Udon noodles are thick Japanese noodles that can be enjoyed in stir-fries, salads, and soups. They’re filling, comforting and easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights! We’ve rounded up 11 of the best Udon Noodle Recipes, each of which is quick, easy to make, and full of delicious flavor!

What are Udon Noodles?

Udon is a type of thick Japanese noodle made with wheat flour. It is considered a comfort food among Japanese people and is a staple in Japanese cuisine. Udon is often served in soups, stir-fries, and salads. 

What Do Udon Noodles Taste Like?

Udon noodles are mildly flavored and have a bouncy, chewy texture. They are versatile, easy to cook, and delicious in hot foods as well as cold salads. 

How to Cook Udon Noodles

Udon noodles cook quite quickly. Add one packet of noodles per serving to a pot of boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes and then drain. Add the cooked noodles to a bowl with udon noodle soup and serve with your favorite toppings.

Udon vs Soba Noodles

Udon noodles are thick and white in color, and have a bouncy, chewy texture. Soba noodles are thin, similar to spaghetti, and are brown. Udon is typically served in noodle soups with hot broth, in stir-fries, and in cold salads. 

Best Udon Noodle Recipes

Beef Udon Noodles Stir Fry

Serve this flavorful beef udon stir-fry with gyoza dumplings for the perfect Japanese-themed meal!  It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and is full of delicious flavor. 

Yaki Udon Noodles

You’ll love the flavors of this one-dish stir-fried udon noodle dish! Use whatever veggies you have on hand, and your favorite protein. It’s ready to enjoy in just 15 minutes – making it ideal for busy weeknights! 

Chicken Udon Noodles

Your family will rave about the flavors of this simple udon stir-fry! It has a delicious sauce that’s the perfect  blend of savory, tart, sweet and spicy. 

Udon Noodle Bowl

You’ll love the flavors of this easy udon noodle soup, and it has just 257 calories per serving! Serve it to your family on Meatless Mondays. 

Spicy Udon Noodles Stir Fry

This dish is perfect if you’re a fan of spicy food. It’s loaded with veggies and has just the right amount of heat. 

Udon Noodle Soup

Serve this satisfying udon noodle soup as a satisfying lunch when the weather is cold! It takes just 10 minutes to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.  

Tempura Udon Noodles

Tender udon noodles topped with crispy tempura shrimp is a match made in food heaven! Enjoy this dish for lunch or as a light evening meal. 

Japanese Udon Noodles with Soft Eggs

Simple and nourishing, this dish can also be enjoyed for breakfast! Each serving is topped with an egg, and is an excellent source of protein. 

Shrimp Udon

Shellfish lovers will enjoy the combination of shrimp, udon noodles, and veggies in this dish. It’s ready to enjoy in less than 30 minutes and is super easy to make!  

Hoisin Chicken Udon Noodles

This simple udon dish features a sweet and salty hoisin sauce that pairs beautifully with the chicken. Serve it to your family for an easy-breezy weeknight meal! 

Stir Fried Spicy Garlic Udon Noodles

Each serving of this delicious udon noodle dish has 21 grams of healthy protein and 6 grams of fiber! Make a plan to serve it at next week’s Meatless Monday.