Are you a noodle lover looking for new and exciting flavors to spice up your meals? Look no further! We’ve got 18 delicious and flavorful noodle recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From spicy garlic butter noodles with shrimp to creamy mushroom and spinach pasta, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to make your taste buds dance.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these recipes have got you covered. Take a culinary journey around the world with dishes like Thai peanut noodles with chicken, garlic parmesan pasta with roasted vegetables, and Shanghai noodles with charred pork. Or stay closer to home with classic comfort foods like beef and broccoli lo mein, creamy tomato basil pasta, or lobster mac and cheese with truffle oil.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of noodles and explore the diverse flavors and textures that await you. So grab a fork and get ready to slurp your way through these 18 mouthwatering recipes!
Spicy Garlic Butter Noodles with Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and spicy dish that combines succulent shrimp, garlicky butter, and a kick of heat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodles (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1 tsp. spicy chili flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook noodles 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in chili flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine noodles, reserved pasta water, and spicy garlic butter mixture. Toss until well coated and heated through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the nutty flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 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 pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in a little oil over medium heat until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heat over low until smooth and creamy, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-spinach mixture, and creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodles with Chicken
This recipe combines the richness of peanut sauce with the spiciness of Thai chilies, all wrapped up in a delicious noodle dish. With the added protein of chicken, this meal is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, curry paste, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Add coconut milk and blend until combined.
4. Grill or sauté chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked noodles, chicken, and peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the savory goodness of roasted vegetables, all wrapped up in a garlicky pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add roasted vegetables to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil.
5. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture and toss to coat.
6. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and stir-fry everything together.
7. Combine the cooked noodles with the beef and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Pasta
A classic Italian dish gets a bright and citrusy twist with this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Pasta recipe. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, this dish combines succulent shrimp with tangy lemon, pungent garlic, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 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 and cook linguine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemon juice to skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Add cooked pasta to skillet, tossing to combine with lemon garlic sauce.
7. Return shrimp to skillet and toss with pasta to coat.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Pad Thai with Tofu
This recipe is a vegetarian twist on the classic Thai dish, featuring a variety of colorful vegetables, crispy tofu, and a tangy tamarind sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts, snow peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in tamarind paste, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked noodles and tofu to the pan. Toss everything together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Noodles with Chickpeas
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the comfort of noodles with the warmth of Indian-inspired curry flavors, all wrapped up with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles (rice or egg-based)
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer while noodles are cooking.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the curry sauce. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Noodles with Pork
Savor the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy noodle dish featuring tender pork and savory sauce. This recipe is a quick and easy way to experience the numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns and the richness of chili oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (preferably Soba or Rice Noodles)
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, cook pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, ginger paste, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add Szechuan peppercorns, chili oil, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the pork mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Italy – rich pesto sauce, al dente pasta, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes – to create a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Udon Stir-Fry with Beef
A spicy and savory fusion of Korean and Japanese flavors, this recipe combines the boldness of kimchi with the comforting warmth of udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 200g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 250g udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onions are translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in kimchi and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until flavors meld together.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the wok or frying pan. Toss with beef and kimchi mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A spicy twist on the classic comfort food, this recipe combines juicy Cajun chicken with creamy alfredo sauce and fettuccine pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken breasts, Cajun seasoning, garlic, and paprika. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
3. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked chicken and toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, Cajun chicken mixture, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sesame Ginger Noodles with Vegetables
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the spicy warmth of ginger to create a delicious and healthy noodle dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice 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 grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss with the vegetable mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
This classic Italian recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and basil with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, all on a bed of al dente pasta. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with sliced mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shanghai Noodles with Charred Pork
A flavorful and spicy Sichuan-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of charred pork, savory soy sauce, and tangy fermented bean paste, all wrapped up in a springy noodle bundle.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fermented bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup soybean paste (dòuchī)
– 8 oz Shanghai noodles
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or wok to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Add pork strips and toss to coat.
3. Char the pork for 5-7 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. In a separate pan, stir-fry garlic, ginger, fermented bean paste, and soybean paste in vegetable oil until fragrant.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Add cooked pork to the wok or pan with the sauce mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Combine cooked noodles and charred pork. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese with Truffle Oil
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent lobster mac and cheese, infused with the earthy richness of truffle oil. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lobster meat
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Add cooked lobster meat and truffle oil; season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with the lobster mixture and transfer to a baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Sesame Dressing
Beat the heat with this light and refreshing Japanese-inspired dish, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 200g soba noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds 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 sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add the cooked soba noodles to the dressing and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in just one pot! This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the brightness of fresh basil, and the creaminess of a rich sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot or skillet, combine olive oil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pot, tossing to coat with the sauce.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 delicious and flavorful noodle recipes! From spicy garlic butter noodles with shrimp to creamy mushroom and spinach pasta, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover mouthwatering dishes like Thai peanut noodles with chicken, garlic parmesan pasta with roasted vegetables, beef and broccoli lo mein, and more. With a mix of classic comfort foods and international twists, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy or light and fresh, there’s a noodle dish waiting for you.