Spicy Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Spicy garlic chili oil noodles are bold, flavorful, and ready in just 10 minutes. Made with chewy noodles, aromatic garlic, and a fiery chili oil sauce, this quick and easy dish is perfect for spice lovers. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying late-night meal, this recipe delivers intense flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for a fast meal.
• Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of heat, umami, and a hint of sweetness.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add protein for a heartier dish.
• Vegan-Friendly – Can be made completely plant-based with the right noodle choice.
• Authentic Taste – Uses Sichuan-inspired ingredients for an authentic flavor experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz noodles (udon, ramen, or wheat noodles)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chili flakes (or Sichuan chili flakes for extra heat)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or black vinegar)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns (optional, for numbing heat)
• 1 tbsp green onions, chopped
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the noodles – Boil the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the chili oil mix – In a heatproof bowl, add minced garlic, chili flakes, Sichuan peppercorns (if using), and sesame seeds.
3. Heat the oil – In a small pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully pour the hot oil over the garlic and chili flakes. Let it sizzle for a few seconds to release the aroma.
4. Mix the sauce – Stir in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
5. Combine – Toss the cooked noodles in the chili oil sauce until well coated.
6. Garnish and serve – Top with chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Protein Boost – Add a fried egg, tofu, or shredded chicken for extra protein.
• Nutty Flavor – Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or tahini for a creamy texture.
• Vegetable Addition – Include sautéed mushrooms, bok choy, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Less Spicy – Reduce the chili flakes and Sichuan peppercorns to tone down the heat.
• More Tangy – Use black vinegar instead of rice vinegar for a deeper, authentic tang.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating – Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or extra soy sauce to loosen the noodles. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent drying out.

FAQs

How spicy are these noodles?

The spice level depends on the chili flakes used. Sichuan chili flakes add more heat, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, you can use any noodles you like, including ramen, udon, wheat, or even rice noodles.

What if I don’t have dark soy sauce?

You can replace dark soy sauce with an extra teaspoon of regular soy sauce, though it won’t have the same depth of color.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and rice noodles instead of wheat noodles.

What oil is best for making chili oil?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best because they don’t overpower the flavors.

How can I make the dish milder?

Reduce the amount of chili flakes and Sichuan peppercorns, or use a milder variety of chili flakes.

Can I prepare the chili oil in advance?

Yes, homemade chili oil can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month.

What can I serve with these noodles?

They pair well with dumplings, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad.

Is there a way to make it sweeter?

You can increase the sugar slightly or add a touch of honey for a subtle sweetness.

Can I use pre-made chili oil?

Yes, but fresh chili oil made with garlic and Sichuan peppercorns will have a more vibrant taste.

Conclusion

Spicy garlic chili oil noodles are an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for spice lovers. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch. Try different variations to customize the spice level and toppings to your liking. Enjoy this bold and satisfying noodle dish any time you crave a kick of heat!