Are you looking for a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than udon noodles! These thick, chewy Japanese noodles are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of ingredients to create delicious dishes. From spicy stir-fries to comforting soups, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering udon noodle recipes to inspire your next meal.
From classic combinations like Spicy Garlic Butter Udon Noodles and Creamy Mushroom Udon Stir-Fry, to more adventurous options like Teriyaki Chicken Udon Bowl and Vegetable Tempura Udon Soup, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired flavors or looking for a comforting bowl of noodles to warm up your meal, we’ve got you covered.
In the following article, we’ll dive into each of these 18 udon noodle recipes, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and tips you need to make them shine. So grab your wok or pot, get ready to cook up a storm, and let’s get started!
Spicy Garlic Butter Udon Noodles
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional udon noodles, this recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the heat of Korean chili flakes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in Gochujang, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter sauce until well coated.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Udon Stir-Fry
This comforting stir-fry combines the richness of mushrooms with the creaminess of a savory sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious and chewy udon noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, garlic, and butter; cook until mushrooms are tender and fragrant (3-4 minutes).
3. Add soy sauce and heavy cream; stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked udon noodles with the mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Udon Bowl
This recipe combines the savory flavors of teriyaki chicken with the comforting warmth of udon noodles and crunchy vegetables, all in a single bowl. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the teriyaki sauce to the chicken and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. To assemble the bowls, place cooked udon noodles in the bottom, followed by the teriyaki chicken mixture and vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Tempura Udon Soup
This Japanese-inspired soup combines comforting udon noodles with crispy vegetable tempura and a savory broth, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 cups of vegetable oil
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1/2 cup of tempura batter mix
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Sliced green onions and grated daikon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the tempura vegetables by cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Mix with tempura batter mix and coat evenly.
3. Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the tempura mixture in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a large pot, combine broth, soy sauce, and cooked udon noodles. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add fried tempura vegetables to the soup and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and grated daikon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Udon Stir-Fry
A flavorful and satisfying stir-fry dish that combines the richness of beef and broccoli with the comforting warmth of udon noodles. This recipe is a quick and easy weeknight option for any Asian food lover.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cooked udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon 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 strips 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; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles with the beef and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Udon Noodles
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the chewy texture of udon noodles, all wrapped up in a flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Pour into the wok or skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked udon noodles with the peanut sauce mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi and Pork Udon Stir-Fry
This Korean-inspired stir-fry combines the bold flavors of kimchi with tender pork and chewy udon noodles, creating a harmonious balance of spicy, savory, and sweet.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup kimchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the kimchi and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
4. Add the cooked pork, udon noodles, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 1-2 minutes, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Udon with Tofu
Discover the perfect blend of Japanese flavors with this comforting curry udon dish featuring tender tofu and a rich, aromatic curry sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add tofu and cook until golden brown (3-4 minutes); remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Return tofu to the pan and cook until sauce thickens slightly (2-3 minutes).
6. Combine cooked udon noodles with curry sauce and tofu. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Udon in Miso Broth
Savor the flavors of Japan with this hearty and comforting seafood udon noodle dish, infused with the rich umami taste of miso broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine water, miso paste, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add seafood to the broth and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the seafood and miso broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Sesame Udon Noodles
A sweet and savory take on traditional Japanese udon noodles, this recipe combines the richness of sesame with the stickiness of honey and soy sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon 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 honey and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the toasted sesame seeds and scallions (if using). Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Combine the cooked udon noodles with the sticky sesame sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Miso Udon with Ground Pork
A hearty and flavorful Japanese-inspired dish that combines the richness of miso paste with the spicy kick of gochujang, all wrapped up in a springy udon noodle. This Spicy Miso Udon with Ground Pork is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, gochujang, miso paste, vegetable broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the pork and sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon Carbonara with Bacon
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy Udon Carbonara featuring crispy bacon and a rich egg sauce. This Japanese-Italian fusion dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked noodles and cooked bacon to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked through and the sauce is creamy (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Coconut Udon Soup
A flavorful and comforting soup that combines the warmth of lemongrass, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the springiness of udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup udon noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add lemongrass, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and udon noodles; cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are al dente.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Chili Shrimp Udon
Sweet Chili Shrimp Udon Recipe
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with sweet chili sauce and chewy udon noodles, creating a harmonious balance of spicy and savory flavors. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 8 oz udon noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and water. Pour the mixture into the wok or skillet.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the sweet chili sauce mixture and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon Noodle Salad with Ginger Dressing
This refreshing salad combines chewy udon noodles with crunchy vegetables, all tied together with a zesty ginger dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, carrots, bell pepper, and scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked udon noodles and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Hot and Sour Udon Soup
A savory and spicy soup that combines the flavors of Japan with a hint of Korean chili flakes, this Hot and Sour Udon Soup is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich broth, chewy udon noodles, and variety of vegetables, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1/2 cup of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of water
– 1 teaspoon of 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. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and chili flakes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Udon with Black Bean Sauce
Udon noodles are a staple in Japanese cuisine, and when paired with a rich black bean sauce, they become a flavor-packed meal. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of udon with the bold taste of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in black beans, soy sauce, sake (or wine), and ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet and toss with the black bean sauce until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Scallion Oil Udon Noodles
These udon noodles are elevated by a rich garlic scallion oil, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add thinly sliced scallions to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Toss to coat.
5. Pour the garlic scallion oil over the noodles and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and flavorful udon noodle recipes to spice up your meal routine? Look no further! This collection of 18 mouthwatering recipes offers something for every occasion. From spicy and savory options like Garlic Butter Udon Noodles and Kimchi and Pork Udon Stir-Fry, to creamy and comforting choices like Creamy Mushroom Udon Stir-Fry and Curry Udon with Tofu, there’s a recipe to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for something Asian-inspired or international, these udon noodle recipes are sure to please.