If you’ve been craving something that’s bright, creamy, and packs a punch of flavor, you have to try this Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of savory and tangy with a hint of spice, wrapped up in smooth peanut butter goodness that coats every bite of tender rice noodles. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe feels both indulgent and fresh, and it’s surprisingly simple to whip up. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become one of those beloved staples you want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in the Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe. From crunchy veggies to aromatic spices, every component comes together to make this dish truly unforgettable.
- 8 oz. rice noodles: The soft, chewy base that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (divided): Adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps with cooking the veggies.
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into strips): Brings vibrant color and a sweet crunch.
- 1/3 cup carrots (julienned): Adds a fresh, crisp texture and natural sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with warm and aromatic depth.
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth: Lightly moistens the noodles and helps create the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides savory umami and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for that silky finish.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds brightness and a refreshing tang.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances acidity with gentle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha: Gives the dish a gentle kick; adjust to your heat preference.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Enhances the warmth and complexity of the sauce.
- 1/3 cup smooth peanut butter: The star ingredient that makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and rich.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (roughly chopped): Brightens the dish and adds herbal notes.
- ¼ cup roughly chopped peanuts: Adds satisfying crunch and extra peanut flavor.
- 2-3 green onions (sliced): Offers a mild onion bite and fresh green color.
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. This is important because the cornstarch should not activate prematurely, so make sure everything is at room temperature. Once well blended, stir in the smooth peanut butter. Don’t worry if it looks a bit chunky now; it will melt into velvety perfection when heated. Take this moment to measure out the remaining ingredients, so you’re all set for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Boil the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are tender but still have a little bite. Immediately drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking. Toss them with one tablespoon of peanut oil to keep them silky and separate while prepping the rest of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute rice noodles with soba or even spaghetti for different texture, but the rice noodles soak up the sauce best!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Simmer the Sauce
Now heat the remaining peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vibrant red bell pepper strips and fresh julienned carrots and cook for about three minutes until they’re just tender yet still crisp. This quick sauté keeps the veggies lively and flavorful. Pour in the prepared sauce and bring it to a gentle boil. Then lower to a simmer, and toss in the cooked noodles. Stir everything together to coat the noodles evenly, letting them soak in that rich, creamy peanut sauce until heated through.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once off the heat, sprinkle the noodles with roughly chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and the sliced green onions. This last step heightens the textural contrast and adds a fresh pop of flavor that makes the dish sing. You’re now ready to serve a comforting bowl of Peanut Butter Noodles that’s bursting with bold, satisfying flavors!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes really elevate this dish by adding texture and freshness. The chopped peanuts bring an irresistible crunch, while sliced green onions offer a mild sharpness. Fresh cilantro adds a nice herbal brightness that cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully. Feel free to sprinkle a dash of sesame seeds or a squeeze of extra lime juice for a little zing!
Side Dishes
Peanut Butter Noodles pair wonderfully with light, crisp sides to balance the richness. Think crunchy cucumber salad, steamed or roasted broccoli, or even a simple side of edamame sprinkled with sea salt. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or tofu alongside to boost protein without overwhelming the delicate sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or turn this into a fun weeknight meal? Serve the noodles in individual bowls topped with vibrant garnishes and a wedge of lime on the side. You can also turn it into a noodle salad by chilling the dish slightly and tossing in extra fresh veggies like shredded cabbage for crunch. Another clever idea is wrapping the noodles and veggies in rice paper rolls for a handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peanut Butter Noodles keep quite well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest overnight, making leftovers a treat in their own right. Just be sure to add any fresh garnishes like peanuts or herbs right before serving again to keep them crisp.
Freezing
Because of the creamy peanut sauce and fresh veggies, this dish isn’t ideal for freezing. The noodles may become mushy and the sauce can separate. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days, then reheated.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the noodles gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir often to ensure everything heats evenly without drying out. Microwaving works too, but go slow and stir to prevent hot spots.
FAQs
Can I make this Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use tamari or a vegan soy sauce. You can also omit any animal-based toppings or add tofu for protein instead.
What if I don’t have rice noodles? Can I use something else?
Yes! While rice noodles absorb the sauce best and keep the dish authentic, you can use soba noodles, spaghetti, or even thin udon noodles. Just cook according to package directions and drain well.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The recipe includes sriracha which adds a gentle kick. You can easily adjust it by using less or none for a milder flavor, or add more if you love heat. It’s a flexible recipe tailored to your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use gluten-free soy sauce and verify that your noodles are rice-based without any additives containing gluten. Most rice noodles are naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a gathering?
Yes! You can make the sauce and chop the veggies in advance. Cook the noodles just before serving to keep them from sticking together, then toss everything quickly in the skillet. This way, your Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe will taste fresh and vibrant for your guests.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—comforting, satisfying, and bursting with flavor in every bite. It’s quick enough to fit into busy evenings but special enough to impress friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular in your kitchen. Once you do, these noodles might just become your new go-to dish for delicious and easy dinners!
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 deliciously creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy Asian-inspired dish. Featuring tender rice noodles coated with a savory peanut sauce made from smooth peanut butter, soy, lime, and sriracha, this quick and easy meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tossed with fresh vegetables and garnished with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and green onions, it’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 oz. rice noodles (see notes)
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (divided)
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (I use Frank’s)
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/3 cup smooth peanut butter
Vegetables & Garnishes
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into strips)
- 1/3 cup carrots (julienned)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
- ¼ cup roughly chopped peanuts
- 2–3 green onions (sliced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients except the peanut butter—chicken broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, lime juice, honey, sriracha, and ground ginger—in a large measuring cup with a spout. Stir thoroughly ensuring no warm ingredients to prevent premature cornstarch activation. Then stir in the smooth peanut butter until combined and set aside. The peanut butter will integrate fully when heated later. Measure and prep remaining ingredients before cooking.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the rice noodles according to package directions until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then toss with 1 tablespoon of peanut oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while preparing the vegetables.
- Cook Vegetables and Sauce: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red bell pepper and julienned carrots and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently until just tender. Add the peanut sauce to the pan and bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked and oiled rice noodles to the skillet with the simmering sauce and vegetables. Toss continuously to combine and heat everything through thoroughly, allowing the sauce to coat the noodles evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and immediately top the noodles with chopped fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and sliced green onions. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful noodle dish.
Notes
- Rice noodles can be substituted with soba, udon, or spaghetti noodles if desired.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure soy sauce is vegetarian friendly.
- Adjust sriracha amount to control the level of spiciness in the dish.
- To prevent noodles from sticking, toss them quickly in peanut oil right after cooking.
- If peanut allergy is a concern, try almond butter or tahini as alternatives, keeping in mind the flavor changes.
