How To Make Kimchi Shin Ramen Noodle Soup

How To Make Kimchi Shin Ramen Noodle Soup

How To Make Kimchi Shin Ramen Noodle Soup

As a self-proclaimed noodle lady, noodles or pasta are always on my radar when I crave a go-to comfort meal. 

One of my favorite cozy dishes is a big bowl of instant ramen. With simple additions like scallions, bok choy, silken tofu, edamame, and especially a heaping scoop of spicy kimchi, I transform a humble block of ramen into a satisfying, flavorful meal that hits the spot every time.

This recipe highlights how easy it is to elevate convenience store or grocery store ramen with just a few ingredients. The addition of kimchi brings the heat and a punch of tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory broth. 

Top down of shin ramen noodle soup with kimchi. Black chopsticks pulling noodles from stoneware bowl

The Ingredients: Shin Ramyun Noodles Soup

Ramen: When it comes to instant ramen, I enjoy all kinds. If I’m aiming for something nourishing, plant-based, and packed with plant-based protein, Immi is my go-to. This ramen brand is free from MSG and animal products, making it a solid choice when I want a healthier option.

However, my absolute favorite instant ramen (which is not plant-based) is Nongshim Shin Ramyun. It’s incredibly flavorful and super spicy, and the noodles have the perfect chewy, slurp-worthy texture.

Just to note: I’m no instant ramen expert, I’m just really good at enjoying noodles. There are still so many brands and flavors I haven’t tried yet.

For more information on top instant ramen recipes, check out these articles:

kimchi in a bowl with black chopsticks coming from the bottom pullin gsome kimchi toward the camera

Other Ingredients

Kimchi: I love making homemade kimchi, but some of my favorite vegan options include:

Water: I typically use cups of water to cook the noodles according to the package instructions.

Frozen Veggies: I always add about 1/4 cup of whatever frozen veggies I have on hand. For this recipe, I use a mix of frozen corn, edamame, and peas.

Green Onions: If I have scallions in my fridge or garden, they’re definitely going into the broth or as a topper.

Sesame Seeds: A small but essential addition. I love sprinkling sesame seeds and drizzling a bit of sesame oil over the soup to enhance the flavor.

Aromatic Oil: This is a must for finishing off my ramen creations. I usually opt for chili oil, basil oil, or sesame oil for that perfect finishing touch.

Extra Protein: You can easily add your favorite protein to boost the heartiness of the dish. Options like tofu or a soft-boiled egg work great, depending on your preferences.

Substitutions

  • Swap shiitake mushrooms or bean sprouts for extra texture and flavor in place of frozen veggies.
  • For an extra kick, enhance the spicy flavors by adding chili flakes, Sriracha, or gochujang.
  • Use any instant ramen noodles you prefer—whether from a convenience store or grocery store, adjust the broth to your liking.
  • If you prefer a richer broth with less liquid, use less water and replace it with chicken brothsoup base, or any flavorful broth.

 

How to Make These Spicy Instant Noodles

This recipe is almost as easy as making plain instant ramen, with the added bonus of flavorful and healthy ingredients. 

Step 1: Prepare the ramen

Cook your instant ramen according to the package directions. If you’d rather skip the flavor packet, use vegetable broth instead, seasoning it with soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and ginger powder for a more customized flavor.

Step 2: Add frozen veggies

A few minutes before the ramen finishes cooking, toss in about 1/2 cup of your favorite frozen veggies (such as edamame, peas, or corn) for extra texture and nutrients.

Step 3: Assemble the bowl

Once the ramen is fully cooked, carefully spoon the noodles and broth into your soup or ramen bowl.

Step 4: Top with kimchi

Add a heaping scoop of spicy kimchi on top. This step is important, as cooking kimchi can destroy its beneficial probiotics, so it’s best to add it after the ramen is done.

Step 5: Add your toppings

Finish off your ramen with additional toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of aromatic oil (such as sesame oil or chili oil) for added flavor and texture.

4 ramen bowls in each corner of the photo

More Flavor Combinations

  • Miso & Seaweed: Stir in a spoonful of miso paste, add a couple of cloves of garlic for depth, and top with nori strips or sea kelp for an umami boost. For a unique twist, finish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
  • Coconut & Lime: Add a splash of coconut milk and a squeeze of lime for a creamy, tangy twist.
  • Peanut & Chili: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter and a dash of chili oil for a rich, spicy, and creamy broth.

Ramen is Love & Dietitian Approved

I’ve been making instant ramen long before I discovered that cooking was my true passion. It all started with adjusting the flavor packets, then I moved on to adding veggies, protein, and eventually fresh herbs, aromatics, and some fancier toppings. Here’s one of my all-time favorite instant ramen combinations:

 

Easy Instant Ramen with Shredded Veggies and a Pickled or Broth-Cooked Egg

This recipe takes me back to my college days when I used to drop a raw egg into the boiling broth to cook. Nowadays, I enjoy the egg either cooked in the broth or pickled and served on top for an extra punch of flavor.

