10 Cheap Noodle Bowl Ideas

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Transform simple ingredients into satisfying meals with minimal effort and cost.

We’ve collected 10 cheap noodle bowl ideas that combine fresh flavors with budget-friendly ingredients to create filling, delicious dishes.

Whether you’re craving Asian-inspired comfort food or just want a quick weeknight dinner, these versatile recipes have you covered!

Chili Garlic Noodle Bowl

The Chili Garlic Noodle Bowl is a quick, tasty dish that packs a punch.

With the perfect balance of heat from the chili and depth from the garlic, this bowl is a delightful option for those who enjoy bold flavors.

It’s super easy to make, making it great for busy weeknights or a last-minute meal.

This noodle bowl features simple ingredients that come together quickly. The garlic, chili, and soy sauce blend create a savory sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.

Top it off with fresh green onions for a burst of color and extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces noodles (any kind you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Noodles: Stir in the cooked noodles and add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
4. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Enjoy your spicy, savory Chili Garlic Noodle Bowl!

Lemon Basil Pasta Bowl

This Lemon Basil Pasta Bowl is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fresh flavors. Thanks to the lemon and basil, it’s bright and zesty, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal.

Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy lemon gives this pasta a refreshing twist.

You can serve it warm or at room temperature, so it works well for any occasion. Add in some cheese for extra creaminess, and you have a bowl of sunshine in every bite!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix Everything: Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and basil to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Top with Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Vegetable Stir-Fry Ramen

Vegetable Stir-Fry Ramen is a simple and delicious dish that bursts with flavor.

This noodle bowl combines fresh vegetables with tender ramen, creating a satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time. The mix of colorful veggies adds not only nutrition but also a vibrant look to your bowl.

The taste is a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet, enhanced by a hint of soy sauce and sesame oil.

Whether you’re a busy student or just looking for a quick dinner option, this recipe is perfect for anyone craving something wholesome yet easy to make.

Ingredients

• 2 packs of ramen noodles
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 soft-boiled egg (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions in a pot of boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then add bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and zucchini. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
3. Add Spinach and Noodles: Toss in the baby spinach and cooked ramen noodles. Pour in soy sauce and rice vinegar, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
4. Serve: Divide the stir-fried ramen into bowls. Top with chopped green onions and a soft-boiled egg if desired.

Curry Coconut Noodle Bowl

This Curry Coconut Noodle Bowl is a delightful mix of flavors that dance on your palate.

The creamy coconut milk blends beautifully with aromatic curry spices, creating a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.

It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

• 8 oz rice noodles
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• 1 cup shrimp or tofu (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In a large pot, combine coconut milk, vegetable broth, red curry paste, soy sauce, and lime juice. Heat over medium heat until simmering.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables and optional shrimp or tofu. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender and shrimp is cooked through.
4. Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the pot and toss everything together to coat the noodles with the sauce.
5. Serve: Divide the noodle bowl into serving dishes and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy your deliciously satisfying curry coconut noodle bowl!

Garlic Soy Sauce Udon

Garlic Soy Sauce Udon is a quick and tasty dish that brings a burst of flavor to your meal. The rich, savory sauce pairs perfectly with the chewy udon noodles, creating a comforting and satisfying bowl.

This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual lunch. You just need a few ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious noodle bowl in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 servings of udon noodles
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Optional: chili flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

1. Cook the Udon Noodles: Boil the udon noodles according to the package instructions, usually for about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: Heat the sesame oil and minced garlic in a pan over medium heat. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Combine: Add the soy sauce and sugar to the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
4. Toss the Noodles: Add the cooked udon noodles to the pan and toss them in the sauce until fully coated.
5. Serve: Transfer to bowls, and top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Add chili flakes if desired. Enjoy your Garlic Soy Sauce Udon!

Miso Tofu Noodle Soup

Miso Tofu Noodle Soup is a warm, comforting dish that bursts with umami flavor. It’s a delightful blend of soft tofu, savory miso, and savory noodles, making it a satisfying meal for any day.

