This Creamy Peanut Noodles recipe is my go-to when I need something fast, comforting, and full of flavor. They’re inspired by the rich peanut sauces found in Southeast Asian dishes like Thai satay and Indonesian gado-gado, but this version is simplified with pantry ingredients and ready in just 15 minutes. It’s creamy, garlicky, nutty, and so addicting.
I made this one night using my favorite Chinese thick wheat noodles that I had on hand, but honestly — any noodle works here. Ramen, udon, soba, or even spaghetti will do the job. What makes this dish so great is how versatile it is. You can eat it warm or cold, make it spicy or mild, and dress it up with toppings like cilantro and chopped peanuts for added texture and freshness.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just craving something fast and cozy, this is the kind of recipe that’ll sneak its way into your weekly dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ 15 minutes start to finish
- ✅ Pantry-friendly ingredients
- ✅ Easily customizable (hot or cold, spicy or mild)
- ✅ Works with any type of noodle
- ✅ Perfect for meal prep
Tips & Variations
- Use any noodle: This works with ramen, soba, udon, or even spaghetti.
- Protein options: Add tofu, shredded chicken, or a soft-boiled egg for a more filling meal.
- Veggie boost: Add shredded carrots, cucumber ribbons, or steamed broccoli.
- Great hot or cold: I like to eat this dish while it’s fresh and warm. This dish is also delicious chilled, making it perfect for meal prep or summer lunches.
Watch the Video
Watch my short tutorial on how to make these Creamy Peanut Noodles:
FAQ – Creamy Peanut Noodles
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture, but make sure to thin it out with a bit of warm water to help it mix evenly.
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
Try almond butter, cashew butter, tahini, or even sunflower seed butter if you have allergies.
Are these noodles vegan?
Yes, as long as you use egg-free noodles and a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup.
Can I meal prep this?
Definitely. Store the noodles and sauce separately for best results. Or toss and chill — the flavors deepen overnight!
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. If serving cold, just toss and eat straight from the fridge.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — just use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and pair it with rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti.
Save this for later
If you love quick and easy recipes like this, don’t forget to pin, bookmark, or share it! Let me know in the comments or tag @ivyskitchn if you make it — I’d love to see your version.
Creamy Peanut Noodles (15-Minute Dinner)
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, garlic, ginger, hot water, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, sugar, and chili oil or chili flakes (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding more hot water as needed to thin the sauce.
- Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Top with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and extra chili oil if desired. Serve warm or chilled.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use any noodle: This works with ramen, soba, udon, or even spaghetti.
- Protein options: Add tofu, shredded chicken, or a soft-boiled egg for a more filling meal.
- Veggie boost: Add shredded carrots, cucumber ribbons, or steamed broccoli.
- Great hot or cold: I like to eat this dish while it’s fresh and warm. This dish is also delicious chilled, making it perfect for meal prep or summer lunches.
