P.F. Chang’s Garlic Noodles Recipe

P.F. Chang’s garlic noodles are one of my most cherished foods to eat out. But… also one of the easiest to replicate at home!

One trick I’ve learned over the years is to balance the heat using crushed red pepper or a bit of chile garlic paste.

It brings out the bold flavors in the dish without overwhelming it.

Whether you’re in a rush or entertaining friends, these noodles offer a savory blend of garlic, soy, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Mmm!

How to Make P.F. Chang’s Garlic Noodles

Ingredients

• 8 oz. Spaghetti
• 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
• 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Red Chile Flakes
• 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
• 1 Cucumber (sliced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.

Rinse under cold water and drain well.

Step 2:

In a wok or large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3:

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet.

Toss in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to coat the noodles.

Step 4:

Mix in the red chile flakes and cilantro.

Toss the spaghetti until everything is mixed and heated through.

Step 5:

Serve the noodles with cucumber slices on the side.

This provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Adjusting Spice Levels

If you prefer a milder dish, you might reduce the amount of red chile flakes, or leave them out entirely.

For more heat, feel free to add extra or even incorporate some sliced fresh chilies.

Cooking Garlic Perfectly

Be cautious with the garlic! Cooking it too long can make it bitter, so only sauté it briefly until the aroma is just right.

Using Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh cilantro and garlic really enhances the flavor of this dish, so I recommend using fresh over dried or jarred whenever possible.

Variations and Ingredients

Feel free to experiment by adding other ingredients like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.

Blanching some veggies like bok choy can also add a healthy crunch to the dish.

What to Serve with P.F. Chang’s Garlic Noodles

Steamed Vegetables

Steamed vegetables are a simple and nutritious choice to pair with P.F. Chang’s Garlic Noodles.

Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snow peas complement the flavors wonderfully.

You can steam them until tender and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup is a classic and delicious option that pairs well with garlic noodles.

Its light and savory taste adds a comforting element to your meal.

You can prepare it ahead of time and serve it piping hot alongside the noodles.

Spicy Cucumber Salad

A spicy cucumber salad brings a refreshing and tangy note to the dish.

You can slice fresh cucumbers and toss them with chili oil, vinegar, and sesame seeds.

This side dish is easy to make and will add a pleasant crunch to your meal.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers offer a fantastic protein option that goes great with the noodles.

You can marinate the shrimp in a soy-ginger sauce to enhance the taste.

Grill them to perfection, and serve them warm for a delicious accompaniment.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts with a bit of garlic make a unique and tasty side dish.

You can toss the sprouts with olive oil and roast them until they are crispy.

Adding some sliced almonds on top would provide an additional crunch and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

You can mix in some protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a heartier dish!

I love a bit of crunch, so tossing in some roasted peanuts or cashews can really add a new texture.

If you’re a fan of spice, a dash of sriracha or chili oil can give your garlic noodles an extra kick.

Here’s a tip: you can swap regular soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.

Using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash is a great low-carb substitution if you’re looking to cut back on pasta.

For a fresh touch, consider tossing in your favorite seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas.

Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped scallions can enhance flavor and presentation.

To achieve a richer taste, you might try using butter instead of oil when tossing the noodles with garlic.

Playing with these variations can make your dish unique and tailored to your preferences.

How to Store Leftover Garlic Noodles

Refrigeration Tips

Once you’re done enjoying your delicious garlic noodles, pop any leftovers in an airtight container.

This will help keep them fresh and prevent any strong aromas from lingering in your fridge.

Store them in the fridge where they should stay good for up to three days.

Freezing Option

If you wish to store them longer, freezing is the way to go!

First, place your cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Be sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.

These can be stored in the freezer for up to two months.

Labeling and Portioning

When storing, it’s a great idea to label the container with the date.

This way, you know how long they’ve been stored.

Consider portioning the noodles into individual servings for easy reheating later on!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Noodles

You might be tempted to cook the noodles for just a little longer to make sure they’re soft.

Overcooked noodles can become mushy and break apart easily, losing the desired texture.

Cook them until they’re just al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

Skipping Ingredient Preparation

Having all your ingredients ready before starting is crucial for this quick dish.

If you start cooking without preparing the ingredients, you might end up rushing and adding them at the wrong time.

Take a few minutes to prepare everything, so you can focus on cooking and getting each step right.

Misbalancing Flavors

Balancing flavors is key, but adding too much soy sauce or garlic can overpower the dish.

Measure your ingredients carefully to keep the flavors in harmony.

Taste the sauce as you go and adjust if needed, but remember that it’s easier to add more than to take away.