Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner? Look no further! Noodles are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and they can be paired with a wide variety of flavors and ingredients to create a tasty and satisfying dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy, savory, or sweet, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious noodle recipes that are perfect for weeknights. From classic comfort foods like garlic parmesan ramen and chicken alfredo fettuccine, to international flavors like Thai peanut noodle salad and Korean-style kimchi udon stir fry, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Spicy Garlic Butter Noodles
This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the bold flavors of garlic, butter, and spices, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the red pepper flakes and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic-butter sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Rich and flavorful, this creamy mushroom pasta dish is a comforting treat that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cooked pasta, thyme, salt, and pepper. Combine well.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the crunch of noodles and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed veggies, cooked noodles, and chopped peanuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and grated ginger until smooth.
4. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Chow Mein
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of many takeout menus, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With its savory beef and vegetables, served over crispy noodles, Beef Chow Mein is a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1 cup cooked noodles
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
3. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return beef to the wok or skillet. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve beef mixture over cooked noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lo Mein
A classic Chinese dish, Vegetable Lo Mein is a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines lo mein noodles with a variety of colorful vegetables. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Ramen
Elevate your ramen game with this creamy, savory, and aromatic dish that combines the best of Italian and Japanese flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons of garlic butter (softened)
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cooked ramen noodles to the pot and stir until coated with the sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Shrimp
Pad Thai, a classic Thai dish, combines sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors with the perfect balance of textures. This recipe adds succulent shrimp to the mix for an extra boost of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled large shrimp
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and shrimp; cook until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
3. Add mixed vegetables, tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, fish sauce, and white pepper. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Soba Noodles
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of sesame with the spicy kick of ginger, perfectly balanced on a bed of tender soba noodles. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add grated ginger and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey until well combined. Pour into the pan and stir to combine with the ginger mixture.
5. Add cooked soba noodles to the pan and toss to coat with the sesame-ginger sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of chicken, fettuccine noodles, and Parmesan cheese with a hint of garlic and nutmeg. A comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine, chicken, and creamy sauce. Toss until well coated, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kimchi Udon Stir Fry
Spice up your meal with this bold and flavorful Kimchi Udon Stir Fry recipe! With the tanginess of kimchi and the springiness of udon noodles, this dish is a perfect combination of Korean and Japanese flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup udon noodles
– 2 cups kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the kimchi and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the cooked udon noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi
This recipe is a flavorful and quick-cooking take on the classic scampi dish, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a tangy lemon-garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet; toss to coat with the sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegetable Pad See Ew
This classic Chinese stir-fry dish is a staple of Singaporean cuisine, with a medley of colorful vegetables cooked in a savory sauce and served over rice noodles. Quick and easy to prepare, Vegetable Pad See Ew makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g vegetable mix (beansprouts, carrots, cabbage)
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons fermented bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and stir-fry for 10 seconds.
4. Add vegetable mix, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and doubanjiang. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the vegetable mixture over cooked rice noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Miso Ramen
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this Spicy Miso Ramen recipe, featuring a rich and creamy miso paste, spicy kick from gochujang, and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 2 teaspoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, miso paste, gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked noodles to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Noodles
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the warm, aromatic flavors of Indian-inspired curry spices. The result is a comforting and satisfying noodle dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 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 leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Add cooked noodles and stir until coated with the curry sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect combination of Asian-inspired flavors and textures, featuring noodles, vegetables, and a savory sesame sauce. It’s an easy and healthy side dish or light lunch that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (cucumber, carrots, bell peppers, scallions)
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
4. Pour the sesame sauce over the vegetables and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the sweet, chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the pesto over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pesto and stir to combine.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the pesto mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Savor the flavors of this classic Chinese dish with a twist! This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein recipe combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory noodles for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups lo mein noodles
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 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. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef to pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked noodles with beef and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tom Yum Noodle Soup
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this classic Tom Yum Noodle Soup recipe. This spicy and sour soup is a staple in Thai cuisine, made with a flavorful broth, noodles, and your choice of protein.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tom yum paste
– 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon palm sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup cooked chicken or shrimp, diced
– 1/2 cup rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, water, tom yum paste, fish sauce (if using), palm sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
4. Add noodles and cooked chicken or shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
Get ready to spice up your noodles with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the pungency of garlic, the heat of chili flakes, and the savory goodness of oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodles (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Stir in the chili flakes and cook for an additional minute, taking care not to burn the mixture.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the garlic-chili oil mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles!
Teriyaki Chicken Ramen
A flavorful and comforting bowl of noodles, Teriyaki Chicken Ramen is a popular Japanese dish that combines the richness of teriyaki sauce with the warmth of chicken broth. This recipe is quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, whisk together teriyaki sauce ingredients (soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, and ginger). Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles to the skillet and toss with chicken and teriyaki sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 delicious noodle recipes! From classic comfort foods like Garlic Parmesan Ramen and Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine, to international flavors like Thai Peanut Noodle Salad and Korean-inspired Kimchi Udon Stir Fry, there’s something for everyone. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in no time. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy or savory, these noodles will hit the spot.
