Oodles of Noodles is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a variety of noodles combined with a savory sauce and fresh ingredients. This dish is perfect for anyone craving a comforting, hearty meal, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors in every bite. Whether you prefer a rich, creamy sauce or a simple stir-fry, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your tastes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Noodles:
- 400g (14 oz) mixed noodles (spaghetti, fettuccine, or any favorite variety)
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (for a creamy option) or 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth (for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce (for stir-fry version)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 tbsp (15ml) sesame oil (optional, for stir-fry)
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for creamy version)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional for stir-fry version)
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mixed noodles and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce:
- For the creamy version: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Add black pepper and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Toss the cooked noodles in the creamy sauce until well-coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
- For the stir-fry version: In a separate pan or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the soy sauce and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked noodles, tossing them in the sauce until evenly coated. Add chili flakes for heat, if desired. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh herbs.
- For the creamy version: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Serve:
- Plate the noodles and enjoy immediately, either creamy or stir-fried. This dish is versatile, allowing you to adjust the flavor profile based on your preferences!
Oodles of Noodles Tips:
- Perfect Pasta Cook Time: Always cook noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming soggy or mushy when tossed with sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Toss Immediately: Coat your noodles in the sauce as soon as they’re drained to absorb the flavors.
- Experiment with Sauces: Noodles can pair with a variety of sauces—tomato-based, cream-based, or even simple olive oil and garlic.
- Add Protein or Veggies: Boost your noodle dishes by adding chicken, shrimp, tofu, or vegetables for more nutrition and flavor.
Oodles of Noodles Variations:
- Classic Spaghetti Bolognese: Traditional ground beef or turkey with a rich tomato sauce.
- Chili Noodles: Add spicy chili sauce or ground meat for a savory, spicy dish.
- Curry Noodles: Stir-fry noodles with curry paste, coconut milk, and vegetables for an aromatic dish.
- Peanut Noodles: Toss noodles in a creamy peanut butter sauce for a nutty and tangy flavor.
- Stir-Fry Noodles: Stir-fry with soy sauce, garlic, and a variety of fresh vegetables.
- Pesto Noodles: Use basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for a fresh, aromatic dish.
- Ramen Noodles: Add a savory broth, boiled egg, and toppings like mushrooms, spinach, or tofu.
- Soba Noodles: Pair with a soy-based dipping sauce or serve in a chilled salad for a refreshing dish.
- Lo Mein: A Chinese-inspired noodle dish with a flavorful soy sauce-based stir-fry.
- Mac and Cheese: Combine elbow pasta with a rich cheese sauce for a creamy comfort dish.
This Oodles of Noodles Recipe is simple, customizable, and the perfect comfort food for any noodle lover. Whether you go creamy or stir-fried, it’s a quick, satisfying dish for any occasion!