If you’re craving a dish that sings with bold garlic flavor and silky noodles that soak up every bit of savory goodness, you’re absolutely going to love this Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together in just 15 minutes, delivering vibrant, restaurant-quality noodles with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner hero or a weekend entertainer, this recipe balances simplicity with a depth of flavor that’ll make you want to double the batch every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in taste and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, from the rich umami of oyster sauce to the fresh bite of scallions, creating layers of flavor while the Instant Pot takes care of perfectly cooking those noodles.
- 2 tablespoons Oil or Butter: Using avocado oil adds a subtle, buttery richness and helps sauté the garlic evenly.
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil: This oil adds that unmistakable toasty aroma which elevates the noodle dish instantly.
- 8 ounces Thin Spaghetti or Canton Noodles: These noodles cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully.
- 8-10 cloves Garlic, finely diced or minced: The star ingredient that delivers that bold, fragrant punch.
- 2 Scallions or Green Onion, white and green parts separated and chopped: Whites add savory depth in cooking; greens provide fresh, vibrant garnishing.
- 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce: Brings salty umami that makes the noodles deeply flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (vegan option if needed): Adds a luscious, slightly sweet, and savory boost.
- 1/2–1 tablespoon Red Chili Sauce (I used Sambal Oelek): Adds just the right kick of heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar: Balances the salty and spicy elements with a subtle sweetness.
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth or Water: The cooking liquid that softens noodles and carries all the flavors.
- Salt to taste: The final touch to bring everything into perfect harmony.
How to Make Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Instant Pot
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode—this will let you build the flavor base right in the pot without extra pans to clean later. Heating the pot adequately helps the oils infuse with garlic and scallions perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Scallions
Add the avocado oil and toasted sesame oil to the Instant Pot. Once hot, toss in finely minced garlic along with the white parts of the scallions. Sauté them just until fragrant and lightly golden, making sure the garlic doesn’t brown too much to avoid bitterness. This step unlocks that mouthwatering aroma that makes this Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Prepare and Layer the Noodles
Break the spaghetti in half so they fit nicely inside the Instant Pot. Place the noodles in a zigzag pattern to ensure they’re all submerged later and cook evenly. Layer on the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili sauce, and brown sugar on top—this way, each strand soaks in the layered flavors while cooking.
Step 4: Add Broth and Pressure Cook
Pour vegetable broth or water to cover the noodles. It’s important the noodles are just submerged so they cook through without sticking or drying out. Seal your Instant Pot and pressure cook for 5 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release, then stir the noodles gently and let them rest for 2 minutes to finish softening in the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Toss
After resting, check the seasoning and add salt if needed. Give the noodles a good stir to evenly coat them in the garlicky sauce and combine all the rich flavors developed during cooking. This final step ensures each bite bursts with that perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet tastes.
How to Serve Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the green parts of scallions sprinkled on top—they add a fresh, crisp element and a lovely pop of color. Toasted sesame seeds also make a fantastic finishing touch, lending extra texture and that signature nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with garlic noodles.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best alongside simple sides, such as a crisp cucumber salad or steamed bok choy to bring contrast and freshness. For a more substantial meal, grilled chicken or tofu are great options that complement the rich flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these noodles in individual bowls with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a drizzle of extra chili sauce for guests who love some heat. You can also toss in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to add texture and layers of flavor that still align beautifully with the Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe’s bold profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover garlic noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will continue to soak up the sauce, so they often taste even better the next day once the flavors have melded together.
Freezing
You can freeze the noodles, although it’s best to do so without garnishes. Portion them out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and refresh the garlicky flavors. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti or Canton noodles work best for this recipe, you can experiment with linguine, rice noodles, or even egg noodles. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.
Is this Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe vegan?
Yes, it can be easily made vegan by substituting oyster sauce with a vegan alternative such as mushroom sauce or additional soy sauce. Everything else is plant-based, making it a perfect vegan comfort food option.
How spicy is the chili sauce in this recipe?
The chili sauce adds a mild to moderate kick that enhances flavor without overpowering the noodles. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount or omit it. For more spice, feel free to add extra or serve with chili flakes on the side.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic noodles in a large skillet instead. Sauté garlic and scallions, boil the noodles separately, then toss everything with the sauces and broth on medium heat until fully combined.
What can I add to make it a full meal?
Adding proteins like grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu pairs wonderfully with the noodles. You could also stir in some sautéed veggies such as bell peppers and snap peas for a colorful and balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe will become your go-to when craving something quick, flavorful, and a little bit special. It’s super simple to make, yet feels indulgent and fresh every time. Give it a try soon and watch it become an instant favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Instant Pot Garlic Noodles recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy tender noodles bathed in a savory, garlicky sauce. With a harmonious blend of soy, oyster, and chili sauces, it’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a comforting, umami-rich meal.
Ingredients
Oils and Sauces
- 2 tablespoon Oil or Butter (I used avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil
- 2 tablespoon Light Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (use vegan if needed)
- 1/2–1 tablespoon Red Chili Sauce (I used Sambal Oelek)
Noodles & Broth
- 8 ounces Thin Spaghetti or Canton Noodles
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth or Water
Aromatics & Seasonings
- 8–10 cloves Garlic, finely diced or minced
- 2 Scallion or Green onion, white and green parts separated, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the Instant Pot: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode to prepare it for cooking.
- Sauté Garlic and Scallion Whites: Add the oil and toasted sesame oil to the pot, then sauté the finely diced garlic and the white parts of the scallions until fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aromatic base.
- Prepare the Noodles: Break the spaghetti in half and arrange them in a zigzag pattern inside the Instant Pot to ensure even cooking and good liquid coverage.
- Add Sauces and Sugar: Top the noodles with soy sauce, oyster sauce, red chili sauce, and brown sugar to build the flavorful sauce.
- Add Broth and Cook: Pour in the vegetable broth or water, making sure the noodles are fully submerged. Close the lid and pressure cook for 5 minutes.
- Release Pressure and Rest: Quick release the pressure and open the lid. Stir the noodles gently and allow them to rest for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste and add salt if needed. Garnish with the green parts of the scallions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the noodles for any other thin noodles like ramen or rice noodles for variation.
- Use vegan oyster sauce if you prefer a plant-based version.
- Adjust the amount of chili sauce depending on your heat preference.
- For a richer flavor, butter can be used instead of oil.
- Pressure cooking ensures noodles cook evenly and quickly without sticking.
