These 10-Minute Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles are a total lifesaver on busy weeknights! They're incredibly quick and easy to make, using just a handful of ingredients, and the flavor is absolutely amazing. We're talking perfectly cooked ramen noodles tossed in a savory, garlicky, sesame-infused sauce that will have you slurping them up in no time. This is one of those recipes that's perfect when you're short on time but still craving something delicious and satisfying.
Why You'll Love These Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
- Ready in 10 Minutes: Seriously, this dish comes together in just 10 minutes, making it faster than ordering takeout.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates a deeply savory and addictive sauce.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables.
- Budget-Friendly: Ramen noodles are a very affordable ingredient, making this a great budget-friendly meal.
Ingredients for Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
Here's what you'll need for this quick and easy meal. The full list with measurements is in the recipe card below.
Noodles and Aromatics
- Dry instant ramen noodles (Noodles)
- Sesame oil (Oil)
- Green onion (or scallion) (Vegetable)
- Garlic cloves (Aromatic)
- Chili Flakes
Sauce
- Light soy sauce (Condiment)
- Oyster sauce (Condiment) - (I used vegetarian oyster sauce)
- Cornstarch (optional) (Thickener)
- Water (Liquid)
Garnish
- White Sesame Seeds
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Variations
I love these Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles just the way they are, but here are some fun variations:
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or a fried egg for added protein.
- Add Vegetables: Stir-fry some broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the garlic.
- Make it Spicy: Add more chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Peanut Sauce: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.
- Use Different Noodles: Try this recipe with udon noodles, soba noodles, or even spaghetti.
How to Make Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
Let me walk you through how to make these incredibly easy Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles:
Toast Sesame Seeds
- First, I toast the sesame seeds in a pan over medium heat, stirring continuously (because they can burn quickly!).
- Once they turn golden brown, I transfer them to a bowl.
Prep the Sauce
- In a bowl, I whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, and cornstarch (if using) until everything is well blended. I set this aside.
Cook the Ramen
- I heat water in a pot and bring it to a boil.
- I add the ramen noodles and cook them according to the package instructions.
- Once they're done, I drain them using a colander and set them aside.
Stir Fry Ramen
- I heat the sesame oil in a pan over low heat.
- I add the white parts of the green onion and the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Then, I add the chili flakes and stir to mix.
- I pour in the prepared sauce and simmer it until it slightly thickens.
- I add the cooked ramen noodles.
- I add the cooked ramen noodles and stir gently to coat them well in the sauce.
- Add scallion greens.
- Finally, I add the scallion greens and toasted sesame seeds, give it a quick mix, and serve it hot!
Tips and Tricks for the BEST Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
Here are a few tips for making these noodles truly amazing:
- Don't Overcook the Ramen: Cook the ramen until it's just al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit in the sauce.
- Use Low Heat for the Garlic: Cooking the garlic over low heat prevents it from burning and becoming bitter.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch.
- Adjust the Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, oyster sauce for umami, or chili flakes for heat.
How to Serve
These Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles are a complete meal on their own, but here are some serving ideas:
- With a Fried Egg: Top with a fried egg for added protein and richness.
- Side of Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables.
- Add a Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Make Ahead and Storage
These noodles are best served immediately, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs about Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
- Can I use fresh ramen noodles instead of dry?
- Yes, you can use fresh ramen noodles. Adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.
- Can I make this without the oyster sauce?
- The oyster sauce adds a lot of umami flavor, but you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or more soy sauce.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free ramen noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. Make sure your oyster sauce is also gluten-free.
Enjoy these super quick and flavorful Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles! They're a perfect weeknight meal that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
Print
10-Minute Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 10
- Yield: 2 1x
- Category: Main Course, Noodles
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
These quick and easy Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles are a flavorful and satisfying meal ready in just 10 minutes! They're perfect for a busy weeknight or a quick lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Noodles:
- 2 cakes (140g) dry instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (or coarse chili powder)
- 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- Toast Sesame Seeds: Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown and fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, and cornstarch (if using) until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook Ramen: Cook the ramen noodles according to the package directions, without the seasoning packets. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over low heat. Add the white parts of the green onions and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add Chili Flakes: Add the chili flakes to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce slightly thickens (if using cornstarch).
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Add the green parts of the green onions and the toasted sesame seeds. Stir to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Ramen Noodles: Use any type of instant ramen noodles you like. Discard the seasoning packets that come with the noodles.
- Oyster Sauce: If you don't have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar.
- Cornstarch (Optional): The cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce, but it's not essential. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can omit it.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preference.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetarian oyster sauce to make this recipe vegetarian.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded carrots. You could also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
