Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles Quick 20-Minute Dinner

Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, you’re completely wiped out from the day, and the last thing you want to do is spend an hour in the kitchen.

But your family is hungry, and you’re craving something that actually tastes amazing. That’s exactly when I discovered this incredible Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles recipe that has literally saved my sanity on countless occasions!

I’m not even kidding when I say this dish lives up to its “lightning” name – we’re talking 20 minutes from start to finish, and trust me, every single bite is pure comfort food magic.

The combination of tender steak, perfectly cooked noodles, and that irresistible garlic butter sauce creates something so delicious that Henry and the kids request it at least twice a week.

Plus, if you’re looking for more quick dinner solutions, you’ll absolutely love my easy cottage cheese wraps recipe for another speedy meal option.

The best part? You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry right now.

No fancy shopping trips, no complicated techniques just straightforward cooking that delivers restaurant quality results every single time.

Why You Will Love This Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles Recipe

• Lightning-fast preparation seriously, 20 minutes total and you’re done!
• One-pan cooking minimal cleanup means more time with your family
• Restaurant-quality flavors at a fraction of the cost
• Kid-approved taste even my pickiest eater, Noah, devours this dish
• Customizable spice level make it mild for the kids or kick it up a notch
• Perfect for meal prep tastes even better the next day for lunch

Ingredients Needed for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles

For the noodles and steak:

• 8 oz rice noodles (or spaghetti if you prefer)
• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (don’t even think about using the jarred stuff!)

For the lightning sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium works great)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but so worth it)

For garnish:

• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Pro tip: I always slice my steak when it’s slightly frozen – makes getting those perfect thin slices so much easier!

How to Make the Best Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles

Step 1: Prep your noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to package directions until just tender.

Don’t overcook them – they’ll finish cooking in the skillet later. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear that steak to perfection

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.

Add your sliced steak in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned.

Remove from skillet and set aside – don’t worry, it’ll finish cooking later.

Step 3: Create the magic garlic butter base

Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet.

Toss in that minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 4: Build your lightning sauce

Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

This sauce comes together so quickly, you’ll be amazed.

Step 5: Bring it all together

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything to coat in that gorgeous sauce.

Return the steak to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for just 1-2 more minutes until the steak is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Serve immediately while it’s hot and amazing!

FAQs About Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles

Why This Lightning Noodle Recipe Works Every Time

The secret to perfect Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles is all in the timing and technique.

By searing the steak first, you’re building layers of flavor that infuse the entire dish.

The garlic butter sauce brings everything together with that perfect balance of savory and rich flavors.

What I absolutely love about this recipe is how forgiving it is.

New to cooking steak? No problem – the thin slices cook so quickly that it’s nearly impossible to overcook them.

Not sure about the spice level? Start with less and add more to taste.

This dish has become our go-to for busy weeknights, and I know it’ll become yours too.

The combination of tender steak, perfectly seasoned noodles, and that incredible garlic butter sauce creates something truly special that brings our whole family to the table with genuine excitement.

Save this recipe to Pinterest for those nights when you need dinner fast, and trust me you’ll be making this Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles recipe again and again!

Recipes You May Like

• Kodiak Cakes Cottage Cheese Pancakes another quick and protein-packed family favorite
• Easy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for when you want comfort food with a healthy twist
• High Protein Snacks perfect for keeping your energy up between meals

Happy cooking!

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