 

For this recipe, all you need is a pack of shredded veggies like broccoli slaw or kale salad, an egg (pickled or raw), and some aromatics like chili oil, fresh basil, and toasted sesame seeds.

For more details on how I create nutritious and delicious ramen dishes, check out my article Shin Ramen Hacks where I talk about ways to upgrade your instant ramen. 

Top down of shin ramen noodle soup with kimchi. Black chopsticks pulling noodles from stoneware bowl

More Noodle and Pasta Recipes

Easy Glass Noodles Salad with Vegetables

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Peanut Stir Fry Recipe

Noodles with Spicy Tahini Stir Fry Sauce

 

Top down of shin ramen noodle soup with kimchi. Black chopsticks pulling noodles from stoneware bowl

Kimchi Shin Ramen Noodle Soup

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Kimchi Shin Ramen Noodle Soup is just one of many ways to doctor up instant ramen to make it more filling, flavorful, and appetizing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American, Japanese
Servings 2 servings
Calories 452 kcal

Equipment

  • medium sized pot
  • tongs or chopsticks
  • ladle

Ingredients
  

  • 6 oz instant ramen noodles 2 packages
  • 2 packets ramen seasoning see recipe notes
  • ½ cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • ½ cup kimchi Homemade or your favorite store bought brand
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, julienned
  • 2 tsp sesame oil or chili oil
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Optional Add ins

  • silken tofu, fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, sautéed bok choy, cilantro, chili oil/crisp, or fresh graded ginger.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the ramen

  • Cook your instant ramen according to the package directions. If you'd rather skip the flavor packet, use vegetable broth instead, seasoning it with soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and ginger powder for a more customized flavor.

Step 2: Add frozen veggies

  • A few minutes before the ramen finishes cooking, toss in about 1/2 cup of your favorite frozen veggies (such as edamame, peas, or corn) for extra texture and nutrients.

Step 3: Assemble the bowl

  • Once the ramen is fully cooked, carefully spoon the noodles and broth into your soup or ramen bowl.

Step 4: Top with kimchi

  • Add a heaping scoop of spicy kimchi on top. This step is important, as cooking kimchi can destroy its beneficial probiotics, so it’s best to add it after the ramen is done.

Step 5: Add your toppings

  • Finish off your ramen with additional toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of aromatic oil (such as sesame oil or chili oil) for added flavor and texture.

Notes

Other vegan ramen brands include Annie Chun'sMike's Mighty Good Craft Ramen, and Immi Instant Ramen. Check out this article by Peta on Vegan Ramen Options for more information. 
Note, I did not include water as an ingredient however, when you follow the ramen package instructions you will see how much water to include for cooking/ the broth. Option to swap out flavor packet for 5 cups vegetable broth with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp of each garlic, onion, and ginger powder. 
Nutrition Facts vary based on the ramen noodles used. 

Nutrition

Calories: 452kcalCarbohydrates: 61gProtein: 11gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 1896mgPotassium: 310mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2506IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 5mg
Keyword Noodles, soup
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Easy Glass Noodles Salad with Vegetables

Easy Glass Noodles Salad with Vegetables

Japanese Inspired Glass Noodles Recipe

This inspired dish, japanese glass noodles recipe (Harusame) is a new mealtime staple. It’s quick and easy to prepare, while also nutritious and delicious.

My Glass Noodle Salad recipe is inspired by a local takeout spot that closed in my area. I loved their Vermachelli Noodle Salad, so much so, I keep coming up with different delicious varioations of this recipe.

To make a Harusame inspired Glass Noodle Salad, you need some fresh veggies, 1 or 2 herbs, glass noodles, and a savory sauce of dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Depending on my mood I’ll whip up different sauces from a harusame-inspired sauce to Nuoc Cham Sauce to peanut sauce.

If it is your first time experimenting with glass noodles in the kitchen this will be one of your favorite new recipes!

 

Top down of glass noodle salad with baked tofu over top.

Why You Will Love This Japanese Glass Noodles Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and a versatile dish. You will want to create this every week. This recipe is:

Nutrient-Packed: This salad is full of fiber from the glass noodles and veggies. Moreover, fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. This is a great recipe for adding lots of veggies to your day. 

Quick and Easy: This is a quick and easy recipe because it is easy to throw together and can be ready in under 30 minutes!

Versatile: This recipe can be inspired by Japanese noodles, Vietnamese noodles, Thai noodles, or Korean noodles. It can be made into a vegan or vegetarian version.  It makes for a great main dish or side dish.

Makes Great Leftovers: This recipe might be even better when eaten the next day.

