Noodles are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and it’s easy to see why. They’re versatile, delicious, and can be paired with a wide variety of ingredients to create a diverse range of dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and savory or light and refreshing, there’s a noodle recipe out there for you. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful noodle recipes that are perfect for every occasion, from quick weeknight meals to special celebrations.
From classic combinations like beef and broccoli lo mein to innovative twists like kimchi ramen with soft-boiled egg, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your noodles, get cooking, and let’s dig in!
Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, spicy garlic noodles, and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup spicy garlic sauce (such as gochujang)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a wok or large skillet, combine garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and spicy garlic sauce. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked noodles to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce.
5. Divide noodles among plates, top with shrimp, and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Ramen
This recipe combines the rich flavors of mushrooms and creamy sauce with the comfort of a warm bowl of ramen noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked noodles and mushroom mixture. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
This refreshing Thai-inspired salad combines sweet and savory flavors with a crunchy texture. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s also great as a healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, peanut sauce, peanuts, bell pepper, and cucumber.
4. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking noodles)
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
This recipe combines the flavors of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory lo mein noodles for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef strips to skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked lo mein noodles with beef and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry Udon
Quickly cook your favorite vegetables with chewy udon noodles and savory soy sauce for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles (8 oz)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup of broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the mixed bell peppers and broccoli. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked udon noodles with the vegetable mixture and stir-fry until well combined.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Kimchi Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
Combine the spicy kick of Korean kimchi with the comforting warmth of Japanese ramen, and top it off with a runny soft-boiled egg. This unique fusion dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of kimchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 soft-boiled egg, sliced
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the kimchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the soy sauce to the kimchi mixture and stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked ramen noodles to the pot and toss to coat with the kimchi-soy mixture.
5. Top the ramen with sliced soft-boiled egg and green onions (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta
Brighten up your pasta dish with the zesty combination of lemon, garlic, and butter. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine with the garlic and butter mixture. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon-garlic sauce.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Soy Soba Noodles
A flavorful and nutritious Asian-inspired dish that combines the nutty taste of sesame with the savory umami of soy sauce, all wrapped up in a bowl of chewy soba noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add grated ginger and minced garlic; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, and sugar. Add cooked noodles and toss to combine.
4. Pour the sesame-ginger mixture over the noodles and toss again to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Tofu
This classic Thai dish gets a vegan twist with the addition of crispy tofu, wok-fried to perfection and tossed with sweet and sour flavors. A flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, peas)
– 1/2 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add remaining ingredients except tamarind paste to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add tamarind paste and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles, tofu, and sauce mixture in a large bowl.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with peanuts and lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Chow Mein
Get ready to savor a flavorful Chinese-American classic with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups cooked noodles (chow mein style)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; stir-fry until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for another minute.
5. Return chicken to the pan; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tom Yum Noodle Soup
Satisfy your cravings with this classic Thai dish, featuring a flavorful broth and springy noodles. This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons Tom Yum paste
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in stock, water, and Tom Yum paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired. Offer lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce
Beat the heat with this simple and satisfying recipe that combines the smoothness of cold soba noodles with a savory dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions, then immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking. Let cool completely.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and grated ginger to make the dipping sauce.
3. Once noodles are cooled, drain and rinse with cold water.
4. Divide noodles among bowls or containers for serving.
5. Serve chilled noodles with dipping sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for soba noodles)
Japchae (Korean Glass Noodles)
Japchae is a popular Korean dish made with stir-fried glass noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood. This recipe yields a flavorful and savory Japchae that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup diced zucchini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 100g your choice of meat or seafood (e.g., beef, chicken, or shrimp)
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
4. Add spinach, bean sprouts, carrots, and zucchini; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked glass noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using meat or seafood, add it now and stir-fry until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dan Dan Noodles
A classic Chinese dish from the Sichuan province, Dan Dan Noodles is a flavorful and spicy stir-fry noodle dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe brings together savory ground pork, tangy fermented soybean paste, and crunchy sesame seeds to create a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt to taste
– 8 ounces noodles
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, doubanjiang, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Serve noodles with the pork mixture and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Noodles with Vegetables
Transform your noodles into a flavorful and nutritious meal with the warm, comforting aroma of coconut curry. This recipe combines the comfort of classic noodles with the vibrant colors and textures of mixed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodle of choice (rice, quinoa, or egg)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 1 medium onion
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz.)
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Stir in curry powder and coconut milk. Simmer for 5 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked noodles with vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish combines the flavors of basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce until well coated.
5. Add halved cherry tomatoes and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Singapore Noodles with Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of Singaporean cuisine with this spicy and savory noodle dish, featuring succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; stir-fry until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cumin, and cayenne pepper. Pour mixture into the wok or skillet; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add noodles to the wok or skillet; stir-fry until well combined with the shrimp and sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Miso Ramen
Get ready to warm up with this flavorful Spicy Miso Ramen recipe, perfect for a cozy night in. This dish combines the rich flavors of miso paste and spicy chili flakes with tender noodles and savory pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and pork, cooking until the pork is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, miso paste, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the comfort of al dente noodles. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic mixture. Toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the noodles and toss again to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lo Mein with Crispy Tofu
Get ready to experience the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors in this Vegetable Lo Mein with Crispy Tofu recipe. This quick and easy meal is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked noodles to the skillet and stir-fry until combined with vegetables and sauce.
6. Return crispy tofu to the skillet and stir-fry until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 flavorful noodle recipes! From classic Chinese lo mein and Japanese soba noodles, to spicy Thai peanut noodle salads and creamy coconut curry noodles, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, vegetables, or a hearty beef and broccoli dish, this collection has got you covered. With options for every occasion, from quick weeknight meals to special occasions and parties, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
