Gochujang Buttered Noodles (23 Minutes)

Send it straight to your inbox, and cook it when you're ready!

Print

Print Recipe

Gochujang buttered noodles is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the rich, umami-packed heat of Korean gochujang (a red chili paste) with the comforting texture of buttered noodles.

This fusion dish is a testament to the versatility of gochujang, showcasing how it can add depth and warmth to a simple, familiar base like buttered noodles.

Perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick to their meals, this dish is both easy to prepare and delightfully satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a new way to spice up your pasta routine, this dish is an excellent choice.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz noodles (such as linguine, spaghetti, or even Ramen noodles)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook Noodles (10 minutes): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
  2. Make Gochujang Butter Sauce (5 minutes): In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the gochujang, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Stir to combine and cook for about 2 minutes, until the ingredients are well blended and aromatic.
  3. Combine Noodles and Sauce (5 minutes): Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the gochujang butter sauce. Toss the noodles in the sauce until they are evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Serve (2 minutes): Plate the Gochujang Buttered Noodles. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for added flavor and texture.
  5. Enjoy (1 minute): Serve the noodles hot, enjoying the spicy and savory flavors.

Notes

Gochujang buttered noodles is a dish that thrives on the balance of flavors. The gochujang provides a deep, complex heat that is mellowed by the rich butter and sweetened by the honey or sugar.

When preparing the sauce, ensure the gochujang is thoroughly mixed into the butter to prevent any clumps. Feel free to adjust the level of spice to your preference by altering the amount of gochujang.

This dish is incredibly versatile – you can add protein like chicken, beef, or tofu, or incorporate vegetables for added nutrition. It’s a simple yet impactful dish that’s sure to become a favorite for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Pair this with...

Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad

Start by slicing a cucumber into thin rounds. In a bowl, combine a splash of soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, and a bit of rice vinegar for tang. Add in a pinch of sugar for balance and some red pepper flakes or a dab of chili paste for that spicy touch. Mix these together to create your dressing. Toss the cucumber slices in the dressing, ensuring they're well-coated. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in some toasted sesame seeds. If you have green onions or cilantro, chop some up and mix them in. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Homemade Spring Rolls

Start by grabbing some spring roll wrappers; you'll find them at most Asian grocery stores. For the filling, combine finely shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, sliced green onions, minced garlic, a splash of soy sauce, and some cooked minced chicken or shrimp, if you fancy. Lay out a wrapper, place a tablespoon of filling near the bottom corner, fold the sides in and roll up. Seal the edge with a bit of water or egg wash. Now, heat some oil in a deep-fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Once hot, gently slide in the rolls, a few at a time, frying until golden and crispy, which is usually about 4-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels, serve with sweet chili or soy sauce, and enjoy the crunch!

Mango Lassi

This traditional Indian drink marries the sweetness of mangoes with the tang of yogurt. To whip one up, you'll need a ripe mango. Peel, pit, and chop it, tossing the juicy chunks into a blender. Add about a cup of plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works well for extra creaminess). For that hint of sweetness and depth, pour in a tablespoon or two of honey or sugar. Some folks like adding a pinch of ground cardamom for that extra aromatic kick. Blend everything until smooth. If the mixture feels too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk or water. Pour your lassi into a glass, and if you're feeling fancy, garnish with a little sprinkle of ground pistachios or a mint leaf.

For Tomorrow's Dinner

Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl (30 Minutes)

Spicy Coconut Cream Shrimp and Scallops (30 Minutes)

Eggplant Rollatini (30-35 Minutes)

Pork and Beef Barbecue Meatballs (30 Minutes)

Hi, I'm Alaina! As a busy mom of two, I'm tired of always wondering "what's for dinner?" That's why I created this website; to share easy and tasty recipe ideas the whole family will love. If you're not subscribed yet, join 47,098 others here - thanks for stopping by!