Satisfy your craving for takeout without leaving the house! This succulent Asian classic is an easy homemade lunch or dinner.
Almost everyone I know favors pan-fried noodles when we go out for Asian food. This recipe changes the game by achieving restaurant-level noodles at home! It has the same savory flavors and satisfying textures—salty, saucy, spicy, a little crispy. But when you craft it from scratch, you can make as much as you want, exactly the way you want it.
What’s special about pan-fried noodles is the sauce. It’s a mouthwatering combo of sautéed garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. There’s something about this mix that leaves me wanting more with every bite. So be careful—this might become the next dinner addiction for your family. With a veggie-licious harmony of shredded carrots, fresh and crunchy bean sprouts, and vibrant green onion garnish, pan-fried noodles are designed to satisfy cravings faster—and better—than takeout. Plus, since they only take 25 minutes to prep and pan-fry, these noodles are as good for quick weeknights as they are for special occasions.
Are Pan-Fried Noodles Healthy?
Since they’re mostly carbs and contain a fairly high amount of sodium, pan-fried noodles are best enjoyed in moderation. There is, however, a small amount of protein in each serving, and the carrots, bean sprouts and green onions add a little extra nutrition. You can amp up the nutrients further by adding more veggies, like sautéed broccoli or snow peas.
Is This The Same As Lo Mein Noodles?
When we get Chinese takeout at our favorite spot, my best friend almost always gets lo mein. While this recipe is nearly identical to his Asian food favorite, there are a couple subtle differences that all noodle-lovers should know. The main distinction is that pan-fried noodles are fried until they’re slightly crispy, whereas lo mein remains soft and extra saucy. Plus, lo mein noodles don’t always include bean sprouts, which are a fresh and crunchy highlight of this pan-fried noodles recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Although this recipe yields just enough for a family of four, you might have leftovers. Once cooled to room temperature, pan-fried noodles can be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated for 2-3 days. I don’t recommend freezing. Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat with a dash of oil until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Dress your finished pan-fried noodles with freshly chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime juice. The tanginess of the lime balances out the salt and spice nicely. Pan-fried noodles are best enjoyed with other Asian classics like Sweet-and-Sour Chicken, Broccoli-Tofu Stir-Fry, Asian Garlic Shrimp, Soy Sauce Chicken, and Crisp Air-Fryer Egg Rolls. Personally, I like to top my pan-fried noodles with Crispy Baked Tofu and pair it with a zesty Asian Cabbage Salad. But the possibilities are nearly endless!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 12 ounces fresh noodles such as Hong Kong style or chow mein, cooked and drained
- 3 1/2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/3 cup green onions sliced (plus more for optional garnish)
- Salt to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Lime slices for serving
Instructions
- Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and shredded carrots. Sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add drained noodles to the pan. Mix soy sauce with cornstarch, then drizzle over the noodles. Add hoisin sauce and sesame oil to the pan. Toss gently and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until noodles are coated and slightly crispy.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions. Stir-fry for another minute. Taste, add salt if needed, then remove from heat.
- Plate the noodles while hot. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional green onions. Enjoy immediately, and add a squeeze of lime if desired for extra zest.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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