Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and quality to fit your busy schedule? Look no further! Noodles are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and when done right, can be a quick and satisfying meal option. In this article, we’ll explore 18 easy simple noodle recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a convenient meal solution, noodles can be your best friend. And with our collection of simple yet flavorful recipes, you’ll never have to settle for a bland or unappetizing meal again.
Garlic Butter Noodles with Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter, pungency of garlic, and nuttiness of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and refreshing Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad! Crunchy noodles, savory peanuts, and a kick of heat from the sriracha make for a perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
3. Add the cooked noodles, peanuts, cucumber, bell peppers, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Noodles
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon garlic sauce and served over a bed of noodles, making for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 ounces pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add lemon juice and stir to combine with garlic and oil residue.
6. Toss cooked noodles with lemon garlic sauce and serve with cooked shrimp on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Teriyaki Noodle Stir-Fry
A flavorful and speedy dinner option that combines the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with tender noodles and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked noodles (any type)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
5. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with vegetables.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then add cooked noodles to the skillet.
7. Stir-fry everything together until noodles are well coated with sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of avocado with the comfort of pasta, creating a unique and tasty dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the diced avocado to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and creamy avocado sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lo Mein with Soy Sauce
A classic Chinese dish, Vegetable Lo Mein is a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry made with a variety of vegetables, noodles, and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry until they are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Noodles
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of Thai curry, all wrapped up in a satisfying noodle dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet or wok. Toss to combine with the curry sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Sesame Noodles with Green Onions
Quickly whip up a delicious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the nutty taste of sesame oil with the crunch of green onions.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba or rice noodles
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (about 4-6 green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp soy sauce for added depth of flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped green onions and minced garlic; stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet; toss with the green onion mixture until well combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Noodles
Savor the flavors of Italy with this creamy and satisfying one-pot dish, featuring chicken, fettuccine noodles, and a rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring chicken broth, butter, garlic, and basil to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add fettuccine noodles; cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add chicken breasts; cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
This spicy ramen recipe combines the comforting warmth of Japanese noodles with the richness of a soft-boiled egg and the kick of chili flakes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute.
4. Crack egg into the pot and cook until whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
5. Add cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine with egg and vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, chili peppers, and savory noodles for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish to complement your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chili oil (or more to taste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the garlic and chili oil over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked noodles and toss to coat with the garlic-chili mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Pad Thai with Rice Noodles
A classic Thai dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe will have you enjoying a delicious Pad Thai in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (beansprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 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 onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables, cooked chicken or tofu, tamarind paste, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles to the wok; stir-fry for another minute to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a perfect summer treat that combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and basil with the creaminess of mozzarella. With only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is quick, easy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Add the chopped basil leaves and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Vegetables
A quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that combines chewy udon noodles with colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened (2-3 minutes).
4. Add bell pepper, broccoli, and mushrooms; stir-fry for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return cooked noodles to the skillet; stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Macaroni with Ground Beef
This hearty dish is a staple of many households, and for good reason – the combination of al dente pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy cheese sauce is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce; stir until well coated.
7. Transfer pasta to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce
Beat the heat with this simple and delicious recipe for cold soba noodles served with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Japanese-inspired dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 200g soba noodles
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the cooked soba noodles to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lime Cilantro Noodles with Grilled Chicken
A refreshing twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines the brightness of lime and cilantro with the smokiness of grilled chicken. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces noodles (such as rice noodles or soba)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
6. Toss cooked noodles with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
7. Slice grilled chicken into strips and serve over noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Egg Noodles with Brown Butter Sauce
This classic recipe elevates humble egg noodles to new heights with a rich and nutty brown butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in 1/4 cup of reserved pasta cooking liquid to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
4. Add the cooked egg noodles to the brown butter sauce and toss to combine, ensuring the noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 18 easy and simple noodle recipes! From classic comfort food to international flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Noodles with Parmesan, Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad, or Lemon Garlic Shrimp Noodles. Or, if you’re short on time, whip up a Quick Teriyaki Noodle Stir-Fry or Creamy Avocado Pasta. Whatever your taste buds crave, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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