Now, let’s dive into the ins and outs of why I love this recipe, the recipe ingredients, how I make this Glass Noodle Salad, and more information on one of my favorite noodles, Glass noodles.

 

Close up of class noodles with baked tofu and vegetables in a white bowl

The Ingredients in This Glass Noodles With Vegetable Recipe

Glass Noodles

Chewy Glass noodles have many names, sometimes sweet potato noodles or Harusame noodles. You can find these noodles at Asian grocery stores or online. 

Don’t have Glass Noodles? No worries, you can substitute with another kind of noodles, such as spaghetti, ramen, cellophane noodles, or rice noodles. Sweet potato starch noodles have a chewy texture and are bland with a bit of starchiness. They do not taste like a sweet potato. 

The Veggies!

Here are the veggies I used, but feel free to use your favorites!

Grated Carrots: I like to use grated carrots for a light texture, flavor distribution, and sauce adherence.

Chopped Salad Greens: Chopped salad greens means every bite is full of greens.

Cucumber: Half-moon slices make for the perfect bite-size delicate cucumber.

The Garnish: Green Onion, Cilantro, and Peanuts: The garnish for this dish adds flavor, texture, and brightness.

Harusame Inspired Savory Sauce:  Dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. 

Optional Add-ins: Some other optional ingredients include baby spinach, red bell pepper, shiitake mushrooms, or sesame seeds.

How to Make Glass Noodles With Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Vegetables

  1. Cook the Noodles: Follow the package instructions to cook the glass noodles. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly.
  2. Arrange the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, place the cooked and slightly cooled noodles. Add the prepared colorful vegetables, arranging them evenly over the noodles.

Step 2: Make the Savory Sauce

  1. Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 3: Finish the Salad

  1. Top with Fresh Herbs and Nuts: Sprinkle the salad with freshly cut cilantro, green onion, and chopped peanuts.
  2. Drizzle with Nuoc Cham Sauce: Right before serving, drizzle the salad with your savory sauce.

Step 4: Add Protein (Optional)

  1. Choose Your Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding your protein of choice. Options include baked tofu, pressure-cooked chicken breasts, or grilled shrimp. Add the prepared protein to the top of your salad, and enjoy!

 

Glass noodles in a white bowl with chicken and vegetables

More Glass Noodle Salad Recipe Ideas!

Some other recipes that include glass noodles include:

Korean Japchae Noodles: You can even make a variation of Vietnamese vermicelli noodle salad with glass noodles. Often found in Korean restaurants these Korean glass noodles are made with red bell peppers, beef, and onions. Keep it a vegetarian japchae by using tofu instead of meat.  

Vietnamese-inspired noodle salad with Nuoc Cham Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar into 3 tbsp water. Stir in the lime, fish sauce, sweet chili sauce, garlic, and bird’s eye chilis.

Glass Noodles with Peanut Sauce: Toss your glass noodles in a simple, flavorful peanut sauce for a delicious and savory meal.

Noodles twirled around black chopsticks hovering over a bowl of Peanut Noodle Stir fry with veggies

FAQ: Glass Noodles

What are they: Glass noodles are made from the starch of mung beans, sweet potatoes, or tapioca. They are translucent in appearance when cooked.

These noodles are often sold dried. To rehydrate just soak the noodles in hot water or add to boiling water for 3-5 minutes (or per package instructions.)

Where to buy Glass Noodles: If you are lucky, your local grocer might sell them in the International Food Section. Also, you can find glass noodles in International and Asian Markets.

However, I live in a small town, so I purchase my glass Noodles off Thrive, but they can also be purchased off Weee! or Amazon.

How to use Glass Noodles: Glass noodles are versatile. Use them in stir-fries, soups, rice paper rolls, and salads. They absorb the flavors of the other ingredients in the dish prepared. Oh, and they are a gluten-free food!

Like This Recipe? More Recipes On The Addy Bean

Below are a few other recipes of mine you may enjoy.

Jalapeno Picked Eggs – great as noodle topper!

Spicy Tahini Noodles

Trader Joe&’s Thai Wheat Noodles Peanut Stir Fry Recipe

 

Are You Looking for Traditional Recipes? Try these!

 

Traditional Japchae recipe from this excellent food blogger specializing in Korean cooking

Traditional Japanese Vermicelli Noodles

Vietnamese Vermicelli Noodle Salad (Vegan)

 

Top down of japanese glass noodles recipe in a white bowl with tofu and vegetables

Japanese Inspired Glass Noodles with Vegetables Recipe

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Japanese Inspired Glass Noodles with Vegetables Recipe will be a new favorite. Inspired by one of my favorite Japanese Noodle dishes, Harusame, this salad is bright, refreshing, nutritious and delicious.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner, lunch, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine human
Servings 4 servings
Calories 412 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 set measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 Tongs

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 8 oz glass noodles see notes
  • 4 cups shredded or chopped salad greens
  • 1 cup grated carrot
  • 1 cup cucumber sliced in thin half moons

For the Harusame Sauce

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 3 tbsp seasme oil
  • 2 tbsp honey or other sugar of choice

For the Garnish

  • 1/4 cup peanuts
  • 1 cup cilantro, chopped or other soft herbs like basil, mint etc
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Vegetables

  • Cook the Noodles: Follow the package instructions to cook the glass noodles. Once cooked, drain and allow them to cool slightly.
  • Arrange the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, place the cooled noodles. Add the grated carrots, chopped salad greens, and cucumber slices. Toss gently to combine.

