Brown Butter Miso Noodles
Equipment
Ingredients
Brown Butter Miso Noodles
- 6 oz noodles of your choice, I used udon
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp white miso paste
- 2 tbsp noodle water
- 1 tsp sugar
Optional Garnishes
- Parmesan
- Scallions
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Boil a noodle of your choice until al dente and reserve some of the water before rinsing and draining.
- Melt down your butter and let it brown until nutty and fragrant before adding in miso paste and stirring lightly, then add your noodle water and mix until combined.
- Add sugar and stir again before tossing in your noodles, mixing until everything is well coated.
- Place your noodles in a bowl, and optionally garnish with parmesan, scallions, and black pepper.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Why These Brown Butter Miso Noodles Are So Good
Brown butter has a way of making even the simplest meal feel super luxurious, such as these Brown Butter Miso Noodles. This is because the milk solids caramelize and create a complex, nutty flavor that is irreplaceable. Additionally, when you pair it with the deep umami flavors from the miso and balance it with just a pinch of sugar, you get a dish that tastes complex but with simple cooking techniques! I promise you once you take a bite, you’ll be instantly hooked!
The Best Part Of These BRown Butter Miso Noodles
In my opinion, the best part of these Brown Butter Miso Noodles is that it doesn’t need a long list of ingredients. Everything comes together in a single pan with pantry ingredients that you probably already have! You can also build on this recipe and add in extra veggies or protein. I personally love to added shredded chicken breast on top, but you can add anything. The recipe is very forgiving! Even if you store it for a few days, it’ll still maintain all its delicious buttery flavors.
What You’ll Need to Make Brown Butter Miso Noodles
Brown Butter Miso Noodles
- 6 oz noodles of your choice (I used udon)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp miso paste
- 2 tbsp noodle water
- 1 tsp sugar
Optional Garnish
- Grated parmesan
- Sliced scallions
- Cracked black pepper
How to Make Brown Butter Miso Noodles
Boil your noodles in salted water until al dente. Reserve 2 tbsp of noodle water, then drain and set aside.
In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until it turns golden brown.
Stir in the miso paste and mix gently until it melts into the butter.
Add the reserved noodle water and sugar, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth.
Toss in your noodles and coat evenly in the sauce.
Serve in a bowl and garnish with parmesan, scallions, and cracked black pepper, if desired.
Tips & Variations
Use white miso for a mellow, slightly sweet finish.
It’s the most versatile and common option and balances the best with brown butter.
Try it with different noodles!
I’ve tested this recipe with a ton of different noodle types, and my personal favorite is udon, but this recipe works well with spaghetti and even ramen!
Add veggies or protein if you like.
I personally like to add mushrooms, baby spinach, or shredded rotisserie chicken to turn this into a full meal rather than just an accompaniment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Butter is really what gives this dish its signature richness and nuttiness, especially when browned. That being said, ghee or vegan butter will work well if you need a substitute!
What kind of miso should I use?
White miso (also called shiro miso) is best for its subtle sweetness and mild saltiness. Red miso brings a stronger flavor. I find it too strong for this sauce, but too each their own!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just scale up the ingredients evenly and make sure your pan is big enough to toss everything without it getting overcrowded.
Can I meal prep this?
You can, though it’s best fresh. If you’re prepping ahead, store the noodles and sauce separately. When ready to eat, reheat with a splash of water and microwave for 2 minutes on high heat!
Does this pair with other dishes?
Absolutely. As a side dish I’ve found it great with roasted veggies or salmon!
Try These Next
• Craving something also sweet and salty? Try my Korean Fried Chicken Tenders!
• Want another quick dish? Go for my Shanghai Fried Noodles!
• Need a side that’s super popular? You’ll love my Crispy Potato Balls!
