Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles

Short Description

This quick and flavorful dish combines tender, marinated steak with buttery, garlicky noodles, all coated in a savory-sweet sauce. Ideal for satisfying dinner cravings in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: From marinating to plating in about 30 minutes.

• Bold flavors: Soy, hoisin, garlic, butter, and a hint of ginger create a rich, restaurant-style taste.

• Versatile and hearty: Works with various steaks and noodle types; ideal for a comforting yet elegant weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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

• Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye, thinly sliced

• Unsalted butter

• Garlic, minced

• Honey or brown sugar

• Hoisin sauce

• Soy sauce

• Vegetable oil

• Fresh or dried ramen or spaghetti noodles

• Grated ginger

• Sesame oil

• Oyster sauce (optional but recommended)

• Cornstarch

• Beef broth or water

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Marinate the steak: In a bowl, mix thinly sliced steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Ensure even coating and let rest for 15–20 minutes.

2. Cook the noodles: Boil noodles per package instructions. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.

3. Sear the steak: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated steak until browned (3–4 minutes). Remove and set aside.

4. Build the sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining oil and melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey or brown sugar, and beef broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Combine all: Add noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly. Return the steak to the pan, mixing everything together. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.

7. Serve: Plate immediately and optionally top with red pepper flakes for added heat.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 3–4 servings

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (includes marinating)

• Cooking Time: 5 minutes (active cook)

• Total Time: Approximately 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy variation: Add chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to the sauce.

• Vegetable addition: Toss in wilted spinach, sliced bell peppers, or broccoli florets during sauce cooking.

• Seafood swap: Replace steak with shrimp—cook until pink for a lighter version.

• Noodle choice: Use udon, rice noodles, or whole wheat spaghetti for different textures and dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to restore sauce consistency and avoid drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I marinate longer than 20 minutes?

Yes. Marinating steak for up to 2 hours (refrigerated) enhances flavor. Avoid going beyond that to prevent texture changes.

2. What if I don’t have beef broth?

Use water or chicken broth instead. For extra flavor, add a pinch of beef bouillon powder.

3. Is hoisin sauce necessary?

While optional, hoisin adds a distinct sweet-savory balance. Substitute with plum sauce or omit, adjusting other seasonings as needed.

4. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes. Skirt steak, sirloin tip, or tri-tip work well when thinly sliced against the grain.

5. How do I prevent noodles from sticking?

Rinse cooked noodles with cold water, then toss with a small drizzle of oil before combining with the sauce.

6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and swap regular hoisin for a gluten-free version. Ensure noodles are gluten-free.

7. Can this be made ahead?

Prepare steak and sauce ahead, store separately, then reheat and combine for quick assembly at mealtime.

8. What garnish works well?

Chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro add color and flavor at serving.

9. How spicy is the dish?

The base version isn’t spicy. Adjust heat level using red pepper flakes or chili sauce to suit your preference.

10. Can I halve or double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just maintain the ingredient ratios and adjust cooking equipment or times accordingly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles deliver a rich, savory meal in minimal time. With luscious steak, aromatic garlic-butter sauce, and adaptable ingredients, this dish brings both comfort and flair to the weeknight table.