Step 2: Harusame Sauce

  • Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Whisk together until the ingredients are well blended and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Finishing the Salad

  • Top with Fresh Herbs and Nuts: Sprinkle the salad with green onions, fresh cilantro, and chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture.
  • Drizzle with Harusame Sauce: Pour the Harusame sauce over the salad and toss until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 4: Add Protein (Optional)

  • Choose Your Protein: For a heartier dish, add your choice of protein. Options include baked tofu, pressure-cooked chicken breasts, or grilled shrimp. Arrange the protein on top of the salad.

Notes

Glass Noodles: You can purchase at some grocery store chains. I purchase my sweet potato glass noodles through Thrive Market. Glass Noodles are also available on Weee! and Amazon
 

Nutrition

Calories: 412kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 798mgPotassium: 362mgFiber: 3gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 6154IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 3mg
Keyword Noodles, plant based, salad, vegan, vegetarian
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

 

Simple Grilled Shrimp On The Barbie Recipe

Simple Grilled Shrimp On The Barbie Recipe

A Simple Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie Recipe

Ode to the most popular seafood in the United States. Here is my Grilled Shrimp on the barbie with a Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce, your new favorite grilling recipe. 

Shrimp is, by far, the most consumed seafood product in the United States. Shrimp is delicious, versatile, and better yet, easy to cook with! Below, I’ll review how to make grilled shrimp, the sauce, some pairings, and some nutritional information about shrimp!

shrimp on the barbie on a platter

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is great for meal prepping for the week. I like to grill the shrimp on the weekend and make extra for shrimp salads, grain bowls, and sandwiches!

I love to make this recipe when the weather is nice! I love to spend time outside, so if I can cook dinner outside that’s even better!

 

Tools

Metal skewers (wooden skewers work too) – if you don’t have skewers you can cook the shrimp on a grill pan or even in a cast iron skillet.

Tongs

Grill – charcoal grill or gas grill works

Serving platter

shrimp on the barbie

Ingredients

Shrimp – I use Wild Gulf Large or Jumbo Shrimp

Melted Butter – you could use olive oil

Spice mixture: Old bay seasoning, kosher salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper. If you don’t have old bay seasoning a cajun seasoning will suffice. 

Garlic cloves

Fresh Lemon Juice

Fresh Parsley

Optional Ingredients: Hot Sauce, red pepper flakes, lime juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, or even some lemon zest. 

Step – By – Step Instructions

I usually like to keep a pound of raw shrimp in the freezer. Shrimp is super quick to thaw and easy to cook healthy recipes. From beginning to end, anyone can whip up a shrimp dinner in less than an hour.

Step 1: Prepping Shrimp

To thaw shrimp, take it out of the freezer and dump it into a large bowl. Place the bowl in the sink and run cold water over the shrimp. The shrimp will be thawed out in 15-20 min

Step 2: Cooking Shrimp

To cook this recipe you need a hot grill. Then, all you need to do is to skewer the shrimp and lay them on the grill. Flip the shrimp skewers halfway through and take them off when they are pink and curled in a “C” shape!

Enjoy the grilled shrimp alone, with my Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, or with a delicious dip! Perhaps something creamy, BBQ-y, or spicy!

shrimp on a plate with lemon wedge and parsley

How to Make The Sauce

Okay, this is possibly the easiest sauce ever.

Microwave option: Add all the ingredients to a microwave-safe bowl and heat for a minute. Butter pops when melting in the microwave so make sure you cover your bowl!

Sharper Tip: I cover it with the paper wrapping my butter comes in. 

Stove-top option: To make this sauce over the stove-top, add butter to the saucepan and melt over low heat. Once the butter is melted, add garlic salt, and pepper and continue to cook on medium-low heat for 5min. Cut the heat and your sauce is done!

Pairings with Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

There are infinite possibilities of pairing this grilled shrimp with lemon garlic butter sauce. I like to make extra shrimp so I can make easy simple shrimp recipes during the week. 

Plain alongside a delicious remoulade sauce: Think of this recipe as an easy homemade copycat Outback shrimp recipe. 

Grilled Vegetables: I like grilled squash and peppers with my shrimp but any of your favorite veggies works! Potatoes in a foil pocket are delicious, crunchy, and creamy!

