Flavorful Pan Fried Noodles: Your Go-To Weeknight Asian Delight

Pan Fried Noodles offer an incredibly simple and satisfying Asian dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes! This versatile dish requires just a few staple ingredients: your choice of noodles, a rich savory sauce, and an assortment of fresh stir-fry vegetables. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Craving the deliciousness of your favorite takeout but want to keep things quick, easy, and wholesome? Look no further than these spectacular Pan Fried Noodles. Much like popular dishes such as Hunan Chicken or the convenient Sheet Pan Stir Fry, this recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for any busy weekday.

If you’re like me and enjoy recreating beloved takeout meals at home, this Pan Fried Noodles recipe is destined to become a new favorite. The best part? You likely already have most of the ingredients stocked in your pantry and fridge. For even greater convenience, you can prepare the delicious stir-fry sauce a day ahead, or simply use a trusted blend like my homemade Stir Fry Sauce, which I always keep on hand for last-minute meals.

Why You’ll Love This Pan Fried Noodles Recipe

There are countless reasons to embrace this incredible Pan Fried Noodles recipe, making it a staple in your meal rotation:

• Lightning Fast: From start to finish, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s faster than ordering takeout and waiting for delivery!
• Effortless Preparation: The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Minimal chopping, simple cooking techniques, and quick assembly mean less time in the kitchen.
• Healthier Takeout Alternative: By cooking at home, you control the quality of ingredients, the amount of oil, and the sodium content. Load it up with fresh vegetables for a nutrient-packed meal without compromising on taste.
• Endlessly Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic canvas for creativity. Adjust the vegetables, add your favorite proteins, or tweak the sauce to suit your dietary preferences and flavor cravings.
• Budget-Friendly: Making your own pan-fried noodles is significantly more economical than buying them from a restaurant. You can feed a family for the cost of a single takeout order.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The savory sauce and tender-crisp noodles are universally appealing, making this a dish that everyone at your table will enjoy, even picky eaters!

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pan Fried Noodles

The beauty of pan-fried noodles lies in their simplicity and the harmony of a few key ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this delectable dish:

The Noodles

The foundation of this meal, your choice of noodles, is crucial for texture and flavor. We recommend varieties that hold up well to stir-frying and develop a lovely crispiness when pan-fried.

• Chinese Egg Noodles: Often found fresh or dried in Asian markets, these noodles have a good chew and excellent frying properties.
• Yakisoba Noodles: These are typically pre-cooked and sold in vacuum-sealed packs, making them incredibly convenient for quick meals.
• Chow Mein Noodles: Similar to egg noodles, these can be fresh or dried and are ideal for achieving that classic “chow mein” texture.
• Ramen Noodles: While often associated with soup, many ramen noodle varieties (especially the dried blocks without the seasoning packet) can be cooked and then pan-fried for a delicious result. Always cook them according to package directions first.

Tip: If using dried noodles, cook them al dente according to package instructions, then rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Toss with a teaspoon of olive oil before setting aside.

Fresh Vegetables

A vibrant mix of vegetables not only adds essential nutrients but also contributes wonderful color and texture to your pan-fried noodles. Feel free to use your favorites!

• Yellow Onion: While optional, a chopped yellow onion adds a foundational aromatic sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the stir-fry. Sauté it until translucent for best results.
• Garlic: The cornerstone of many Asian dishes, fresh minced garlic infuses the noodles with an irresistible aroma and pungent flavor. If you’re a garlic enthusiast, don’t hesitate to double the amount!
• Carrots: Thinly sliced or julienned carrots provide a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness. For a time-saving hack, opt for pre-shredded carrots.
• Bell Pepper: Red or orange bell peppers are fantastic choices for their vibrant color and sweet, mild flavor. Slice them into thin strips so they cook quickly and evenly. A combination of colors can make the dish even more visually appealing.

The Savory Sauce

The sauce is where the magic truly happens, bringing all the elements together with its rich, umami-packed flavor profile. This simple blend creates a balanced sweet and savory coating for your noodles and veggies.

• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This is my preferred choice as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish without sacrificing flavor. Regular soy sauce can be too overpowering.
• Hoisin Sauce: A thick, sweet, and tangy sauce, hoisin is a flavor powerhouse in Asian cuisine. It adds depth and a beautiful glaze to the noodles. If you can’t find it in your local grocery store, you can easily whip up a batch using my Homemade Hoisin Sauce recipe.
• Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way with toasted sesame oil! Its distinct nutty aroma and flavor are essential for an authentic Asian taste. Add it at the end of the sauce preparation to preserve its delicate notes.
• Cornstarch: This acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, ensuring it coats the noodles beautifully and doesn’t become watery. Mix it with a small amount of liquid (like water or a bit of soy sauce) to create a slurry before adding it to the pan.

