Name: Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti; 1/3 cup natural peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice; 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tsp fresh grated; 1/4 cup warm water; 2 scallions, chopped; 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional); Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish (optional); Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (optional: carrots, bell peppers, broccoli)

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This Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles recipe is the ultimate in quick, flavorful comfort food. Creamy, spicy, and satisfying, it's perfect for those busy nights when I crave something hearty but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. In just 15 minutes, I can whip up a plate of perfectly coated noodles that's bursting with the bold, rich flavors of peanut butter and a kick of heat from sriracha. Whether served warm or cold, this dish is versatile, filling, and easy to make.

Ingredients

8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti

1/3 cup natural peanut butter

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice

1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tsp fresh grated

1/4 cup warm water

2 scallions, chopped

1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish (optional)

Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (optional: carrots, bell peppers, broccoli)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

While the noodles are cooking, in a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and warm water until smooth and creamy.

If the sauce is too thick, I add a little more water until I reach the desired consistency.

Toss the drained noodles with the sauce until fully coated.

Add chopped scallions and mix well. Top with chopped peanuts, fresh herbs, and veggies if using.

Serve warm or cold as desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Storage/Reheating

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If I want to reheat it, I usually do so in a microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen up the sauce. It’s also delicious served cold, so it works great as a make-ahead lunch or leftover dinner.

FAQs

Can I use any type of noodles for this recipe?

Yes! While I use rice noodles for a more authentic flavor, spaghetti or any other noodles work just as well. It’s all about the sauce, and the noodles will absorb it beautifully no matter which one I choose.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Of course! If I prefer a milder dish, I reduce the amount of sriracha or chili garlic sauce. I also recommend starting with just 1 teaspoon and adjusting to taste as I go along.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, I just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Additionally, I ensure that the noodles I choose are also gluten-free, such as rice noodles.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! This recipe is flexible, and I can easily add protein by topping the noodles with grilled chicken, tofu, or even a fried egg. It makes for a more filling meal, especially if I’m looking for extra protein.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, I can prepare the sauce and cook the noodles in advance. When I’m ready to eat, I just toss them together and top with my favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s a great meal prep option for busy days.

Conclusion

These Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles have quickly become one of my go-to quick meals. The creamy, spicy sauce is irresistible, and it pairs perfectly with the noodles. I love how customizable the dish is—I can add vegetables, protein, or even adjust the spice level to my liking. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it ahead for lunch, it’s always a satisfying and delicious option.

Recipe:

Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles are a quick, flavorful comfort food, combining creamy peanut butter with a kick of heat from sriracha. Perfect for busy nights, they can be served warm or cold and are easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein.

Instructions

Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
While the noodles are cooking, in a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and warm water until smooth and creamy.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water until you reach the desired consistency.
Toss the drained noodles with the sauce until fully coated.
Add chopped scallions and mix well. Top with chopped peanuts, fresh herbs, and veggies if using.
Serve warm or cold as desired.