Air Fryer Potatoes: Include as many herbs as you would like. Once, I was eating pasta with a friend and they dumped almost the entire dried basil container in the sauce. Honestly, it was frickin’ good.

Rice: Shrimp and wild rice or white rice. Save a little of that garlic lemon butter and spoon it over top of your rice.

Salad: Eat this over top of a colorful green salad with a spritz from a lemon wedge. Some other great salad pairings include Yogurt Cilantro Lime Slaw or Greek Salad. 

Beverages: Some great beverage pairings include a Frozen Strawberry Margarita, white wine, or my favorite, a Komchua Mocktail!

shrimp on the barbie on a platter

I LOVE Shrimp, But…

I love shrimp, I grew up eating shrimp on summer nights at the beach, but… from a sustainability point, I only enjoy shrimp every so often. 

I’ve done some research into how to shop for sustainable shrimp and learned quite a bit!

When purchasing shrimp, stick with shrimp from North America, avoiding foreign imported shrimp. North American-caught shrimp is more likely to be caught sustainably. Specifically, Wild Gulf Shrimp is the best to buy due to its stricter management protocols. However, one 2014 report shows, that despite those stricter management protocols, the discard rate of other sea creatures from those shrimp trawls is still at 64%. You can also look for certifications like Monterey Bay’s Seafood Watch, Wild American Shrimp, or the Marine Stewardship Council.

Look for the Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) label when purchasing Farm-Raised shrimp. The BAP makes sure the shrimp is raised without antibiotics and in the correct conditions to meet local environmental regulations.

Bottom Line:

Eat less shrimp and more sustainable seafood local to the region. For instance, purchasing from local fishermen and purchasing seafood like mussels, oysters, and clams can have a positive impact on our oceans and their ecosystems.

If you are interested in reading more about sustainable practices in the shrimp industry check out the references below.

References:

Five Facts That Will Make You Think Twice About Eating Imported, Farm-Raised Shrimp – Oceana.

Tiny crustacean, big transformation – Seafood Watch.

What You Need to Know About Wild and Farmed Shrimp – Food Print.

shrimp on the barbie

Enjoy This Recipe? Try These!

Healthy and Easy Southwest Quinoa Bowl Recipe

Greens and Ancient Grain Bowl

PF Chang’s Fried Rice: A Plant-Based Copycat Recipe

Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe with Garlic Herb Butter

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese a Trader Joe’s Copycat

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese a Trader Joe’s Copycat

Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe

This is one of my favorites for fall – trader joe’s butternut squash mac and cheese recipe!

It’s that time of year! Let’s bring our favorites to the Thanksgiving table! Some of my favorite recipes include stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and creamy Butternut Squash Mac n’ Cheese. 

Honestly, I could eat this Copycat Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese dish any time of year, but I especially love making it in October and November. Butternut Squash and winter squashes are so festive and fun in the fall, and they are delicious in this dish. Best of all, this pasta dish has a creamy sauce and is better than the frozen mac and cheese version from Trader Joe’s. I love how this recipe utilizes a kitchen blender to create a creamy and decadent sauce without loads of cheese rather it is filled with veggies!

Let me tell you how I make this recipe!

 

Butternut Squash Mac n’ Cheese Ingredients

Elbow Macaroni: I often opt for traditional macaroni for this recipe however, you can use a different short pasta shape such as penne, rigatoni, fusilli, farfalle, radiatori, or orecchiette. 

Butternut Squash: I use a can of squash puree (for convenience) in this recipe but you can use fresh, homemade roasted butternut squash puree too. 

The creamy squash is a flavorful and healthy addition to this sauce. It is loaded with nutrients like beta carotene (a precursor of Vitamin A). Squash also has a beautiful, golden-yellow color, excellent for this vibrant Mac n’ Cheese, and has a subtle sweetness I love. 

*THE SECRET INGREDIENT* Riced Cauliflower: This is my secret ingredient!

You can’t taste the cauliflower with all the cheese, pasta, and squash flavors. Cauliflower helps to make the sauce creamy and comforting. It also gives the sauce its signature velvety smooth texture after blending.

Cheese: I use 2 different cheeses in this recipe. I wouldn’t say I like to use pre-shredded cheese rather I shred my cheese. 

In this recipe, I use high-quality sharp cheddar. I usually add at least one more cheese addition to my casserole. You can try Mozzarella or Gouda, but for this recipe, I used Greyure. Greyure makes for a creamy rich sauce and I love how it mingles with the cheddar. 

