Hello, I’m Sam.
Since retiring, I’ve come to appreciate meals that feel comforting without being complicated. These chili garlic noodles are one of my reliable favorites, fast, flavorful, and full of that warm, savory kick that wakes up a quiet evening. The crispy garlic oil adds just enough crunch to make every bite special. If you enjoy cozy, easy cooking, you might also like my Cheesy Kielbasa Potato Skillet or Creamy Cheddar Potato Chowder, both calm, satisfying meals that bring steady comfort to the table.
Why This Recipe Works
- Ready in 20 minutes , simple pantry ingredients
- Crispy garlic oil adds crunch and aroma
- Flexible with any noodles you have on hand
- Great for weeknights, lunches, or leftovers
- Easy to scale for family or meal prep
- Naturally vegetarian (and vegan-friendly!)
Ingredient Breakdown
Noodles:
Use any kind, ramen, spaghetti, or rice noodles all work. Just cook until tender but not mushy.
Garlic:
The heart of this dish. Thinly sliced garlic gets fried slowly until crisp and golden, creating both the flavor and the oil that coats everything.
Chili Flakes or Chili Crisp:
Adds warmth and a touch of spice. Adjust to your comfort level.
Soy Sauce:
Brings depth and saltiness. You can use low-sodium for better balance.
Sesame Oil:
Gives that classic nutty aroma and smooth finish.
Sugar:
A small pinch helps round out the spicy-savory balance.
Scallions or Green Onions:
Add brightness and color to each bite.
Optional Add-ins:
Shredded carrots, baby spinach, or tofu cubes can make it heartier.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Cook the Noodles
Boil noodles according to package directions until just tender. Drain and toss lightly with a little oil to prevent sticking. - Make the Crispy Garlic Oil
In a small pan, add oil and sliced garlic. Heat on low until garlic turns golden and crisp, about 3–5 minutes. Remove the garlic chips and set aside. Keep the infused oil. - Build the Sauce
To the same oil, add soy sauce, chili flakes (or chili crisp), sesame oil, and a small pinch of sugar. Stir gently until fragrant, about 30 seconds. - Combine
Add noodles directly to the pan and toss until fully coated. - Garnish and Serve
Top with crispy garlic chips and chopped scallions. Add a drizzle of extra chili oil for spice lovers.
Tips & Helpful Notes
- Keep heat low when frying garlic, burnt garlic turns bitter fast.
- Adjust spice easily by using less chili crisp or mixing mild and hot.
- For extra umami: Add a splash of rice vinegar or oyster sauce.
- To make it protein-rich: Add eggs, tofu, or leftover chicken.
- Leftovers tip: Reheat with a small splash of hot water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles.
Serving Suggestions
These noodles pair beautifully with other cozy SoolFood favorites:
- Cheesy Chicken Potato Casserole – a hearty, creamy balance to the spice.
- Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies – a calm, sweet finish after a bold meal.
- Creamy Cheddar Potato Chowder – a cozy soup pairing for cooler nights.
Storage & Reheating
Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce.
Crispy garlic chips can be stored separately in a jar at room temperature for up to a week.
FAQs
1. Can I use chili oil instead of making my own?
Yes, store-bought chili oil works great. Just skip the frying step and drizzle directly.
2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use rice noodles and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
3. How spicy is this recipe?
Moderate heat, but you can easily adjust the chili flakes to taste.
4. What oil works best?
Neutral oils like canola or avocado oil let the garlic and chili shine.
Chili Garlic Noodles with Crispy Garlic Oil – Simple, Bold, and Comforting
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Chili garlic noodles tossed in homemade crispy garlic oil, quick, cozy, and full of bold flavor.
Ingredients
8 oz noodles (ramen, spaghetti, or rice noodles)
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/4 cup oil (canola or avocado)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp chili flakes or chili crisp
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp sugar
2 scallions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook noodles according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a small pan over low heat, add garlic slices, and fry until golden and crisp.
3. Remove garlic chips and set aside.
4. To the same oil, add soy sauce, chili flakes, sesame oil, and sugar; stir gently.
5. Add noodles to the pan and toss until fully coated.
6. Serve topped with crispy garlic and scallions.
Notes
Keep heat low while frying garlic to avoid burning.
Adjust chili flakes for desired spice level.
Store leftovers up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Conclusion
These Chili Garlic Noodles are everything comfort food should be, warm, quick, and full of life. The simple combination of garlic, chili, and soy turns plain noodles into something deeply satisfying. With each bite coated in aromatic oil and crisp golden garlic, it’s the kind of meal that feels both energizing and calm. A little heat, a lot of flavor, and no stress, just how I like to cook.