20 Delicious Noodle Side Dish Recipes Easy

Are you ready to transform your meals with the magic of noodles? Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or looking for the perfect comfort food to cozy up with, our roundup of 20 Delicious Noodle Side Dish Recipes has got you covered. From savory to sweet, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Garlic Butter Noodles

Garlic Butter Noodles

These Garlic Butter Noodles are your ticket to a quick, flavorful meal that feels anything but rushed, with a rich, buttery sauce that clings perfectly to every strand.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley, tossing until evenly distributed.

The magic of this dish lies in the simplicity of its ingredients transforming into a deeply flavorful sauce that’s irresistibly glossy and rich.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the garlic lightly in the butter until golden but not browned before adding the pasta.

Sesame Soy Noodles

Sesame Soy Noodles

These Sesame Soy Noodles are a quick, flavorful twist on your usual pasta night, blending the rich tastes of sesame and soy into a dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar until well combined.
  3. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce until evenly coated.
  4. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of sweet honey and savory soy, with a hint of sesame that ties everything together beautifully.

Tip: For an extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes before garnishing.

Spicy Peanut Noodles

Spicy Peanut Noodles

Craving something that’s both comforting and packed with flavor? These Spicy Peanut Noodles are your weeknight dinner hero, ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp crushed peanuts (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sriracha, and 1 clove minced garlic until smooth. Gradually add 1/4 cup water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
  3. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the peanut sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp crushed peanuts before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors, all clinging to perfectly cooked noodles for a truly addictive bite.

Tip: For an extra crunch, add some thinly sliced cucumbers or bell peppers right before serving.

Cheesy Broccoli Noodles

Cheesy Broccoli Noodles

Dive into the comfort of Cheesy Broccoli Noodles, a dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the fresh crunch of broccoli for a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
  3. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli florets to the pot, stirring gently to coat everything in the cheese sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the velvety cheese sauce and the vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli, making every bite a delightful experience.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes.

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Noodles

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Noodles

Whip up these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Noodles for a quick, flavorful dish that’s sure to brighten your dinner table with its zesty and creamy flavors.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 3 tbsp unsalted butter. Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice and the reserved pasta water, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Remove from heat and stir in the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the noodles are creamy.
  5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with the 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of tangy lemon and rich Parmesan, creating a sauce that clings perfectly to every noodle.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the lemon juice.

Thai Coconut Curry Noodles

Thai Coconut Curry Noodles

Warm up your kitchen with these Thai Coconut Curry Noodles, a creamy, spicy, and utterly comforting dish that’s ready in no time.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

  1. Soak the rice noodles in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red curry paste, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the coconut milk, vegetable broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Add the red bell pepper and broccoli florets to the pan, cooking for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the drained rice noodles and fresh basil leaves, tossing everything together until the noodles are well coated and heated through.
  6. Remove from heat and squeeze the lime juice over the top before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of creamy coconut milk with the sharp tang of lime and the heat from the curry paste, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes with the curry paste.

Honey Sriracha Noodles

Honey Sriracha Noodles

Spice up your noodle game with these Honey Sriracha Noodles, a perfect blend of sweet and heat that comes together in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sriracha sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp sesame oil, minced garlic, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked noodles and the sauce mixture, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  4. Remove from heat and garnish with 1/4 cup sliced green onions and 1 tbsp sesame seeds.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the fiery sriracha and the soothing sweetness of honey, creating a flavor profile that’s bold yet approachable.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top before serving.

Vegetable Stir Fry Noodles

Vegetable Stir Fry Noodles

Whip up a vibrant and satisfying meal in minutes with this Vegetable Stir Fry Noodles recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something light yet flavorful.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz dried rice noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 cup sliced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1 cup sliced carrots
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Soak the rice noodles in hot water for 5 minutes until soft, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Toss in the drained noodles, followed by soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
  5. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the perfect balance of textures—crisp vegetables against the soft, chewy noodles, all brought together with a savory-sweet sauce.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, toss in some tofu or chicken strips with the vegetables.

Creamy Avocado Noodles

Creamy Avocado Noodles

Whip up these Creamy Avocado Noodles for a quick, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a food processor, combine avocado, basil, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the avocado sauce until evenly coated.
  4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy avocado sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, offering a fresh twist on traditional pesto.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce before blending.

Pesto Zucchini Noodles

Pesto Zucchini Noodles

Looking for a light, flavorful dish that comes together in minutes? These Pesto Zucchini Noodles are your answer, offering a fresh twist on pasta night without the heaviness.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.
  2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the 1/2 cup olive oil until the pesto is smooth. Stir in the 1 tbsp lemon juice.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes, just until they begin to soften.
  4. Remove from heat and toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto until evenly coated.

The magic of this dish lies in the vibrant pesto clinging to each zucchini noodle, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Tip: For an extra crunch, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the pesto.

