easy dinner with noodles

Easy Dinner with Noodles Wholesome Recipes for a Busy Night

When the clock is ticking and hunger pangs are setting in, it's always a relief to have a few easy and delicious dinner ideas up your sleeve. Noodles, with their versatility and quick cooking time, make for an excellent base for a satisfying meal. Here are some simple noodle recipes that are sure to please the entire family, without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

1. Stir-Fried Noodles with Vegetables

A classic stir-fried noodle dish is not only quick to prepare but also a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your dinner. Start with a pack of your favorite noodles—egg noodles or rice noodles work well. Following the package instructions, cook the noodles al dente and set aside.

In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until they are crisp-tender. Add minced garlic and ginger for flavor, and stir for another minute.

Next, add the cooked noodles to the skillet along with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of chili sauce if you like some heat. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

2. Creamy Garlic Butter Noodles

For those nights when you crave something rich and indulgent, creamy garlic butter noodles are the way to go! Begin by cooking your choice of pasta—fettuccine or spaghetti works wonderfully. While the pasta is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add minced garlic (about 4-5 cloves) to the butter, cooking until fragrant but not browned. Pour in half a cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

When the pasta is ready, drain and add it to the saucepan. Toss the noodles in the creamy sauce until they are evenly coated. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad.

3. Noodles with Peanut Sauce

For a quick and healthy dinner, noodles with peanut sauce are a fantastic option. Begin by cooking whole wheat or rice noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the peanut sauce by whisking together 1/3 cup of peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and the juice of one lime in a bowl until smooth. Add a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.

Once the noodles are drained, transfer them to a mixing bowl, and pour the peanut sauce over the top. Toss well to ensure all the noodles are coated. You can also add shredded carrots, cucumber, or edamame for added nutrition and texture. Sprinkle chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro on top for extra flavor.

4. One-Pan Noodle Bake

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, a one-pan noodle bake is a perfect solution. First, boil a pot of water and cook your preferred pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and any leftover chicken or sausage you might have on hand. Once cooked, add canned diced tomatoes, drained beans, and Italian seasoning.

Stir in the cooked pasta, and combine everything thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Conclusion

Dinner doesn't have to be a complicated affair. With these easy noodle recipes, you can whip up a delicious, satisfying meal in no time. Whether it's a quick stir-fry, a creamy pasta dish, or a flavorful one-pan bake, noodles provide endless possibilities for variety and flavor. So next time you're pressed for time, remember that a delectable dinner with noodles is just a few simple steps away!