Garnishes

Finishing touches elevate the dish both visually and in terms of flavor.

• Toasted Sesame Seeds: A classic garnish for any Asian-inspired dish, they add a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
• Green Onion: Freshly chopped green onions provide a burst of fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of bright green color.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pan Fried Noodles

Creating these delightful Pan Fried Noodles is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:

1. Prepare Your Noodles: If your noodles are not pre-cooked, prepare them now according to the package instructions. Cook them until they are al dente (slightly firm). Drain them thoroughly, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Toss them lightly with about 2 teaspoons of olive oil and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
3. Add Carrots: Introduce the thinly sliced carrots to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp. Remove all the cooked vegetables from the skillet and transfer them to a plate, setting them aside for later.
4. Fry the Noodles: Add the remaining one tablespoon of olive oil to the now-empty skillet. Add the cooked and prepared noodles. Spread them out evenly and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes until they start to brown and develop a crispy texture in spots. Then, toss and continue to fry for another few minutes, allowing other sections to crisp up.
5. Combine and Sauce: Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the noodles. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch until well combined and smooth. Pour this sauce mixture over the noodles and vegetables in the skillet.
6. Thicken and Serve: Stir everything well, ensuring the sauce evenly coats all the noodles and vegetables. Continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
7. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from heat, garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and fresh chopped green onions. Serve immediately and savor your homemade Pan Fried Noodles!

Perfecting Your Pan-Fried Noodles: Tips for Success

While Pan Fried Noodles are inherently simple, a few key tips can elevate your dish from good to absolutely outstanding:

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Mise en Place is Your Friend: “Mise en place” means having all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a fast process, so you won’t have time to chop veggies or mix sauce once the heat is on.
• High Heat is Key: For truly great stir-fries, you need high heat. This ensures that vegetables cook quickly to a tender-crisp texture and noodles get that desired crispy exterior without becoming soggy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches if necessary, especially if you’re adding protein, is crucial. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, steaming the ingredients instead of stir-frying them, leading to a less desirable texture.
• Pat Noodles Dry: After cooking and rinsing your noodles, ensure they are as dry as possible before adding them to the hot oil. Excess water can lead to steaming, making the noodles soft rather than crisp. Tossing them with a little oil also helps prevent sticking and promotes crisping.
• Balance the Sauce: Taste your sauce before adding it to the pan. Adjust the soy sauce for saltiness, hoisin for sweetness and tang, and sesame oil for nutty aroma. A perfectly balanced sauce ties the whole dish together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Soggy Noodles: This is often due to under-frying or overcrowding the pan. Give your noodles space and time to brown and crisp up.
• Burnt Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly. Add it after the onion has softened slightly, and keep an eye on it to prevent burning, which can turn it bitter.
• Overcooked Vegetables: Stir-fried vegetables should be tender-crisp, retaining some of their bite and vibrant color. Don’t cook them until they are mushy.
• Too Much Sauce: A little sauce goes a long way. The goal is to coat the noodles and veggies, not to drown them. Stick to the recommended quantities and adjust only slightly if needed.

Customizing Your Pan Fried Noodles: Endless Possibilities

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily tailor it to your personal preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Add More Veggies!

Beyond the carrots and bell peppers, almost any stir-fry friendly vegetable can be added. Consider incorporating:

• Broccoli florets or broccolini
• Bok choy or other leafy greens like spinach or napa cabbage
• Baby corn for a sweet crunch
• Water chestnuts for extra crispness
• Snap peas or snow peas for fresh sweetness
• Edamame beans (shelled) for a boost of protein and color
• Mushrooms (shiitake, cremini) for an earthy depth
• Bean sprouts for an authentic Asian noodle dish texture

Remember to cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking and add denser vegetables earlier in the stir-fry process.

Boost with Protein

Transform this vegetarian dish into a hearty meal by adding your favorite protein. Cook your protein first, remove it from the pan, and add it back with the vegetables and sauce.

• Cubed Chicken or Pork: Marinate bite-sized pieces in a little soy sauce and cornstarch for extra tenderness before stir-frying until cooked through.
• Shrimp: Quick-cooking shrimp are a fantastic addition, adding a sweet and savory seafood element.
• Beef Strips: Thinly sliced beef (like flank or sirloin) can be quickly seared for a robust flavor.
• Tofu: For a plant-based option, press extra-firm tofu, cube it, and pan-fry until golden and crispy before adding to the stir-fry.
• Scrambled Egg: Quickly scramble an egg in the hot pan and break it into pieces to mix with the noodles.

