These Simple Sesame Noodles take only 15 minutes to make, making them an ideal quick side dish or meatless main. Tossed in a savory sesame sauce with a hint of sweetness and heat, this easy Asian-style noodle recipe is crowd-pleasing, meal-prep friendly, and simple to customize.

When you need a no-fuss dinner that everyone will eat, these sesame noodles fit the bill. The recipe is vegetarian by default, but you can quickly turn it into a complete meal by adding leftover pork, chicken, beef, or shrimp. Serve the noodles as a main bowl or as a flavorful side to grilled proteins and vegetables.
They also make excellent leftovers. These noodles reheat well and hold up straight from the refrigerator, so preparing a batch in advance saves time during busy weekdays.
Ingredients for Simple Sesame Noodles
Below is a concise list of the ingredients used in this recipe. Exact measurements and step-by-step instructions are included in the recipe section further down.
- Noodles: 12 ounces spaghetti, pad thai, or rice noodles (regular or gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use gluten-free or tamari to make gluten-free)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- Spices: 1/4 teaspoon powdered ginger, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, crushed peanuts

How to Make Simple Sesame Noodles
Making these sesame noodles is quick and straightforward. The method is designed to keep the noodles flavorful without overworking them.
- Cook the noodles al dente according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking and remove excess starch.
- Return the drained noodles to the pot and place over low heat.
- In a small bowl combine the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, crushed garlic, powdered ginger, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir until evenly coated. Add butter and allow it to melt into the noodles.
- Serve hot or at room temperature and garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and crushed peanuts if desired.

Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free spaghetti or rice noodles and a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The flavors remain the same, so you can enjoy this dish whether or not you avoid gluten.
Are Sesame Noodles Good for Meal Prep?
Yes. These sesame noodles store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can be enjoyed cold, at room temperature, or briefly reheated. If you plan to reheat, add a splash of water or a little extra sesame oil to revive the texture.


Other Easy Dinner Ideas
- Gluten Free Broccoli Penne — a simple vegetarian pasta side or main.
- Chicken Spaghetti — a hearty pasta dish with chicken and cheese.
- Pesto Chicken Bake — a flavorful, low-prep protein option.
- Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice — ready in about 20 minutes, one-pan comfort food.
Simple Sesame Noodles — Recipe
Simple Sesame Noodles
Author: Annie Holmes
Servings: 6 | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Total: 15 mins
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or Pad Thai noodles (regular or gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon powdered ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Optional: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, crushed peanuts
Instructions
- Cook the noodles al dente following package instructions. Drain and rinse under cool water.
- Return noodles to the pot over low heat.
- Mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, crushed garlic, powdered ginger, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Pour over the noodles and stir to combine.
- Add the butter and let it melt into the noodles. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts if desired. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
To make this gluten free, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Nutrition (approximate per 1 cup)
Calories: 303 kcal | Carbs: 42 g | Protein: 8.9 g | Fat: 12 g | Sodium: 302 mg | Fiber: 6 g