Garlic Herb Butter Noodles

Garlic Herb Butter Noodles

These Garlic Herb Butter Noodles are a simple yet flavorful dish that turns ordinary pasta into something special with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss with the garlic butter, then stir in fresh parsley, fresh thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss once more to combine.

The magic of this dish lies in the fresh herbs and garlic melding with the butter to create a sauce that’s rich without being heavy, coating each noodle perfectly.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Maple Bacon Noodles

Maple Bacon Noodles

Who says bacon is just for breakfast? These Maple Bacon Noodles twist the classic into a sweet and savory dinner that’s irresistibly easy.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
  3. Drain all but 1 tbsp of bacon fat from the skillet. Return skillet to medium heat and add maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for 1 minute.
  4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the crispy bacon. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

The magic here is in the balance—maple’s sweetness plays off the bacon’s smokiness, while soy sauce adds depth without overpowering.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the garlic powder in the bacon fat for 30 seconds before adding the other sauce ingredients.

Chili Lime Noodles

Chili Lime Noodles

Spice up your noodle game with these vibrant Chili Lime Noodles, a perfect blend of tangy and spicy flavors that come together in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lime zest
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions

  1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, followed by lime zest, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Toss everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro.
  5. Garnish with chopped peanuts before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of sweet honey, tangy lime, and fiery chili flakes, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a splash of sriracha sauce when tossing the noodles.

Coconut Lime Noodles

Coconut Lime Noodles

These Coconut Lime Noodles are a vibrant, tangy twist on your usual pasta night, blending creamy coconut milk with zesty lime for a dish that’s as refreshing as it is comforting.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp lime zest
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the noodles are heated through.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of rich coconut milk and bright lime, creating a sauce that’s irresistibly creamy yet light. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something different but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Tip: For an extra crunch, top with chopped peanuts or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.

Alfredo Spinach Noodles

Alfredo Spinach Noodles

Dive into the creamy, dreamy world of Alfredo Spinach Noodles, where rich sauce meets tender pasta and vibrant spinach for a dish that’s as comforting as it is colorful.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fettuccine noodles
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, tightly packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
  5. Stir in salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Add fresh spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until spinach is wilted.
  6. Add the cooked fettuccine noodles to the skillet, tossing until evenly coated with the Alfredo sauce.

The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that elevates the creamy Alfredo, while the spinach brings a fresh contrast to each bite.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the nutmeg in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding it to the sauce.

Tomato Basil Noodles

Tomato Basil Noodles

Whip up these Tomato Basil Noodles for a quick, flavorful meal that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
  4. Stir in the cooked spaghetti noodles, 1/4 cup chopped basil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
  5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the fresh basil and cherry tomatoes, which burst with flavor against the backdrop of perfectly al dente noodles, creating a symphony of tastes in every bite.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomatoes as they cook.

Mushroom Stroganoff Noodles

Mushroom Stroganoff Noodles

Craving something creamy and comforting? This Mushroom Stroganoff Noodles recipe is your weeknight hero, blending earthy mushrooms with a rich, tangy sauce over tender noodles.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz wide egg noodles
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and onion, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until mushrooms are golden and onions are soft.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring to coat.
  4. Gradually pour in vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in Dijon mustard, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The secret to this dish’s depth of flavor? A splash of Dijon mustard adds a subtle sharpness that balances the creamy sauce perfectly.

Tip: For an extra umami kick, swap half the cremini mushrooms with shiitakes.

Caramelized Onion Noodles

Caramelized Onion Noodles

Transform your weeknight dinner with these Caramelized Onion Noodles, where sweet, slow-cooked onions meet perfectly al dente pasta in a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes until onions are soft and translucent.
  3. Sprinkle brown sugar over the onions and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are deeply caramelized.
  4. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for 1 minute to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
  5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the sweetness of the caramelized onions and the tangy depth from the balsamic vinegar, creating a pasta that’s rich in flavor yet simple to make.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onions as they caramelize.

Ginger Scallion Noodles

Ginger Scallion Noodles

These Ginger Scallion Noodles are a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that comes together in just minutes, perfect for those nights when you crave something quick yet utterly satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz dried wheat noodles
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
  • 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the scallions and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, mixing well to combine.
  4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing thoroughly to coat them in the ginger scallion sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of sharp ginger and sweet scallions, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of noodle.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the scallions and ginger.

Black Bean Garlic Noodles

Black Bean Garlic Noodles

These Black Bean Garlic Noodles are a quick, flavor-packed meal that brings the umami richness of black bean sauce together with the sharp bite of fresh garlic.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz dried wheat noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp black bean sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the black bean sauce, soy sauce, and sugar, cooking for another minute to blend the flavors.
  4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan along with the water. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are evenly coated and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the bold contrast between the savory black bean sauce and the pungent freshness of garlic, all clinging to perfectly chewy noodles.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes with the garlic.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 delicious noodle side dishes inspires your next meal! Each recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your go-to dishes on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

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