If you are a garlic lover who craves bold, savory flavors with a quick and easy twist, this Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine perfectly tender noodles drenched in a luscious garlic-soy sauce with a lightly spicy kick, all whipped up in just 15 minutes. These noodles are a comforting hug on a fork and a versatile dish that feels special yet effortless. Whether you’re rushing a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe brings restaurant-worthy taste without the fuss, showing off the Instant Pot’s magic in making garlic noodles that truly sing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe shines because of its simple, well-balanced ingredients that each play a crucial role. The oils build a fragrant base, the sauces bring umami depth, and the fresh garlic and scallions add crisp brightness and aroma. Every element here is essential to achieving that perfectly savory, slightly spicy, and irresistibly silky noodle dish.
- 2 tablespoons Oil or Butter: Provides the rich, smooth texture and helps sauté garlic evenly; I used avocado oil for a mild flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty depth to complement the soy and garlic flavors wonderfully.
- 8 ounces Thin Spaghetti or Canton Noodles: These noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, becoming tender yet perfectly springy.
- 8-10 cloves Garlic, finely diced or minced: The star of the dish, delivering an intense and aromatic garlic punch.
- 2 Scallions or Green Onions, white and green parts separated and chopped: White parts for cooking to infuse flavor, green parts for fresh garnish and crunch.
- 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce: Brings savory saltiness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (vegan if needed): Adds a luscious, slightly sweet umami boost foundational to authentic garlic noodles.
- 1/2-1 tablespoon Red Chili Sauce (I used Sambal Oelek): Gives a subtle heat layer that can be adjusted to your spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar: Balances the salt and spice with a touch of sweetness, creating harmony in the sauce.
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth or Water: Ensures the noodles cook perfectly and absorb all the lovely flavors.
- Salt to taste: For final seasoning adjustments if needed.
How to Make Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Instant Pot
Begin by selecting the Saute mode on your Instant Pot. This setting is perfect for waking up the flavors. Pour in your regular oil along with the toasted sesame oil, which will add an irresistible aroma and richness. Once hot, toss in your finely diced garlic and the white parts of your scallions. Let them cook until they release that intoxicating fragrance that fills your kitchen with anticipation.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
Break your thin spaghetti noodles in half—this makes them fit more evenly inside the Instant Pot. Carefully arrange them in a zigzag pattern atop the garlic and scallions so they cook evenly without clumping. This little trick helps every strand absorb the sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Add Sauces and Seasonings
Drizzle your soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili sauce, and sprinkle the brown sugar straight over the noodles. These combine to create a perfect symphony of salty, sweet, and spicy flavors right on top of the noodles, ready to soak in during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Pour in the vegetable broth or water enough to cover the noodles completely, ensuring even cooking. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to Pressure Cook for 5 minutes. After the timer beeps, perform a quick release to let out the steam, then give the noodles a good stir. Let them rest in the pot for an additional 2 minutes to soften further and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Give your garlic noodles a taste test and adjust the salt if needed. Finally, sprinkle the fresh green parts of your scallions and some sesame seeds on top for a pop of color and extra flavor punch before serving.
How to Serve Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
The green scallions and toasted sesame seeds are classic garnishes that brighten up the dish visually and texturally. For an added touch, a squeeze of fresh lime or a few cilantro leaves can add a refreshing contrast to the deep, garlicky sauce.
Side Dishes
Garlic noodles are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with grilled or sautéed veggies like broccoli or snap peas, juicy teriyaki chicken, or even crispy tofu for those wanting a protein boost. A simple cucumber salad also offers a lovely crisp and cooling counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, toss the garlic noodles with sautéed mushrooms and crushed peanuts for an Asian-inspired noodle salad. Or serve them wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb handheld version. These noodles also make a sumptuous filling for stuffed bell peppers or spring rolls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover garlic noodles store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors actually deepen over time, so they can taste even better the next day.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the noodles by placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to reinvigorate that delicious garlicky aroma.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for the Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti or Canton noodles work best for texture, you can experiment with rice noodles, udon, or soba depending on your preference, adjusting cooking times slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the oyster sauce with a vegan oyster sauce or mushroom sauce, and use oil instead of butter. All other ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
How spicy is the dish, and can I adjust it?
The amount of chili sauce is flexible—you can use less for a mild flavor or more if you love heat. Sambal Oelek is mild to moderate in spice, but feel free to swap for your favorite chili paste.
Do I need to soak the noodles before cooking?
No soaking is necessary! The Instant Pot pressure cooking with enough broth will perfectly cook the noodles, ensuring they absorb all the amazing flavors.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
You can, but keep the noodle layer thin and avoid overcrowding the pot for even cooking. You might need to increase the broth slightly and adjust cooking time by a minute or two.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Garlic Noodles Recipe is a true winner for anyone craving a flavorful, garlicky meal packed with comforting noodles and exciting depth. It’s efficient, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for busy days when you still want something delicious and satisfying. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients come together to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
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 is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender spaghetti noodles cooked with a savory blend of garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of chili. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave comforting Asian-inspired noodles with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Oils
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter (avocado oil recommended)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Noodles
- 8 ounces thin spaghetti or Canton noodles
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 8–10 cloves garlic, finely diced or minced
- 2 scallions or green onions, white and green parts separated and chopped
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (vegan substitute if needed)
- 1/2–1 tablespoon red chili sauce (Sambal Oelek recommended)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt to taste
Liquids
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
Instructions
- Heat the Instant Pot: Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to Saute mode to begin heating.
- Saute Garlic and Scallions: Add the oil and toasted sesame oil to the pot. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic and the white parts of the scallions until fragrant and lightly golden, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Prepare the Noodles: Break the spaghetti noodles in half so they fit into the Instant Pot. Place them in a zigzag pattern inside the pot to prevent sticking.
- Add Sauces and Sugar: Pour the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, red chili sauce, and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the noodles.
- Add Broth: Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth or water, ensuring that the noodles are fully submerged in liquid for even cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
- Release Pressure and Rest: Once cooking is complete, perform a quick pressure release. Open the lid, stir the noodles thoroughly, and allow them to rest for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Garnish with the green parts of the scallions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute spaghetti with any thin noodles like Canton or linguine for a slight variation in texture.
- For a vegan version, use vegan oyster sauce or mushroom-based sauce alternatives.
- Adjust the amount of chili sauce to suit your spice preference.
- To add protein, consider topping with cooked tofu, shrimp, or chicken after cooking.
- Use vegetable broth for enhanced flavor or water if you prefer a lighter taste.
- The noodles cook quickly, so do not exceed the recommended pressure cooking time to avoid overcooking.
