Buttery Garlic Lo Mein is a dish that always brings back warm memories for me. I remember the first time I made it in my tiny kitchen. The rich smell of garlic and butter filled the air, making my mouth water. As I tossed the noodles in the buttery sauce, I felt like a real chef! Buttery Garlic Lo Mein became my go-to recipe for quick dinners and special occasions. I loved how simple it was to make yet so delicious.
A Family Favorite
Every time I serve Buttery Garlic Lo Mein, my family gathers around the table, excited to dig in. My kids adore the soft noodles coated in that shiny, buttery sauce. I often hear them say, “This is the best!” and it warms my heart. We usually pair it with crispy vegetables and tender shrimp or chicken. The combination of flavors is so satisfying that I can never make enough. Everyone always asks for seconds!
Cooking Together
Cooking Buttery Garlic Lo Mein has also become a family activity. On weekends, my kids help me in the kitchen. They measure the ingredients and mix the noodles while I prepare the sauce. It’s a wonderful way to bond, and I cherish these moments. The laughter and chatter make the kitchen feel alive. By the time we sit down to eat, we are all proud of what we made together.
I love sharing my recipe for Buttery Garlic Lo Mein with friends too. When they come over, I invite them to join me in the kitchen. It’s fun to see their surprised faces when they taste it for the first time. I always tell them how easy it is to prepare. Every bite brings a smile, and I hope they feel the same love I put into making it. Buttery Garlic Lo Mein is more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect with the people I care about.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Buttery Garlic Lo Mein
- Make sure to cook the noodles just until they are tender but still firm (al dente). Overcooking can result in mushy noodles. Keep an eye on them!
- To prevent the garlic from burning, sauté it on medium heat and stir frequently. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to the dish.
- Taste the sauce before adding it to the noodles. Adjust the salt, sugar, or sauces according to your preference for sweetness and umami.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly in the garlic butter before adding the noodles.
- For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu. Stir them in right after the garlic butter is ready.
Buttery Garlic Lo Mein
4
servings10
minutes10
minutes465
kcal20
minutesIndulge in the rich, savory flavors of our Easy Buttery Garlic Lo Mein! This vibrant side dish features perfectly chewy noodles enveloped in a luscious, garlicky butter sauce infused with umami-packed oyster and fish sauces. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh green onions, it’s a quick and satisfying addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a weeknight meal, this crowd-pleasing recipe is sure to impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire. Try it today and experience the magic of simple, flavorful cooking!
Ingredients
1 pound refrigerated lo mein noodles or preferred thick noodles
2 teaspoons oyster sauce
2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons fish sauce
1 teaspoon white granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12-15 cloves garlic finely minced
1.5 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1-2 green onions thinly sliced
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Alternative Ingredients:
Unsalted Butter: Substitute with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese as a dairy-free alternative.
Lo Mein Noodles: Replace with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles for a gluten-free version.
Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Fish Sauce: Omit or use vegetarian mushroom sauce as a substitute.
Oyster Sauce: Replace with hoisin sauce or vegetarian oyster sauce.
White Sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup.
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, low-sodium soy sauce, fish sauce, and white sugar. Whisk thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth and well-blended mixture. Set this savory sauce aside for later use.
- Cook the Garlic Butter – Heat the unsalted butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. It’s crucial to cook the garlic lightly to maintain its delicate flavor without browning.
- Boil the Noodles – While the garlic butter is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the lo mein noodles and gently stir to separate them, being careful not to overwork or break the noodles. Cook for no more than 30 seconds, then use tongs to swiftly transfer the noodles into the skillet with the garlic butter.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce – Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles, ensuring that the sugar is fully incorporated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss and stir the noodles thoroughly to evenly distribute the sauce, coating each strand beautifully.
- Finish and Serve – Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and sliced green onions over the noodles. Toss to combine all ingredients and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- cutting board
- knife set
- stainless steel cookware set
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 465kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 17mg
- Sodium: 787mg
- Potassium: 69mg
- Carbohydrates: 86g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Vitamin A: 222IU
- Vitamin C: 3mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ- Buttery Garlic Lo Mein
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute lo mein noodles with udon, spaghetti, or even gluten-free noodles. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is there a vegan version of this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the noodles moist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the noodles and garlic right before serving.
What can I serve with Buttery Garlic Lo Mein?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, stir-fried vegetables, or as a standalone vegetarian meal alongside a fresh salad.
