Dinner

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Udon Noodles

ByMariem September 27, 2025

Few things are as comforting as a bowl of noodles coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce. Udon noodles, with their thick and chewy texture, make this dish feel extra indulgent while still being quick and easy to prepare. Combined with earthy mushrooms and a rich cream base, these noodles are the perfect balance of savory, satisfying, and cozy. It’s the kind of meal that comes together in under 30 minutes yet feels like a restaurant-quality dish.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Garlic and mushrooms provide the foundation of flavor, while cream and parmesan cheese bring richness. Tossing udon noodles into this sauce transforms them into a luxurious dish that feels both hearty and light. You can enjoy it as a vegetarian main dish, or make it more filling by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

200 g fresh or frozen udon noodles
1 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, cremini, or button)
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional but recommended)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the noodles – Boil udon noodles according to package instructions until tender and chewy. Drain and set aside.
Sauté garlic and mushrooms – In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until golden and tender, releasing their juices.
Make the sauce – Pour in the cream and stir gently. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
Add the noodles – Toss the cooked udon noodles into the skillet, coating them evenly with the creamy garlic mushroom sauce.
Finish and garnish – Sprinkle with chopped green onions for freshness and serve immediately while hot.

Flavor Notes & Variations

Add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for an umami boost. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness to balance the richness. Spice lovers can toss in a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these creamy garlic mushroom udon noodles as a comforting dinner with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad. For a complete meal, add grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or pan-fried tofu on top. This dish also pairs beautifully with a light white wine or iced green tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried udon noodles instead of fresh?
Yes, dried udon noodles work just as well. Simply cook them according to the package instructions before adding to the sauce.

2. What mushrooms are best for this dish?
Shiitake mushrooms provide the deepest flavor, but cremini, portobello, or button mushrooms also work well. A mix of different mushrooms adds complexity.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Replace butter with olive oil, cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and omit or replace parmesan with nutritional yeast.

4. How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Keep the heat on medium-low and avoid boiling the sauce once the cream is added. Stir gently to maintain a smooth consistency.

5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Spinach, bok choy, peas, or even zucchini blend beautifully with the creamy sauce and mushrooms.

6. How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

7. Can I use spaghetti or other noodles instead of udon?
Yes, though udon’s chewy texture is part of the charm. Spaghetti, linguine, or even rice noodles make good substitutes.

8. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic mushroom sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat and toss in freshly cooked noodles.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Udon Noodles are proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. In less than half an hour, you can create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. The garlicky cream sauce clings beautifully to the chewy noodles, while mushrooms add depth and texture. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy solo meal or serve it to impress guests, this recipe is a keeper. Once you taste how simple yet luxurious it is, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.