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Spicy Gochujang Butter Noodles
The undisputed champion of Google's most searched recipes in 2026, this 15-minute viral pasta dish balances fiery, funky Korean gochujang with rich brown butter and honey for a silky, emulsified sauce that clings to every noodle. Budget-friendly, addictive, and faster than making boxed mac and cheese.
Prep5 min
Cook10 min
Serves2
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it foam and continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 3-4 minutes.
- 3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4. Whisk in the gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth and bubbling.
- 5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously with tongs until the sauce emulsifies and coats every noodle. Add more pasta water as needed for a silky consistency.
- 6. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and season with salt to taste.
- 7. Serve immediately, topped with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes.
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