Noodles?
- Absolutely! Although Malfadine noodles are recommended because the sauce adheres well to them, you can use any pasta you prefer.
- What can I substitute for soy sauce in this recipe?
- If soy sauce is not available, you can use coconut aminos or tamari as a substitute.
- How can I add protein to the Spicy Garlic Butter Noodles?
- You can easily enhance these noodles with protein by incorporating cooked chicken, steak, shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced pork cutlets. Just cook your chosen protein separately and mix it in at the end.
- What side dishes pair well with these noodles?
- These noodles pair wonderfully with hibachi chicken, grilled lemon pepper wings, or bang bang broccoli. For more fusion flavors, try serving them with huevos con chorizo or a Tampa-style Cuban sandwich.
- Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter for this dish?
- Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just remember to add a pinch of salt for each tablespoon of butter used to maintain the flavor balance.
Tips
- Choose Your Noodles Wisely: While any pasta can work, Malfadine noodles are recommended because their shape helps the sauce adhere better, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic cloves and basil to ensure the best flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic or dried basil, as they won’t provide the same depth of taste.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Be mindful of the spiciness of your crunchy chili oil, as some varieties are hotter than others. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat preference.
- Balance with Balsamic Glaze: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of sweetness, adding a nice balance to the dish.
Equipment
- Malfadine Noodles (specific pasta type)
- Fancy Red Pepper Flakes from Flat Iron Pepper Co.
- Crunchy Chili Oil