Gyu-Kaku is a global Japanese BBQ restaurant chain that specializes in yakiniku-style dining, where diners grill their own meats at the table. The chain originated in Japan and has expanded internationally, becoming especially popular in the United States, Canada, and Southeast Asia.
While the focus of Gyu-Kaku is on grilled meats, its side dishes are just as beloved. The Garlic Noodles stand out due to their simple yet bold flavors. Inspired by Japanese and Asian fusion flavors, these noodles complement grilled meats while being flavorful enough to enjoy on their own.
This dish has since become a favorite for home cooks, as it’s easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples, yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with BBQ dishes.
Unlike traditional Japanese ramen or udon dishes, Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles are pan-fried rather than served in broth. They pair perfectly with grilled meats, making them a must-order item at Gyu-Kaku locations worldwide.
Ingredients
Main Components:
- Noodles (yakisoba, udon, or spaghetti)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Soy Sauce
- Oyster Sauce
- Sesame Oil
- Salt and Black Pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- Green Onions (chopped)
- Sesame Seeds
- Protein Options (grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu)
- Vegetables (bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli)
How to Make Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles at Home
Preparation Steps:
Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set the sauce mixture aside for later use.
Cooking Techniques:
Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can impart a bitter taste.
Combine Noodles with Sauce:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles. Toss the noodles gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Incorporate Optional Add-ins:
If adding proteins or vegetables, ensure they are cooked appropriately before mixing them into the noodles. Toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the garlic noodles to serving plates. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
Noodle Selection: Fresh yakisoba or udon noodles are ideal for this recipe due to their chewy texture. However, spaghetti or other pasta can be used as substitutes if Asian noodles are unavailable.
Garlic Preparation: Using fresh garlic cloves provides the most robust flavor. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish.
Balancing Flavors: Adjust the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce to suit your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of sugar can balance the saltiness if needed.
Avoiding Burnt Garlic: Sauté the garlic over medium heat and stir continuously to prevent it from burning, which can cause bitterness.
Enhancing Umami: A dash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the umami flavor profile of the dish.
Variations of Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles
Protein Additions
Grilled Chicken – A great way to add protein, grilled teriyaki chicken pairs well with the garlicky sauce. Slice the chicken thinly and toss it with the noodles before serving.
Shrimp – Garlic butter shrimp is a classic combination with these noodles. Sauté shrimp separately with butter and garlic, then mix them in for a seafood twist.
Tofu – For a vegetarian-friendly protein boost, crispy pan-fried tofu can be added. Press and cube the tofu, then sear until golden before incorporating it into the dish.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Butter Substitutes – Use plant-based butter or olive oil to make the dish completely vegan while keeping the rich, garlicky taste.
Sauce Alternatives – Traditional oyster sauce contains seafood, but you can replace it with vegetarian oyster sauce (made from mushrooms) or a mix of soy sauce and a hint of brown sugar to mimic its sweetness.
Extra Veggies – Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or bok choy for a more nutrient-packed meal.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
Tempura – Light and crispy tempura (shrimp or vegetable) provides a perfect contrast to the savory, rich garlic noodles.
Miso Soup – A warm, comforting miso soup complements the noodles and makes the meal feel more traditional and complete.
Edamame – Steamed edamame with sea salt is a great, protein-rich side dish that pairs well with the noodles.
Presentation Tips
Garnishing – Sprinkle chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added color and texture.
Serving Style – Serve the noodles in a deep, slightly curved plate or bowl to keep the sauce from pooling at the bottom. Using chopsticks adds an authentic touch.
Drizzle of Extra Butter or Sesame Oil – A small drizzle before serving enhances the glossy finish and adds extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes! While yakisoba, udon, or egg noodles are the best choices for Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles, you can substitute them with:
- Spaghetti or linguine (for a similar texture).
- Ramen noodles (for a springy, chewy bite).
- Rice noodles (for a gluten-free option).
Just be sure to cook the noodles until al dente, so they don’t become too soft when mixed with the sauce.
🔹 How can I make the dish spicier?
If you love spice, here are a few ways to add heat to your garlic noodles:
Red pepper flakes – Sprinkle some while sautéing the garlic for a mild kick.
Sriracha or chili oil – Drizzle over the noodles before serving for extra heat.
Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – Mix a small amount into the sauce for a rich, spicy depth.
🔹 Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter to revive the noodles. Microwave reheating works, but it can dry out the noodles.
Avoid Freezing – Since the noodles and sauce can lose texture, freezing is not recommended.
More Recipes
Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles
Ingredients
Main Components:
- 12 oz 340g Noodles, of your choice such as yakisoba, udon, or spaghetti.
- 6 cloves Garlic minced
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
- To taste Salt
- To taste Black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- To taste Green Onions chopped for garnish
- To taste Sesame Seeds for garnish
- As desired Grilled chicken shrimp, or tofu, for a more substantial meal.
- As desired Bell peppers mushrooms, or broccoli, to enhance the dish's nutritional value and flavor.
Instructions
How to Make Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles at Home
Preparation Steps:
Cook the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set the sauce mixture aside for later use.
Cooking Techniques:
Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can impart a bitter taste.
Combine Noodles with Sauce:
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles. Toss the noodles gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Incorporate Optional Add-ins:
- If adding proteins or vegetables, ensure they are cooked appropriately before mixing them into the noodles. Toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the garlic noodles to serving plates. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