Other Ingredients

  • Onion
  • Butter
  • Whole Milk
  • Fresh Cracked Pepper
  • Garlic Powder
  • Mustard Powder

 

 

Step-By-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Vegetables:
    • In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the riced cauliflower. Cook another 5 min, stirring occasionally. 
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • Add the butternut squash puree and milk. Heat through, about 2 min. Remove from stove and turn off the heat. Add these ingredients to a blender with black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Blend until smooth. 
  4. Combine ingredients:
    • Pour the blended mixture back into the saucepan. Incorporate 4oz cheddar cheese and 1 oz gryere cheese. Add fresh cracked pepper to taste. Mix until the cheese is melted. 
    • Note: The stove is off during this step, the cheese will melt from the heat of the puree. 
    • ​Add cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine, ensuring all the pasta is well coated with sauce. 
    • ​Pour the pasta mixture into a 9 x11 casserole pan. 
  5. Make Topping:
    • Mix Topping (1 oz gruyere, 2oz cheddar cheese, and panko bread crumbs).
    • Sprinkle with the panko/cheese topping overtop the macaroni and cheese mixture. 
  6. Bake and Serve
    • ​Bake at 350 uncovered for 30 minutes until heated through and the topping is browned and bubbly. 
    • ​Once the mac and cheese is removed from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

 

 

top down of butternut squash mac and cheese with a fork and linen

More Ingredients Additions to this Squash Mac n’ Cheese

 

What’s special about this Macaroni and Cheese recipe is its many variations. The cook can mix and match cheeses.

Cheeses: I refer to this article by Better Homes & Gardens to help with my cheese selection. 

More Flavor: Another fun option? Add a spicy element such as Harissa, jalapenos, or other peppers.

Veggies: Use veggies such as spinach, green beans, brussels sprouts, and tomatoes to make this pasta more veggie-packed.

Pasta: Even the pasta can be changed up! Make the recipe gluten-free with some simple ingredient swaps like gluten-free macaroni.

 

Macaroni and cheese with butternut squash and green beans

Try More Recipes

Burrata Caprese Salad Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Peanut Stir Fry Recipe

Quick Chopped Greek Salad: A Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Recipe

butternut squash mac and cheese

Butternut Squash Creamy Mac n' Cheese

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Butternut Squash Mac n' Cheese has a secret ingredient! Hint: it isn't Butternut Squash!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings

Equipment

  • Pasta Pot
  • Skillet
  • 9 x 11 Casserole Dish
  • cheese grater

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lbs elbow macaroni or other short pasta i.e. penne, rigatoni
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup riced cauliflower
  • 5 fl. oz milk 1 can
  • 15 oz butternut squash puree 1 can
  • 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated and divided some for sauce and some for melting over top casserole
  • 8 oz gruyere cheese, grated and divided some for sauce and some for melting over top casserole
  • 1 tbsp panko bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp fresh cracked pepper
  • ½ tsp mustard powder

Instructions
 

Cook The Pasta

  • Cook your macaroni according to pasta box instruction until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

  • In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the riced cauliflower. Cook another 5 min, stirring occasionally.

Make The Sauce

  • Add the butternut squash puree and milk. Heat through, about 2 min. Remove from stove and turn off the heat. Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth.

Combine ingredients

  • Pour the blended mixture back into the saucepan. Incorporate 6 oz cheddar cheese and 1 oz gryere cheese. Add fresh cracked pepper to taste. Mix until cheese is melted.
    Note: The stove is off during this step, the cheese will melt from the heat of the puree.
  • Add cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine, ansuring all the pasta is well coated with sauce.
  • Pour the pasta mixture to a 9 x11 casserole pan.

Make Topping

  • Make the topping, 2oz cheddar cheese, 1 oz greyure, and panko bread crumbs.
  • Sprinkle with the panko/cheese topping overtop the macaroni and cheese mixture.

Bake and Serve

  • Bake at 350 uncovered for 30 minutes until heated through and the topping is browned and bubbly.
  • Once removed from the ove,. let the macaroni and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Keyword pasta
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10 Recipes Using Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles

10 Recipes Using Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles

10 Ways to Use Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles in Recipes 

Thai Wheat Noodles from Trader Joe’s are fully cooked, ready-to-eat, and shelf-stable noodles perfect for quick and easy cooking!

Infographic for 10 ways to use Trader Joes Thai Wheat Noodles with a picture of the noodles, a bowl of noodles and the author

 

Why You Need To Try Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles

They are excellent for when you don’t feel like making a mess in the kitchen but want to have something nourishing, healthy, and delicious.

Because these noodles are preserved at room temperature, they are excellent in anything from stir fries to soups to your favorite power bowl with crispy tofu!

Below are 10 easy ways to make Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles!

 

Peanut Noodle Stir Fry in a large skillet with props including cilantro, green onions, peanut sauce, and a black bowl with chopsticks

Noodle Stir Fries

Thai Peanut Noodle Stir Fry

Peanut Noodle stir-fries are an excellent way to enjoy these noodles. Pair them with your favorite store-bought peanut sauce and veggies! 

Alternatively, make your delicious peanut sauce! It is super easy and you can make it with less than 5 ingredients! 