It’s incredibly simple to whip up, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

The miso paste gives the soup a rich, earthy taste, which pairs beautifully with fresh veggies and hearty noodles.

This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile dish that fits any palate.

Ingredients

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons miso paste
• 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
• 200g rice noodles
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Optional: chili flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: Bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer in a large pot. Stir in the miso paste until fully dissolved.
2. Add Ingredients: Add the cubed tofu, sliced mushrooms, and soy sauce to the pot. Let them cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Noodles: Add the rice noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until they are tender.
4. Finish with Greens: Stir in the green onions and spinach or bok choy. Allow them to wilt for about 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve: Drizzle with sesame oil and add chili flakes if desired. Enjoy hot!

Spicy Peanut Butter Noodle Bowl

This Spicy Peanut Butter Noodle Bowl is a delightful mix of flavors that pack a punch. It’s creamy, spicy, and nutty, making it a satisfying dish that is super easy to whip up.

This noodle bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat. It will have you coming back for seconds!

The recipe combines simple ingredients, so you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.

You can adjust the spice level to your preference, and it’s a great way to use up any veggies you have on hand. Serve it hot or cold, and enjoy a bowl of tasty goodness!

Ingredients

• 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, rice noodles, or your choice)
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup warm water (to thin the sauce)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts (for topping)

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, honey or maple syrup, lime juice, and warm water until smooth.
3. Combine the cooked noodles with the sauce, shredded carrots, and bell peppers in a large mixing bowl. Toss to coat everything evenly.
4. Serve the noodles in bowls, topped with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts for added crunch.
5. Enjoy your delicious Spicy Peanut Butter Noodle Bowl!

Teriyaki Chicken Noodles

Teriyaki Chicken Noodles bring a delightful taste of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen.

This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, perfectly paired with noodles and fresh vegetables.

It’s simple to make, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends.

The flavors are a fantastic balance of sweetness and saltiness, complemented by the crunch of broccoli.

This dish is delicious and customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the sauce to suit your taste. Let’s get started on making this flavorful bowl of goodness!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or udon noodles
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions in a large pot of boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Chicken: Heat vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Sauce: Pour in teriyaki sauce and soy sauce, stirring to coat the chicken. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
4. Add Broccoli: Stir in broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Toss with Noodles: Add the cooked noodles and sesame oil to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
6. Serve: Plate the noodles and chicken, topping with sesame seeds for garnish. Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Noodles!

Egg Drop Noodle Soup

Egg Drop Noodle Soup is a comforting and savory dish that warms the soul with every spoonful.

The combination of silky egg ribbons and tender noodles creates a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with a rich, flavorful broth.

This soup is delicious and incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy lunch.

The flavors of the broth are enhanced by a hint of ginger and the freshness of green onions, making each bite satisfying.

It’s also highly customizable—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying noodle bowl that will quickly become a go-to recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cooked noodles (spaghetti or egg noodles)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 3 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a pot, bring the broth to a simmer over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
2. Cook the noodles in the broth until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Beat the eggs in a bowl. Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the simmering broth while stirring gently to create egg ribbons.
4. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

Szechuan Noodle Salad

Szechuan Noodle Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that brings the heat and zest of Szechuan cuisine to your table.

With its spicy kick and fresh veggies, this dish is tasty and super easy to whip up, making it a perfect go-to recipe for a quick lunch or dinner.

The combination of chewy noodles, crisp peppers, and a savory dressing creates a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and filling.

It’s a great way to enjoy a refreshing salad while still indulging in the richness of noodles without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust for spice level)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil a pot of water and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili paste, garlic, and ginger until combined.
3. Combine Ingredients: Toss the cooled noodles with sliced bell pepper and green onions in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.
4. Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired, and enjoy your Szechuan Noodle Salad chilled or at room temperature.