10 Easy Simple Noodle Recipes

You might think mastering noodle dishes requires years of culinary training, but that's not entirely true. Whether you're craving Italian comfort food or Asian-inspired flavors, you'll find these 10 recipes transform simple ingredients into restaurant-worthy meals. From a 15-minute sesame noodle dish to a foolproof mac and cheese, each recipe teaches you essential techniques while keeping the process straightforward. Stay tuned to discover how your pantry staples can unlock a world of noodle possibilities.

Classic Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti

Classic Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti is one of the simplest yet most satisfying Italian pasta dishes, known in Italy as "Aglio e Olio." This traditional recipe relies on quality ingredients and proper technique to transform basic components into a flavorful meal that can be prepared in minutes.

The key to this dish lies in properly cooking the garlic to a golden brown and creating an emulsion with the pasta water and olive oil. While the ingredient list is minimal, the result is a perfect balance of garlic, olive oil, and pasta that has been beloved in Italian households for generations.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 6 large cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, slice the garlic and heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the oil, cooking until the garlic turns light golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and oil, tossing to combine. Add the reserved pasta water gradually while stirring to create a silky sauce. Mix in the parsley, salt, and pepper, continuing to toss until the pasta is well coated and the sauce has slightly thickened.

For best results, use good quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic, as these are the primary flavors of the dish. Never allow the garlic to burn as it will become bitter and ruin the entire dish. The pasta water is crucial for creating the proper sauce consistency, so don't skip this step – the starch in the water helps emulsify the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta.

15-Minute Asian Sesame Noodles

Minute Asian Sesame Noodles is a quick and satisfying dish that combines the nutty flavor of sesame with tender noodles and fresh vegetables. This versatile recipe can be served hot or cold, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The key to this dish lies in its perfectly balanced sauce, which combines toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness. While traditional recipes might call for longer preparation times, this version delivers authentic Asian flavors in just minutes without compromising taste.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz Chinese egg noodles or spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. While the noodles cook, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and ginger in a large bowl. Drain the noodles and immediately toss them in the sauce mixture while still hot.

Add the green onions, carrots, bean sprouts, and cilantro to the noodles. Toss everything together until well combined and garnish with toasted sesame seeds. The entire dish comes together in about 15 minutes, making it perfect for quick meals.

For best results, use fresh noodles if available, and don't overcook them as they'll continue to soften slightly in the hot sauce. The dish can be customized with additional vegetables or protein, and leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. If serving cold, consider making extra sauce as the noodles tend to absorb more liquid when chilled.

Creamy One-Pot Mac and Cheese

Creamy One-Pot Mac and Cheese transforms the classic comfort food into an effortless weeknight meal. This simplified version eliminates the need for a separate cheese sauce and multiple pots, creating less cleanup while maintaining the rich, velvety texture everyone loves.

The key to this recipe's success lies in cooking the pasta directly in milk, allowing the starches to release and create a natural thickening agent. Combined with carefully selected cheeses and a few basic seasonings, this method produces a luxuriously smooth mac and cheese that rivals traditional baked versions.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
• 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Pour milk and water into a large pot and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add macaroni, salt, and butter, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced significantly.

Remove pot from heat and add cream cheese, stirring until melted. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth. Mix in black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.

For best results, grate cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties, as packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in warm milk until reaching desired consistency. The dish is best served immediately, as the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles

Spicy peanut butter noodles combine the rich, creamy texture of peanut butter with the satisfying chewiness of noodles, creating a comforting dish that's both filling and flavorful. The sauce's combination of heat from chili paste, tanginess from rice vinegar, and sweetness from brown sugar creates a complex flavor profile that coats each noodle perfectly.

This versatile dish works well with various types of noodles, from traditional Chinese egg noodles to linguine or spaghetti. While the base recipe is vegetarian-friendly, it can easily be customized with protein additions like tofu, chicken, or shrimp to create a more substantial meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz noodles (egg noodles or spaghetti)
• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (sambal oelek)
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. While the noodles cook, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chili paste in a bowl. Add warm water gradually while whisking until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Drain the cooked noodles and return them to the pot. Pour the peanut sauce over the hot noodles and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the noodle cooking water to achieve desired consistency. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts, and lime wedges.

For best results, avoid refrigerating the peanut butter sauce before mixing with noodles, as cold peanut butter will be difficult to incorporate smoothly. If the finished dish becomes too thick upon standing, simply add a small amount of warm water and toss to loosen the sauce. The sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored at room temperature in an airtight container.

Quick Vegetable Lo Mein

Quick Vegetable Lo Mein is a versatile Chinese-inspired noodle dish that combines tender egg noodles with crisp vegetables in a savory sauce. This vegetarian version can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute meals.

The key to successful lo mein lies in the balance of textures and the rich umami flavor of the sauce. While traditional lo mein often includes meat, this vegetable version delivers complete satisfaction through a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked noodles.

• 8 oz egg noodles or lo mein noodles
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, snow peas, bell peppers)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. While the noodles cook, prepare the sauce by combining soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.

Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat, then add garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the vegetables in order of cooking time: carrots first, followed by mushrooms, bell peppers, and finally snow peas and cabbage.

Add the cooked noodles to the wok and pour the sauce over everything. Toss all ingredients together using tongs or two large spoons until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Season with black pepper and additional soy sauce if needed.

For best results, prepare all vegetables before starting to cook and have them ready beside the stove. The noodles can be cooked ahead of time and tossed with a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. If the noodles seem dry during final tossing, add a splash of the noodle cooking water to help the sauce coat everything evenly.

Basic Buttered Egg Noodles

Basic buttered egg noodles are a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. The simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for busy weeknights, yet its satisfying flavor ensures it remains a family favorite.

The key to perfect buttered egg noodles lies in cooking the pasta to the right consistency and using quality butter. While the dish may seem basic, proper timing and temperature control can elevate it from ordinary to exceptional.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 6-8 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the noodles in a colander, then return them to the pot.

Add the butter to the hot noodles and stir until completely melted. Season with salt and black pepper, adding small amounts of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Toss the noodles until they're evenly coated with the butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving.

For best results, serve the noodles immediately while they're hot, as the butter sauce can become thick when cooled. If the noodles become too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water and briefly reheat. Never rinse the noodles after cooking, as the starch helps the butter sauce adhere better to the pasta.

• 12 oz dried egg noodles
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

5-Ingredient Tomato Pasta

Tomato Pasta is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes with perfectly cooked pasta. This simple yet satisfying meal can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

The key to creating a delicious tomato pasta lies in the quality of ingredients used, particularly the tomatoes and olive oil. Whether using fresh tomatoes during peak season or high-quality canned tomatoes, the natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit forms the foundation of this timeless dish.

• 1 pound spaghetti or penne pasta
• 4 large ripe tomatoes or 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely diced

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until translucent. Add tomatoes, breaking them up with a wooden spoon if using whole tomatoes, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it while reserving a cup of pasta water. Add the pasta to the tomato sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add small amounts of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency. Finish by stirring in fresh basil leaves and topping with grated Parmesan cheese.

For best results, avoid overcooking the pasta and serve immediately while hot. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If using fresh tomatoes, blanching and peeling them before cooking will create a smoother sauce texture. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity if needed.

Simple Teriyaki Udon

Simple Teriyaki Udon is a savory Japanese noodle dish that combines chewy udon noodles with a rich, glossy teriyaki sauce. The dish strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors, making it an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner.

This recipe takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and serves two people. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in cooking the udon noodles just right and creating a well-balanced teriyaki sauce that coats the noodles evenly without making them soggy.

• 2 packages fresh udon noodles (400g)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 2 tablespoons sake
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook the udon noodles according to package instructions, usually 1-2 minutes for fresh noodles. While the noodles cook, prepare the teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, mirin, sake, and brown sugar in a bowl.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat, add minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté until fragrant. Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the pan. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the noodles and toss continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the noodles evenly, about 2-3 minutes. The noodles should have a glossy appearance and the sauce should be reduced to a syrupy consistency. Add the sliced green onions and toss briefly to combine.

For best results, use fresh udon noodles rather than dried ones, as they've a superior texture and require less cooking time. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the noodle cooking water to achieve the desired consistency. The dish is best served immediately while the sauce is hot and glossy, garnished with additional green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

No-Fuss Ramen Stir-Fry

The secret to this recipe's success is timing and heat management. While the recipe uses instant ramen noodles, discarding the seasoning packet allows you to control the sodium content and create a more authentic Asian-inspired sauce that coats every strand with savory flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 packages instant ramen noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 2 cups protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, or tofu)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by one minute to prevent overcooking during stir-frying. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds, then add your chosen protein and cook until nearly done. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.

Add the cooked noodles to the wok along with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and broth. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are well-coated and the sauce has slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

For best results, prepare all ingredients before starting to cook, as stir-frying moves quickly. Keep your heat high but watch carefully to prevent burning, and don't overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if necessary. The noodles should be slightly undercooked when added to the stir-fry, as they'll continue cooking in the sauce.

Easy Pad Thai for Beginners

This beginner-friendly version takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people. The key to success lies in having all ingredients prepared before cooking, as the actual cooking process moves quickly and requires immediate attention to prevent overcooking.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz rice noodles
• 2 eggs
• 8 oz firm tofu, cubed
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Sauce:

• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp tamarind paste
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 20-30 minutes until they become pliable but still firm. While the noodles soak, combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and stir until the sugar dissolves.

Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and tofu, cooking until lightly browned. Push ingredients to one side and scramble the eggs in the empty space.

Add the drained noodles to the wok and pour the sauce over them. Toss everything together, continuing to cook until the noodles are tender and have absorbed most of the sauce, about 2-3 minutes. Add bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for another minute until slightly wilted but still crisp.

For best results, don't overcook the noodles during the soaking process – they should be slightly firm as they'll continue cooking in the wok. If the noodles become too dry while cooking, add a splash of water. Always serve immediately, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges, as Pad Thai tends to become sticky if left to sit too long.