I love to top my Thai Peanut Noodle stir fry with Baked Tofu or a chili crisp fried egg. 

 

Stir Fry Noodle pull with chopsticks on a wooden cutting board.

 

Pad Thai Inspired Recipe

A Thai takeout fave, Pad Thai! Make your variation of Pad Thai with these thicker wheat noodles. Traditionally, Pad Thai is made with rice noodles, stir-fried with eggs, tofu, fish sauce, garlic, sugar, lime, and crushed peanuts.

Make a Pad Thai-inspired dish right at home with veggies like bean sprouts, bell peppers, onions, and your favorite protein of choice. I like to make a quick pad Thai sauce with fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sriracha!

Make an egg free Pad Thai by using a silken tofu scramble to replace the scrambled eggs!

 

Thai Noodle Curries

 

Red or Green Curry

I love to make a Thai Curry full of vegetables and tofu. I’ll make the curry and often serve it with rice. You can easily swap out the rice and enjoy a delicious Red or Green Curry dish with Thai Wheat Noodles. 

 

three bowls - a big pot of butter bean curry, a black bowl with a single serving of butter bean curry, and a small yellow bowl with herbs.

Massaman Curry

One of my favorite Thai curries is Massaman curry. It is spicy, salty, sour, and sweet! This creamy curry is made with coconut milk and infused with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and cumin.

Massaman curry is excellent as a warm and cozy meal. While traditionally served with chicken, I love adding tofu or even lentils. Opt for Thai wheat noodles instead of rice for a twist on this Thai Curry dish!

 

Top down of a blue dutch oven with Mexican Street Corn Soup in it

 

Thai Wheat Noodle Soups 

Chicken Noodle Soup

Thai Wheat Noodles make for a fun variation of chicken noodle soup. 

Just take your favorite chicken noodle soup recipe and exchange the noodles for Thai wheat noodles. 

 

Coconut Curry Noodle Soup

Change things up and make the chicken noodle soup a Thai-inspired Coconut Curry Noodle soup.

To make this, add lots of thinly sliced onion, ginger, garlic, mushrooms, red or green curry paste, coconut milk, and freshly squeezed lime!

 

Easy-Bake-Tofu-Grain-Bowl

Other Ideas for Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles

Noodle Power Bowl

Make a delicious and healthy power bowl by layering the Thai wheat noodles with lots of chopped spinach or other leafy green, chopped veggies, and your favorite salad dressing. 

 

I love to use my Spicy Cashew Dressing in a Thai Wheat Noodle power bowl! 

 

Vegetable packed Spring Rolls on a stoneware plate with a side of peanut sauce

Spring Rolls & Lettuce Wraps

Change up your spring rolls recipe by swapping the vermicelli noodles with Thai wheat noodles! Prepare them just like you would Vietnamese spring rolls, also referred to as salad rolls. You can use Nuoc Cham sauce as a dipping sauce or I love to use Peanut Sauce.

 

Maybe my favorite way to use these noodles is in lettuce cups! Cheesecake Factory makes amazing Thai Lettuce Wraps, but they use egg noodles. Recreate them at home and use Thai wheat noodles instead! You can have dipping sauces like hoisin, chili oil, or peanut sauce. Just cut iceberg lettuce in half and chop up your favorite add-ins like peanuts, bean sprouts, green onions, red pepper, shredded carrots, shredded chicken or baked tofu, and, of course, Thai wheat noodles. 

 

Have a blast mixing and matching ingredients to make individualized Spring Rolls and Thai Lettuce Wraps.

 

Like These Recipes? Check Out More Recipe Round Ups!

10+ Gluten Free Dairy Free Cookie Recipes

Quick and Easy 10+ Veggie Packed Recipes

32 Quick and Easy Flexitarian Dinner Ideas

 

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Peanut Stir Fry Recipe

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Peanut Stir Fry Recipe

Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce

This Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles recipe is nutritious, delicious, and ready in under 30 minutes! The perfect weeknight meal for when you don’t feel like making a mess in the kitchen. 

Trader Joes Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce in a stoneware pasta bowl with noodles swirled around black chopsticks

What are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles?

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles are fully cooked, ready-to-eat, and shelf-stable wheat noodles. One package contains three ready-to-use noodle packages located in the Trader Joe’s grocery aisle near ramen and other noodles. 

Per Trader Joe’s website, they are made from scratch by a supplier in Thailand. These noodles are soft, chewy, and delicious. 

Because they are preserved at room temperature, they are excellent in anything from soups to curries to stir-fries. 

Peanut Noodle Stir Fry in a large skillet with props including cilantro, green onions, peanut sauce, and a black bowl with chopsticks

Ingredients in this Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Recipe

This recipe comes together in a flash! The stir fry only requires 5 ingredients not including the sauce.

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles:

You could sub for another noodle of choice such as udon, soba, rice noodles, or even linguini. 

