Brown Butter Spicy Garlic Noodles
Buttered Noodles are such a staple, and so satisfying. I feel like I ate many variations of the dish as a child, but my Aunt Libby certainly made the best ones. They were so simple, but I always felt the love that went into them.
These Brown Butter Spicy Garlic Noodles are a hat-tip to all of those childhood memories. They get lots of butter and parmesan cheese and are layered with notes of red pepper flakes, soy sauce, charred green onions and some chili oil. This dish makes a perfect snack or even dinner! Enjoy!
Why You'll Love It
Ready in about 20 minutes
Uses mostly pantry staples
Rich brown butter flavor
Just enough heat without being overwhelming
Perfect on its own or alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables
Ingredients
12 ounces Pappardelle Pasta
3 tablespoons, butter
1.5 tablespoon soy sauce
½ - 1 tablespoon chili oil
2 cloves minced garlic
6 scallions, diced, separated the whites and greens
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Considerations
Watch the butter carefully: Brown butter can become burnt butter quickly. Once the specks turn golden brown and smell nutty, it’s ready.
Salt your pasta water aggressively: This is a simple recipe, which means every ingredient matters.
Fresh garlic is worth it: Since garlic is one of the main flavors, fresh cloves make a noticeable difference.
Reserve a little pasta water: If the noodles seem dry, a splash of pasta water helps create a silky sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Alongside grilled shrimp
With roasted broccoli
Topped with a fried egg
Served with crispy chicken cutlets
As a quick late-night dinner
Variations
Extra Spicy: Double the chili oil and red pepper flakes.
Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.
Vegetable Version: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
Citrus Finish: A squeeze of lemon brightens the richness of the brown butter.
Instructions
Step One: Start by cooking your pasta. Bring water to a rapid boil and then season the water generously with salt. Add pasta into the water and cook according to instructions.
Step Two: While the pasta is cooking, begin making the spicy garlic sauce. Over medium to low heat, melt three tablespoons of butter. We’re looking to brown the butter to bring out more earthy, nutty notes. When the butter melts, let it sit over the heat and you’ll begin to see brown specks form in the butter. The butter will be browned, when it all turns brown.
Step Three: When the butter is browned, add in half of your diced scallions. Let them soften for a few minutes.
Step Four: Once the scallions are softened, add in 1 teaspoon chili oil, 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Give it a few stirs, and let all of the ingredients hand out over low heat.
Step Five: When the pasta is done, drain it, and then add it directly into the pan. Sprinkle over 1/4 cup parmesan cheese. Mix all ingredients together and then serve. Garnish with the remaining green onion. Enjoy!
