20 Delicious Noodle Recipes for Every Occasion

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April 4, 2025

When it comes to noodles, there’s no shortage of options. From Asian-inspired dishes to classic comfort foods, noodles are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and savory or light and refreshing, there’s a noodle recipe out there that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious noodle recipes, each one more mouthwatering than the last. From creamy pasta dishes to stir-fried rice noodles, we’ve got everything covered. So grab your favorite ingredients and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!

Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp

Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, spicy garlic, and perfectly cooked noodles.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. linguine noodles
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook linguine 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 minced 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. Stir in soy sauce, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Toss cooked noodles with garlic and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and creamy sauce in this comforting pasta dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 tender, 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.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and creamy mushroom sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Thai Peanut Noodle Salad

Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
This Thai-inspired salad combines the richness of peanut sauce with the crunch of fresh vegetables, all wrapped up in a bed of soft noodles. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, mixed vegetables, and cilantro.
4. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Beef Chow Mein

Beef Chow Mein
A classic Chinese dish that combines tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and savory noodles, Beef Chow Mein is a quick and satisfying meal for any time of the day. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound 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)
– 2 cups cooked noodles (chow mein or soba)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining oil and stir-fry onion and garlic for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef to the wok and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the beef mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Vegetable Lo Mein

Vegetable Lo Mein
A classic Chinese-inspired dish, this Vegetable Lo Mein is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s quick to prepare and delicious to eat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook lo mein 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; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked lo mein noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pad Thai with Tofu

Pad Thai with Tofu
This classic Southeast Asian dish gets a vegetarian twist by adding pan-seared tofu to the mix of sweet and sour flavors. With its harmonious blend of tamarind, fish sauce, palm sugar, and soy sauce, this Pad Thai recipe is a must-try for tofu lovers!

Ingredients:

– 1/2 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, green onions)
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
– 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 tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, and fish sauce (or alternative). Bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked noodles, tofu, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Japanese Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg

Japanese Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
This classic Japanese noodle dish is a staple of comfort food, and adding a soft-boiled egg takes it to the next level. With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious and satisfying bowl of ramen in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1 soft-boiled egg, sliced
– Chopped green onions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
3. Add cooked noodles to the broth mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Slice the soft-boiled egg and place on top of the noodles.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and bean sprouts if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Garlic Butter Noodles with Parmesan

Garlic Butter Noodles with Parmesan
This recipe yields a rich and creamy noodle dish perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and aromatic side dish in no time.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
3. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic butter sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the noodles and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Kimchi Udon Stir-Fry

Kimchi Udon Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comforting warmth of udon noodles, creating a deliciously spicy and savory stir-fry.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz udon noodles
– 1/2 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat

Instructions:

1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in kimchi and cooked udon noodles. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Cook for an additional minute, allowing flavors to meld together.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes

Lemon Garlic Pasta with Chicken

Lemon Garlic Pasta with Chicken
Brighten up your pasta night with this zesty and flavorful recipe featuring chicken, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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 olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
4. Stir in lemon juice and dried basil. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring pasta is well coated with the lemon-garlic sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Sesame Soba Noodles

Sesame Soba Noodles
Experience the harmony of nutty sesame and springy soba noodles in this easy-to-make Japanese-inspired dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 200g soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

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 garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add cooked soba noodles to the pan and toss until well coated with the sesame sauce.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Singapore Noodles with Curry Powder

Singapore Noodles with Curry Powder
This recipe brings together the flavors of Singapore’s street food scene, combining curry powder with classic noodles. This dish is a perfect blend of spicy, sour, and sweet notes that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:
• 200g thin rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped scallions for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. 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 and curry powder. Stir-fry for 2 minutes, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute to combine flavors.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Tom Yum Noodle Soup

Tom Yum Noodle Soup
This classic Thai soup is a flavorful and spicy treat that’s easy to make and packed with noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious bowl of Tom Yum ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup tom yum paste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Your choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu, or none)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, 2-3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in broth, coconut milk, tom yum paste, and white pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Add your choice of protein (if using) and cook until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with cilantro.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Cold Somen Noodles with Dipping Sauce

Cold Somen Noodles with Dipping Sauce
Beat the heat with this simple and delicious Japanese-inspired dish. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack, cold somen noodles paired with a savory dipping sauce are sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 200g somen noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook somen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, ginger, and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the cooked somen noodles to the dipping sauce and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish combines the creamy richness of pesto sauce with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a deliciously simple pasta recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes and pesto sauce. Heat over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the tomato-pesto mixture.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork

Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork
This classic Chinese dish combines tender ground pork with a savory and spicy sauce, served over a bed of springy noodles. With its bold flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 8 oz noodles (preferably lo mein or rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch mixture, sesame oil, ginger paste, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together chili bean paste and 2 tablespoons of water. Add the mixture to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the ground pork mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Vegetables

Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Vegetables
This quick and easy stir-fry recipe combines the flavors of rice noodles, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce to create a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cooked rice noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs

Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this simple recipe that adds a satisfying crunch from crispy breadcrumbs on top. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– Optional: chopped herbs (parsley, thyme) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to make a roux (about 1 minute).
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Vietnamese Pho with Beef

Vietnamese Pho with Beef
Pho, a popular Vietnamese noodle soup, is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses beef broth as the base, accompanied by tender slices of beef, soft noodles, and an assortment of fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef bones (such as oxtail or beef neck)
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 pound rice noodles
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs: basil, mint, cilantro (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large stockpot, combine beef bones, onion, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
2. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add sliced beef to the pot and cook for another 30 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble pho by placing noodles into bowls, followed by slices of beef and broth.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges.

Cooking Time: approximately 2 hours (including simmering time)

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
This recipe is a spicy twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, featuring garlic, chili flakes, and olive oil. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 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.
3. Add sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. Add red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with garlic and chili mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to slurp your way through this diverse collection of noodle recipes! From spicy shrimp noodles to creamy mushroom pasta, there’s something for every occasion. This list includes international favorites like Thai peanut noodle salad and Japanese ramen, as well as comfort food classics like mac and cheese with crispy breadcrumbs. You’ll also find vegetarian and vegan options like vegetable lo mein and sesame soba noodles. And for a savory twist, try garlic butter noodles with parmesan or kimchi udon stir-fry. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, these 20 delicious noodle recipes have got you covered.

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