Name: Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 8 oz flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 8 oz egg noodles or ramen noodles, cooked according to package instructions; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon honey; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup green onions, sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles is my go-to dish when I crave something indulgent yet quick. This recipe brings together tender slices of steak and silky noodles, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. It’s the perfect fusion of comfort and flavor, ready in just 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I can whip it up in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
The combination of garlic butter and savory sauces creates a deeply flavorful dish.
It’s a one-pan meal, which means minimal cleanup for me.
The ingredients are simple and likely already in my pantry.
Leftovers taste just as good, if not better, the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
8 oz egg noodles or ramen noodles, cooked according to package instructions
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Then, I add the thinly sliced flank steak in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes until browned and just cooked through. I avoid overcrowding the pan by cooking in batches if needed. Once done, I remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet with the steak drippings, I reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, I add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. If I’m using red pepper flakes, I add them and cook for another 15 seconds.
I add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey to the skillet. I stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. I season with salt and black pepper, then simmer for 1 minute until slightly thickened.
I add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss until thoroughly coated in the garlic butter sauce. Then, I return the steak slices to the pan, along with any accumulated juices. I gently toss to combine and coat the steak with the sauce.
I cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through. I remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. I serve immediately while hot.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Variations

For a low-carb alternative, I substitute the noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
I can easily swap the flank steak with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
To adjust the spice level, I add more or less red pepper flakes according to my preference.
Sometimes, I toss in vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I warm the noodles gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. I avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of the noodles can suffer.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, I can use ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak. I just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

What noodles work best with this recipe?

I find that traditional egg noodles or ramen noodles work great, but I can also use udon, rice noodles, or even spaghetti. For a gluten-free option, I use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For extra heat, I increase the red pepper flakes or add a sliced fresh chili pepper. I could also add a teaspoon of chili oil or sriracha to the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, I can prepare the components ahead of time. I cook the steak and make the sauce, storing them separately from the noodles. When ready to serve, I reheat the sauce, add freshly cooked noodles, then mix in the steak just long enough to warm it.

What vegetables would go well in this dish?

Great additions include broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby spinach. I add heartier vegetables when sautéing the garlic, and more delicate ones like spinach just before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s quick, flavorful, and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m cooking for myself or entertaining guests, this dish never fails to impress.