Flavor Variations

Experiment with different sauces or spices to change the flavor profile:

• Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Ginger: Freshly grated ginger can be added with the garlic for an extra layer of aromatic warmth.
• Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end can brighten up the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These Pan Fried Noodles are a complete meal on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with other Asian-inspired dishes to create a more elaborate spread:

• Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: A classic appetizer that complements the noodles perfectly.
• Dumplings or Potstickers: Steamed or pan-fried, these savory pockets are a great accompaniment.
• Clear Soup: A light broth-based soup can be a refreshing contrast to the richness of the noodles.
• Simple Steamed Greens: A side of steamed broccoli or bok choy with a light soy-ginger dressing adds freshness.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Pan Fried Noodles make for a delicious and convenient next-day meal. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Allow the noodles to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat pan-fried noodles in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of oil. This helps to re-crisp the noodles slightly. You can also microwave them, but they might lose some of their crispy texture. Add a splash of water or broth if they seem a bit dry during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant ramen noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, discard the seasoning packet, and then follow the recipe to pan-fry them. Keep in mind that ramen noodles tend to be thinner and may crisp up faster than other noodle types.

What’s the difference between pan-fried noodles and lo mein or chow mein?

While often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. Chow mein (which our recipe resembles) typically features noodles that are pan-fried until slightly crispy. Lo mein noodles are usually softer and tossed with the sauce and ingredients without much frying, focusing on a chewy texture. Our Pan Fried Noodles emphasize that satisfying crispy texture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce, and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free (some brands contain wheat). Most rice noodles are naturally gluten-free and can be used as an alternative to egg noodles, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is already vegetarian as written. To make it completely vegan, ensure your hoisin sauce does not contain any animal products (some traditional recipes might use fish products, though most commercial brands are vegan-friendly). You can also add plant-based proteins like crispy pan-fried tofu or tempeh for a heartier meal.

Can I prepare components of this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepping ahead is a great way to save time! You can:

• Chop all your vegetables and store them in the refrigerator.
• Whisk together the sauce ingredients and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Cook and rinse your noodles, then toss them with a little oil and store them in the fridge.

With these components ready, assembling your Pan Fried Noodles will be even quicker!

More Easy Asian Dinner Recipes You’ll Love:

If you enjoyed this quick and flavorful dish, be sure to explore more of our easy Asian dinner recipes:

• Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
• Chicken Chow Mein
• Shrimp Fried Rice
• Honey Garlic Shrimp
• Kung Pao Chicken

For even more delicious inspiration, feel free to browse our Asian Category, packed with recipes to delight your taste buds!

If you create this recipe and love it, we’d be thrilled to see your culinary masterpiece! Snap a photo and share it on INSTAGRAM! Make sure to tag me @crunchycreamysweet so I can check it out and leave a comment! Happy cooking!

Pan Fried Noodles

Author: Anna

Pan Fried Noodles are one of the easiest Asian dinners you can make under 30 minutes! All you need is noodles, sauce and any stir fry veggies you like.

★★★★★

5 from 4 votes

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Prep Time
10 minutes mins

Cook Time
15 minutes mins

Total Time
25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Servings
4 servings

Calories
247 kcal

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 1 medium yellow onion chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 ½ cups thinly sliced carrots
• 1 bell pepper red or orange, sliced
• 2 cups cooked noodles (Chinese egg noodles, yakisoba, chow mein or Ramen noodles)
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• toasted sesame seeds for garnish
• 2 green onions chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. If your noodles are not cooked, prepare them now according to package instructions. Drain, toss with cold water, and 2 teaspoons of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat up one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
4. Add carrots and sauté until tender-crisp. Remove all sautéed veggies onto a plate and set aside.
5. Add the remaining oil to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Fry, without stirring too much, until they start to brown and some become crispy, then toss and fry other sides.
6. Add the sautéed vegetables back to the skillet with the noodles.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the veggies and noodles in the skillet.
8. Stir everything well to coat evenly and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
9. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving immediately.

Notes

• Best noodles for this dish include Chinese egg noodles, yakisoba, chow mein, or ramen noodles. You can often buy them pre-cooked for convenience.
• Feel free to use any stir-fry vegetables you like: broccoli, bok choy, baby corn, water chestnuts, snap peas, edamame beans, and mushrooms are all excellent choices.
• To add protein, you can incorporate cubed chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, or tofu. Cook the protein separately first, then add it back to the skillet with the vegetables and noodles.
• Please note that the nutrition value can vary depending on the specific products you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use a calorie counter you are familiar with for precise values.

Nutrition

Calories: 247kcal |
Carbohydrates: 34g |
Protein: 6g |
Fat: 10g |
Saturated Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 1mg |
Sodium: 698mg |
Potassium: 346mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 8g |
Vitamin A: 9010IU |
Vitamin C: 45mg |
Calcium: 40mg |
Iron: 2mg

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