Spicy Gochujang Buttered Noodles (15-Minute Recipe)
Looking for a quick and spicy noodle dish that hits all the right notes? These Spicy Gochujang Buttered Noodles come together in just 15 minutes and are packed with bold flavor from Korean chili paste, garlic, and rich, buttery goodness. Whether you’re craving a simple dinner or a cozy late-night snack, this easy fusion recipe is perfect for any noodle lover. It’s satisfying, easy to make, and totally customizable with whatever ingredients you have in your fridge.
What to Serve With Spicy Gochujang Buttered Noodles
While these noodles are full of flavor on their own, pairing them with the right sides can turn your bowl into a complete and satisfying Korean-inspired meal. Here are some simple and delicious ideas to round out your plate:
1. Light and Fresh Sides
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing Korean-style cucumber salad with sesame oil and rice vinegar balances the heat.
- Kimchi – This classic fermented napa cabbage adds a crunchy, tangy contrast and is a must-have with spicy dishes.
- Pickled Radish or Carrot Slaw – Sweet and sour pickled veggies cut through the richness of the buttered noodles.
2. Protein Pairings
- Fried or Soft-Boiled Egg – A runny yolk adds creaminess and makes the dish feel more indulgent.
- Pan-Seared Tofu – Crispy tofu soaks up the sauce beautifully and is a great plant-based protein option.
- Korean BBQ-Style Beef or Chicken – Grilled bulgogi or spicy gochujang chicken pairs perfectly with the noodles for a more filling meal.
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Gochujang Buttered Noodles are the ultimate quick-fix meal when you’re short on time but craving bold, satisfying flavors. It’s buttery, spicy fusion comfort food at its best—and once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat.
Love noodle dishes? Don’t miss our Easy Scallion Oil Noodles (葱油拌面)—another simple, flavor-packed recipe that belongs in your weeknight rotation.
Spicy Gochujang Buttered Noodles
Equipment
- 1 sauce pan
- 1 cooking pot
Ingredients
- 6 oz spaghetti or your favorite noodles
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 tablespoon gochujang Korean red chili paste
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 4-5 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons green onion chopped, for garnish
- salt and pepper for taste
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Prepare all ingredients ahead of time to ensure a smooth and quick cooking process.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8–9 minutes.
- Make the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until golden—not burnt. Stir in the gochujang, rice vinegar, and honey. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it emulsify.
- Toss with pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. If needed, add more pasta water to help the sauce cling. Add an extra tablespoon of butter and mix well until everything is glossy and well combined.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate the pasta, top with chopped green onions, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use al dente pasta: Slightly firm pasta hold up better and absorb the sauce without getting mushy.
- Sauté garlic just until golden: Burnt garlic can overpower the dish; keep it fragrant and lightly golden.
- Balance the heat: Gochujang is spicy; add a little honey or rice vinegar to mellow the flavor if needed.
- Save pasta water: A splash of reserved pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.