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Tinned Fish Garlic Noodles

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Tinned Fish Garlic Noodles are a quick and flavorful pasta dish made with sardines, garlic, Parmesan cheese, crispy fried bread, and spaghetti. This comforting pantry-friendly recipe delivers rich savory flavor with a silky sauce and crunchy texture, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 can (4.2 ounces) sardines in olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley, divided
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cups torn French bread or Italian bread, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 8 ounces dry spaghetti
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the sardines with their oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, half of the parsley, and olive oil. Mash with a fork into a coarse paste and refrigerate until ready to use.
  2. Add the torn bread pieces to a large skillet and drizzle with olive oil, reserving 1 tablespoon for later. Sprinkle with salt.
  3. Cook the bread over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking until the bread is crispy on the outside and slightly chewy inside.
  5. Add the reserved tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Stir for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Remove bread from skillet and set aside.
  6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Reserve pasta water.
  7. Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the sardine mixture. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds once bubbling.
  8. Transfer the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sardine mixture.
  9. Toss the noodles over low heat until evenly coated.
  10. Add about 1/4 cup pasta water and stir well. Add additional pasta water if needed for a creamier sauce.
  11. Turn off the heat and stir in the remaining parsley, Parmesan cheese, and half of the fried bread pieces.
  12. Serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan cheese, parsley, and remaining crispy bread.

Notes

  • Sardines packed in olive oil provide the best flavor and richness.
  • Linguine, fettuccine, or penne can replace spaghetti.
  • Add lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
  • Spinach or kale can be added for extra greens.
  • Pecorino Romano cheese works well as a substitute for Parmesan.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.
  • For best texture, prepare extra fried bread fresh before serving.

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