When it comes to cooking, noodles are a staple ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from comforting soups and stews to flavorful stir-fries and salads. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy, or savory, there’s a noodle recipe out there to satisfy your cravings. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring 20 delicious noodle recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic pasta dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, to international favorites like Pad Thai and Singapore Noodles, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, our Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Beef or Cold Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce are great options.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes in detail, providing step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and tips for customization. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, we hope to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and try something new.
Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp
A flavorful and spicy take on classic garlic noodles, this recipe adds succulent shrimp to create a mouth-watering meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Thyme
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the warmth of thyme, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with mushroom sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodles with Tofu
Satisfy your cravings with this flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the spiciness of Thai chilies. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp coconut milk
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, ginger, curry paste, and cumin. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked noodles to the sauce and toss to combine.
5. Return tofu to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Chow Mein Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese stir-fry recipe is a staple of Chinese-American cuisine, made with tender beef, crispy vegetables, and savory soy sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots, scallions)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked chow mein noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a wok or large skillet over high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve beef and vegetable mixture over cooked chow mein noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Noodles
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the zesty essence of lemon, richness of butter, and pungency of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta cooking water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add cooked noodles to the saucepan, tossing to combine with the lemon butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lo Mein with Sesame Oil
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of any stir-fry enthusiast’s repertoire. With a medley of colorful vegetables and a nutty sesame oil finish, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the wok. Stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
This Korean-inspired ramen recipe combines the creamy richness of soft-boiled eggs, the spicy kick of kimchi, and the comforting warmth of a hearty noodle bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of kimchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 soft-boiled eggs
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the kimchi and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Soft-boil the eggs by placing them in a saucepan filled with cold water, bringing to a boil, then reducing the heat and letting sit for 6-7 minutes.
4. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the kimchi pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Slice the soft-boiled eggs into wedges and add them on top of the noodle bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Chicken and Peanuts
This classic Thai dish combines the flavors of savory chicken, crunchy peanuts, and spicy tamarind sauce with a stir-fry of rice noodles. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed peanuts
– 2 cups bean sprouts
– 1 cup tamarind sauce (or substitute with a mixture of equal parts water and soy sauce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add peanuts and bean sprouts; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Pour in tamarind sauce and stir to combine with chicken mixture.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the chicken mixture; stir-fry for about 2 minutes, or until noodles are well coated with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Noodles with Vegetables
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the warmth of coconut milk with the spices of Indian curry, served over a bed of noodles and colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the curry sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce
Beat the heat with this quick and easy Japanese-inspired dish. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 200g soba noodles
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Combine cooked soba noodles and dipping sauce in a large bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Udon Noodle Soup with Tempura
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Japanese-inspired goodness, featuring tender udon noodles and crispy tempura bits.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 cups of dashi broth (or chicken/vegetable stock)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, and button), sliced
– 1 cup of tempura bits (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat dashi broth over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, and tempura bits to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach
Add a rich and savory twist to your pasta dish with this garlic parmesan recipe, featuring wilted spinach for an extra nutritional boost. This quick and easy dinner is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (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 sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic butter.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork
Dan Dan noodles are a popular Chinese street food dish that combines spicy ground pork with a savory sauce, served over a bed of noodles. This recipe adds a twist by using ground pork instead of traditional ground beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 8 ounces noodles (such as lo mein or chow mein)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve the ground pork mixture over the cooked noodles.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Singapore Noodles with Curry Powder
Experience the bold flavors of Singaporean cuisine with this simple and delicious noodle dish, infused with the warmth of curry powder.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (rice or egg-based)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves 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, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add mixed vegetables and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Return noodles to the wok or skillet; toss to combine with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a classic comfort food – homemade chicken noodle soup! This simple recipe yields a flavorful and soothing broth packed with tender chicken, veggies, and soft noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the veggies are tender.
2. Add the broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the noodles and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they’re soft and fluffy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
A classic Italian recipe that combines the simplicity of garlic and olive oil with a spicy kick from chili flakes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Beef
Quickly cooked beef and rice noodles come together in a savory and satisfying stir-fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the best of Asian flavors with ease of preparation.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef; cook until browned, 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, 1 minute.
4. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef to pan; stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the beef mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes to create a quick and easy summer pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto sauce over medium-low heat.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tomatoes start to release their juices.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Sesame Ginger Noodle Salad combines the creaminess of noodles with the crunch of sesame seeds and the warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp. grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced red bell peppers, shredded carrots, or diced cooked chicken
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, sesame-ginger mixture, chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and diced cucumber.
4. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cheesy Baked Macaroni with Bacon
A comforting twist on the classic mac ‘n cheese, this recipe adds crispy bacon and a crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked bacon, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
6. Transfer macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top of the macaroni.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to slurp up a world of flavor! This collection of 20 noodle recipes has something for every occasion. From spicy garlic noodles with shrimp to creamy mushroom pasta with thyme, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian-inspired flavors or classic comfort food, there’s a recipe here that’s just right. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the delicious world of noodles!
