If you’re craving something flavorful, easy to make, and downright comforting, this Teriyaki Noodles Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine perfectly tender noodles bathed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, complemented by the crunch of fresh shredded cabbage and carrots. It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers bold taste with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you try this Teriyaki Noodles Recipe, it’s bound to become your go-to dish when you want both simplicity and flavor in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Teriyaki Noodles Recipe plays a vital role in bringing layers of taste, texture, and color to the dish. From the sweetness of brown sugar to the fresh crunch of cabbage and carrots, these simple items come together beautifully.
- 1/2 green cabbage, shredded: Adds a fresh, crisp texture and a slight earthiness perfect for balance.
- 2 carrots, shredded: Provides a pop of color and natural sweetness to brighten the noodles.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Helps sauté the veggies and brings a subtle richness to the base.
- 2/3 cup soy sauce: The salty, umami-packed foundation of the teriyaki sauce.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce delightfully, giving it that signature gloss and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard: Offers a gentle tang that enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings warmth and a subtle zing characteristic of teriyaki flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, mellow garlic undertones.
- 16 ounces spaghetti: Acts as the hearty base, absorbing all the flavorful sauce.
- 3 1/2 cups water: Necessary for cooking the noodles and melding the sauce together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Adds a lovely nutty crunch for garnish and final texture boost.
How to Make Teriyaki Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding the olive oil. Toss in the shredded green cabbage and carrots. Sauté these vibrant veggies for about 5 minutes until they soften just enough to release sweetness while still maintaining a little crunch. This step ensures your noodles will have exciting texture contrasts.
Step 2: Build the Teriyaki Sauce
Next, pour in the soy sauce, then sprinkle brown sugar, ground mustard, ground ginger, and garlic powder right on top. Stir everything together thoroughly so the veggies soak up those bold teriyaki flavors. This combination creates the delicious sweet-and-savory punch that makes this Teriyaki Noodles Recipe so addictive.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles with Sauce
Break the spaghetti in half if you prefer shorter strands, then add it directly to the pot. Pour the 3 1/2 cups of water over the noodles, pressing them down gently to ensure they are submerged and evenly moistened. Cook uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the noodles start to bend, be sure to stir a bit more frequently toward the end to avoid any sticking. The noodles will slowly absorb the sauce, which begins to thicken beautifully.
Step 4: Final Touches
When the noodles are perfectly tender and the sauce has a nice glaze consistency, take the pot off the heat. Toss in the sesame seeds and give everything one last good stir. Your Teriyaki Noodles Recipe is ready to be served piping hot!
How to Serve Teriyaki Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, sprinkle more sesame seeds on top for extra nuttiness and crunch. Chopped green onions also add a fresh pop of color and a gentle bite that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory sauce. These simple garnishes bring elegance and a touch of freshness to your bowl of noodles.
Side Dishes
This Teriyaki Noodles Recipe shines as a standalone meal, but pairing it with crisp steamed vegetables or a light Asian-inspired salad offers perfect balance. For something heartier, serve alongside grilled chicken or tofu for added protein, turning this into a complete feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your teriyaki noodles in individual bowls topped with a fried egg or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like cashews or peanuts. Using a bamboo steamer basket or colorful ceramic plates can enhance the dining experience, making your creation feel even more special whether enjoyed solo or shared with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Teriyaki Noodles keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may soak up even more of the sauce’s flavor overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze the noodles in portions for up to a month. Be sure to cool completely before freezing and pack airtight to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid overcooking to keep the noodles tender and the vegetables crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles in this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works great here, feel free to swap in rice noodles, udon, or even soba for a different texture and twist on your Teriyaki Noodles Recipe.
Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian, and if you use a vegan soy sauce or tamari, it’s also vegan. It’s a versatile dish that can easily fit into plant-based diets.
Can I add protein to the Teriyaki Noodles Recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even beef slices make excellent additions. Simply cook your protein separately and toss it in at the end for a hearty meal.
How spicy is this dish?
This Teriyaki Noodles Recipe is on the mild side with warm spices like ginger and mustard but no heat. If you like a bit of kick, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to suit your tastes.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, white sugar, coconut sugar, or honey can be used to maintain the sweet element, though each will slightly alter the final flavor of your teriyaki sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Noodles Recipe is a beautifully balanced dish that’s easy to whip up yet bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, this one-pot meal brings joy and comfort to your table quickly and effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it becomes a favorite in your home, just like it did in mine!
Print
Teriyaki Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Teriyaki Noodles recipe featuring tender spaghetti cooked with shredded cabbage and carrots in a savory soy-based sauce, garnished with toasted sesame seeds. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner with a delightful balance of sweetness and umami.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1/2 green cabbage, shredded
- 2 carrots, shredded
Sauce
- 2/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Main
- 16 ounces spaghetti
- 3 1/2 cups water
Others
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Heat vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add 1 teaspoon of olive oil, shredded cabbage, and shredded carrots. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Prepare sauce: Add soy sauce, brown sugar, ground mustard, ground ginger, and garlic powder to the pot with the vegetables. Stir everything together until the sauce ingredients are well combined.
- Add noodles and water: Break spaghetti in half if desired, then add to the pot. Pour in 3 1/2 cups of water and press the noodles down to ensure they are moistened by the sauce and liquid.
- Cook noodles: Let the noodles cook uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes. Stir every few minutes once the noodles start bending, and increase stirring frequency near the end to prevent sticking. The noodles are done when tender and sauce has thickened.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat and toss in 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds. Serve immediately, garnished with extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, garnish with sliced green onions or chopped cilantro before serving.
- You can substitute spaghetti with other noodles like linguine or egg noodles.
- Adjust soy sauce and brown sugar quantities to taste for a sweeter or saltier sauce.
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free pasta.