Vegetables: 

Feel free to customize this selection of veggies to suit your preferences or whatever you have available!

  • Red Bell Peppers
  • Onions
  • Green Onions
  • Cilantro

Easy Peanut Sauce:

This peanut sauce recipe comes together effortlessly and quickly.

  • Peanut Butter
  • Hoisin
  • Soy Sauce
  • Rice Vinegar – (lime juice would be excellent as well)
  • Ginger
  • Garlic

Peanut Noodle Stir Fry in a large skillet with props including cilantro, green onions, peanut sauce, and a black bowl with chopsticks

Step – By – Step Instructions

Delicious Peanut Sauce

  • In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together peanut butter, hoisin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and garlic until smooth.
  • Gradually add water, 1 tbsp at a time, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.

Prepare the Noodles

  • Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  • Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add minced onions and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  • Add sliced red bell pepper to the skillet.
  • Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Combine Everything

  • Add cooked noodles to the skillet with the stir-fried vegetables.
  • Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the noodles and vegetables.
  • Toss everything together until well coated and heated through about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

  • Transfer the stir-fried noodles and vegetables to serving plates.
  • Garnish with lime wedges, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
  • Serve hot and enjoy your stir-fried Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce!

Trader Joe's thai wheat noodles below a big pot of peanut sauce prepared noodles

Other Flavor Variations for this Peanut Noodles Recipe

Change up the Noodles 

You can use fresh noodles, egg noodles, ramen noodles, rice noodles, Banza Protein+ spaghetti.

Make It Spicy Noodles 

Add in any of the following, Sambal Olek, Sriracha, chili oil, red pepper, or Chili Crisp for a spicy sauce.

Make It Sesame Noodles

For more sesame flavor, omit the peanut butter and use tahini, drizzle toasted sesame oil to finish this dish.

Change up the Veggies

Use your favorite combination of vegetables, or use what you have on hand.

More Ways To Use Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles

The best part about Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles is their versatility in recipes. You can use them in soup, stir fry, or curry!

You could even make a variation of pad Thai using these noodles. Rather than rice noodles, use these wheat noodles. Then add a chili-fried egg over top for a delicious pad Thai-inspired recipe!

Check out my article 10 Easy Trader Joe’s What Wheat Noodles Recipes for more inspiration!

Benefits Of Thai Wheat Noodles

These Thai Wheat Noodles are Dietitian Approved! I love them for a variety of reasons. Check out my article all about the benefits of these noodles.

Infographic discussing the benefits of using Trader Joes Thai Wheat Noodles

FAQ (Ask A Dietitian)

How do you cook wheat noodles?

These noodles are already fully cooked, shelf-stable, and ready to eat! Depending on the dish, you might prepare these noodles slightly differently. Check out my article 10 Easy Trader Joe’s What Wheat Noodles Recipes for more info on how to make these noodles in 10 different dishes!

Are wheat noodles healthy for you?

Cooking wheat noodles in a dish with lean protein, vegetables, fiber, and healthy fats, is healthy for you! 

This Peanut Noodle recipe includes all of these things!

How long do these leftovers last in the refrigerator? 

These noodle leftovers will last about 3 days in the refrigerator. 

 

Noodles twirled around black chopsticks hovering over a bowl of Peanut Noodle Stir fry with veggies

Like This Recipe? Try These!

Noodles with Spicy Tahini Stir Fry Sauce

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Easy Vietnamese Inspired Peanut Sauce For Noodles

Peanut Noodles in a stoneware pasta bowl with noodles swirled around black chopsticks

Trader Joe's Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce uses Trader Joe's Thai Wheat Noodles and creates a savory delicious peanut noodle dish!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American, Thai-Inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 524 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 wok or large frying pan
  • 1 small sauce pan
  • measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

Stir Fry

  • 3 packages Trader Joe's Thai Wheat Noodles
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red pepper cut into strips
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil

Peanut Sauce

  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • ¼ cup Hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

Garnishes/Toppings

  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
  • ¼ cup green onion, chopped

Instructions
 

Prepare Peanut Sauce

  • In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together peanut butter, hoisin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and garlic until smooth.
  • Gradually add water, 1 tbsp at a time, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.

Prepare the Noodles 

  • Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  • Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add minced onions and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  • Add sliced red bell pepper to the skillet.
  • Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Combine Everything

  • Add cooked noodles to the skillet with the stir-fried vegetables.
  • Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the noodles and vegetables.
  • Toss everything together until well coated and heated through about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

  • Transfer the stir-fried noodles and vegetables to serving plates.
  • Garnish with lime wedges, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 524kcalCarbohydrates: 68gProtein: 17gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 1021mgPotassium: 385mgFiber: 6gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 1063IUVitamin C: 42mgCalcium: 62mgIron: 2mg
Keyword 30 minutes or less, Noodles
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!