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Creamy Garlic Pepper Steak Udon

creamy garlic pepper steak udon - featured image

Creamy Garlic Pepper Steak Udon is a cozy Asian fusion noodle bowl featuring tender steak, chewy udon noodles, fresh spinach, and a silky garlic cream sauce with a peppery kick. This quick, satisfying dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions and comes together in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz sirloin steak, thinly sliced (ribeye or strip steak also works)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (fresh cracked)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or grapeseed)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin for a sweeter twist)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground white pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (to thin if needed)
  • 14 oz fresh or frozen udon noodles (shelf-stable works too)
  • 3 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 scallions, sliced thin (for topping)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine sliced steak with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Wash and dry spinach, mince garlic, thinly slice onion, and slice scallions. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions, drain, and rinse briefly under warm water.
  3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp neutral oil. Sear steak in a single layer for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. Remove steak to a plate.
  4. In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and (optional) white pepper. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add drained udon noodles and spinach to the sauce. Toss gently until noodles are coated and spinach wilts. If sauce is too thick, add up to 1/4 cup broth to loosen.
  7. Return seared steak and any juices to the pan. Toss to combine and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Divide into bowls. Top with extra cracked black pepper, sesame seeds, scallions, and a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use fresh garlic and grind black pepper fresh. Adjust the amount of pepper to your spice preference. Substitute chicken, tofu, or mushrooms for steak as desired. For a lighter or dairy-free version, use half-and-half or plant-based cream. Use tamari and gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free option. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak udon, creamy garlic noodles, Asian fusion, weeknight dinner, comfort food, noodle bowl, spinach, pepper steak, easy udon, garlic cream sauce