If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comforting, and quick to whip up, this Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the bright zing of lime juice, a subtle kick from sriracha, and a medley of colorful vegetables—all tossed together with silky rice noodles. Whether you need a speedy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, this recipe delivers delightful textures and layers of taste that will have you coming back for seconds. Let me take you through every juicy detail to make your cooking experience both fun and delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s incredible about this Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe is how simple and straightforward the ingredients are. Each one plays a unique role—adding depth, color, or texture, making the dish vibrant and satisfying.
- 8 oz. rice noodles: These noodles are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce without becoming mushy.
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (divided): Offers a subtle nutty flavor and is perfect for sautéing the veggies.
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into strips): Adds a sweet crunch and bright color to the dish.
- 1/3 cup carrots (julienned): Provides a crisp texture and a touch of natural sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a punch of savory aroma that’s essential for balance.
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth: A savory base for the sauce that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds salty depth and umami to the mix.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce for a smooth, clingy consistency.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Injects a fresh tang to brighten the creamy peanut butter.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances out the salty and spicy with a natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha: Elevates the heat level—adjust to your liking.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Infuses a warm, spicy undertone to the sauce.
- 1/3 cup smooth peanut butter: The star ingredient that creates that luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (roughly chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal note as a finishing touch.
- ¼ cup roughly chopped peanuts: Adds irresistible crunch and extra peanut flavor.
- 2-3 green onions (sliced): Offer a mild oniony sharpness that rounds out the dish beautifully.
How to Make Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by combining all the sauce ingredients, except the peanut butter, in a large measuring cup with a spout. It’s really important that the ingredients are at room temperature so the cornstarch doesn’t prematurely thicken. Once everything is mixed well, stir in the peanut butter last. This is the magical moment where the sauce starts to become creamy and luscious, and it will blend even better when heated.
Step 2: Cook the Rice Noodles
Boil the rice noodles according to the package instructions—don’t overcook, you want them tender but with a bit of bite. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Toss the noodles with 1 tablespoon of peanut oil to keep them glossy and separated. This step ensures your noodles stay perfect when you bring everything together.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Combine
While the noodles are cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the red bell pepper strips and julienned carrots. Stir frequently and cook just for about 3 minutes so they soften slightly but still keep that fresh crunch. Add the prepared sauce to the pan, bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Now add in the noodles, tossing everything to coat those strands with that silky sauce. Heat through so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Once off the heat, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro, crunchy peanuts, and sliced green onions all over your noodles. These elements not only add a burst of flavor but also a lovely contrast in texture and color that makes the dish truly irresistible. Serve immediately and prepare to impress yourself!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing really elevates the Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe—fresh cilantro adds brightness, while chopped peanuts bring satisfying crunch. Don’t shy away from extra green onions or a wedge of lime on the side for those who love a sharper tang. A drizzle of sriracha on top can amp up the heat for spicier palates.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simplicity—consider a light cucumber salad, steamed greens like bok choy, or even crisp snap peas for added crunch without overpowering the flavor palette. A bowl of miso soup could also round out the meal with warmth and subtle umami.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these noodles in individual lettuce cups or wrap them up in rice paper rolls alongside fresh herbs for a hand-held treat. You can also toss some grilled chicken or tofu on top to turn it into a heartier main course. Presentation is your playground!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peanut Butter Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, so they might even taste better the next day. Just remember that the noodles may soak up the sauce and become a bit thicker.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not ideal because the texture of the noodles and the sauce can change upon thawing. For best results, enjoy freshly made or refrigerate for short-term storage.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the noodles in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it seems too thick. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to heat through evenly. Avoid microwave reheating that often dries out the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle for the Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! While rice noodles are traditional and have the perfect texture, you can substitute with soba, udon, or even spaghetti if needed. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe vegetarian?
As written, it uses chicken broth, but you can easily swap it for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The sriracha adds a gentle kick that you can control. Feel free to reduce or omit it if you prefer mild flavors, or add more if you love heat.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! Making the sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to blend nicely. Just keep it refrigerated and add the peanut butter last when warming it up to maintain that creamy texture.
What toppings work best with Peanut Butter Noodles?
Crunchy peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions are fantastic. You can also experiment with roasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced red chilies for extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe has earned a special spot in my kitchen and heart because it’s comfort food with a fresh twist: quick, easy, and packed with deliciousness. I genuinely encourage you to try it out—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Print
Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Peanut Butter Noodles recipe offers a creamy, savory Asian-inspired dish combining tender rice noodles with a flavorful peanut sauce, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
Ingredients
Noodles and Vegetables
- 8 oz. rice noodles
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1/3 cup carrots, julienned
- 2–3 green onions, sliced
Sauce and Oils
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (e.g., Frank’s)
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/3 cup smooth peanut butter
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup roughly chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large measuring cup or bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, lime juice, honey, sriracha, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Ensure ingredients are at room temperature to prevent premature activation of cornstarch. Stir in the smooth peanut butter until the sauce is uniform. Set aside to meld flavors.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the rice noodles according to the package instructions until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss noodles with 1 tablespoon peanut oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables and Combine: Heat remaining 1 tablespoon peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper strips and julienned carrots, cooking for about 3 minutes while stirring frequently until slightly softened. Pour in the prepared peanut sauce, bringing it gently to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, add the cooked noodles, and toss everything together to coat well and heat through.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh cilantro, roughly chopped peanuts, and sliced green onions on top for added freshness and crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful peanut butter noodles!
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
- Alternative noodles such as soba, udon, or wheat noodles can be used but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Adjust sriracha amount to your preferred spice level.
- Peanut oil can be substituted with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or water.
