Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. Like many slow-cooked foods, the flavors settle and sing together. Store in the fridge and reheat gently when ready.

Can I use a slow cooker or crock pot?

Absolutely. Cook the sauce separately, then add noodles that are just shy of done. Keep on low and stir occasionally. The result is softer noodles that soak up more sauce.

How do I control the spice level?

Start with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes and add more after tasting. You can also mix in a little sugar or butter to soften the heat if needed.

What pairs well with these noodles?

Pickled vegetables, cornbread, a simple green salad, or a fried egg are all lovely. A cold glass of iced tea completes the Southern comfort feel.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use rice noodles and tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. They will bring the same warm comfort with a slightly different texture.

Easy Korean Style Spicy Garlic Noodles 2026

Name: Korean Style Spicy Garlic Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles; 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1–2 tsp red pepper flakes (to taste); 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (canola or sesame); Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Description

A comforting dish that combines Southern flavors with Korean-inspired heat, featuring garlic and red pepper flakes nestled over spaghetti or rice noodles.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles
6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1–2 tsp red pepper flakes (to taste)
3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp vegetable oil (canola or sesame)
Sliced green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the noodles in boiling salted water until al dente; drain well.
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic; set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until golden.
Add cooked noodles and sauce mixture to the skillet; toss until evenly coated.
Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot garnished with sliced green onions.

Notes

For added richness, finish with real butter or a drizzle of sesame oil. The dish keeps well and is even more flavorful the next day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg