Buttery Garlic Shrimp Noodles with Soy-Honey Glaze

These shrimp garlic noodles are a weeknight dream: tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich, aromatic sauce that clings to every strand. The garlic is bold but not overpowering, the red pepper flakes add just enough warmth, and the honey rounds everything out with subtle sweetness. Garnish with green onions and herbs for freshness, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal that’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly craveable.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes
Approximate Nutrition per Serving: ~380–450 kcal, ~28–32g protein

Ingredients

For the noodles & shrimp:

• 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine (or rice noodles for gluten-free)
• 1 lb (450 g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the garlic-soy sauce:

• 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced (fresh is best for bold flavor)
• ¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for your preferred heat level)
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar)
• ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water (essential for silky texture)

For garnish & finishing:

• 2–3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional but adds brightness)
• Optional extras: Squeeze of fresh lime juice, toasted sesame seeds, or extra chili flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package time—it will finish in the sauce).
   Before draining, reserve at least ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain pasta and set aside (toss lightly with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking).
2. Sear the shrimp
   Pat shrimp very dry with paper towels (key for a good sear). Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
   In a large skillet or wok, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and lightly golden. Remove to a plate—don’t overcook; they’ll finish in the sauce.
3. Build the garlic sauce
   Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté 45–60 seconds until fragrant and just golden (stir constantly—burnt garlic turns bitter).
   Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and ¼ cup reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and let simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
4. Combine everything
   Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding more reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until the noodles are silky and the sauce clings beautifully.
   Return cooked shrimp (and any juices) to the pan. Toss gently 1–2 minutes to heat through and let flavors meld.
5. Garnish & serve
   Remove from heat. Sprinkle with sliced green onions, chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, and extra black pepper or chili flakes if desired.
   Serve immediately—hot and saucy—in bowls with extra sauce spooned over the top. Pair with lime wedges for a bright finish.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Pasta water is magic — The starch emulsifies the butter and sauce into a silky coating—don’t skip reserving it.
• Shrimp timing — Remove them early; residual heat from the sauce finishes cooking without turning them rubbery.
• Garlic control — Fresh garlic gives the best flavor—add it after the butter melts to avoid burning.
• Make it your own — Add spinach, snap peas, or sliced mushrooms with the shrimp for extra veggies.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy lovers — Double the red pepper flakes or add sriracha or chili crisp to the sauce.
• Gluten-free — Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.
• Creamier — Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer sauce.
• Protein boost — Add scallops, chicken, or tofu alongside or instead of shrimp.

This shrimp garlic noodles dish is buttery, garlicky, slightly sweet, and perfectly spicy—the kind of quick comfort food you’ll crave again and again. It’s fast, flavorful, and feels like takeout without leaving home! Try it tonight and let me know how much heat you added in the comments. 🍤🧄🍜