Name: Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb linguini; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons Mirin; 1 cup julienned carrots; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 cup baby spinach, packed; 8 ounces white mushrooms, sliced; Handful of snap peas; 1 garlic clove, minced; 3 green onion stalks, sliced (whites and greens separated); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup peanuts, roughly chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1/4 cup dark soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste or minced ginger; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon chili garlic sauce; 1/4 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon chili pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a delightful kick, this Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry is exactly what you need. It combines tender linguini noodles with a medley of fresh vegetables, crunchy peanuts, and a wonderfully balanced spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends, this recipe delivers a satisfying, home-cooked meal packed with texture, aroma, and that authentic Thai-inspired heat everyone loves.

Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things beautifully simple but uses essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the nuttiness of sesame oil to the freshness of cilantro and the gentle heat of chili garlic sauce, everything works in harmony to bring this dish to life.

1 lb linguini: Use linguini as a great pasta substitute that holds sauce well and soaks up the flavors.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a toasty, aromatic foundation that’s a hallmark of many Thai dishes.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Used with the sesame oil for balance and a smooth cooking medium.
2 tablespoons Mirin: A subtle sweetness and acidity that brightens the stir fry and enhances the veggies.
1 cup julienned carrots: Provides crunch and a pop of orange color for eye appeal and texture contrast.
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Sweet and crisp, it complements the spicy, savory elements beautifully.
1 cup baby spinach, packed: Adds a fresh, leafy green note that wilts perfectly in the heat.
8 ounces white mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and meaty, they soak up the sauce while releasing their own juice for depth.
Handful of snap peas: Their natural sweetness and crunch bring freshness to every bite.
1 garlic clove, minced: Garlic infuses the stir fry with its unmistakable fragrant punch.
3 green onion stalks, sliced (whites and greens separated): Whites provide a mild bite in cooking, while greens are perfect for fresh garnish.
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped: Adds bright, citrusy notes and essential herbaceousness.
1/4 cup peanuts, roughly chopped: For crunch and nutty depth, used both inside and as garnish.
Sesame seeds for garnish: Enhances the nutty flavor and adds a pretty finishing touch.
2 teaspoons sesame oil: Extra oil to boost flavor in the sauce.
2 tablespoons light soy sauce: Provides salty umami to balance sweet and spicy notes.
1/4 cup dark soy sauce: Adds richness and depth of flavor with a slightly sweet undertone.
1/2 teaspoon ginger paste or minced ginger: Brings warmth and a subtle zing that brightens the dish.
1 teaspoon brown sugar: Rounds out the flavors with a touch of caramel sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon chili garlic sauce: The main spicy component that gives this stir fry its lively kick.
1/4 teaspoon Sriracha (or more as desired): Optional but highly recommended for layering heat and tang.
1/4 teaspoon chili pepper flakes (more as desired): Adds a final fiery punch for those who love bold spice.

How to Make Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry

Step 1: Whisk the Sauce

Start by whisking together all the sauce ingredients – sesame oil, light and dark soy sauces, ginger, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, Sriracha, and chili flakes – in a small bowl. This step is key because the sauce is what ties the entire dish together, delivering a perfectly balanced blend of sweet, salty, spicy, and umami flavors that will coat every strand of noodle and vegetable.

Step 2: Cook the Linguini

Cook the linguini until al dente according to the package instructions, then drain well. Linguini is an unexpected but genius choice here because its silky texture and slight chewiness mimic traditional Asian noodles wonderfully, making every bite delightful without being overpowering.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

While the linguini cooks, heat both the sesame oil and olive oil in a large skillet with high sides—high sides help keep everything contained during the stirring frenzy! Toss in mushrooms, carrots, bell pepper, baby spinach, and snap peas. Stir cook for 7 to 8 minutes until the veggies soften a bit and the mushrooms start to release their flavorful juices. This step brings out natural sweetness and adds beautiful layers of texture.

Step 4: Add Aromatics and Mirin

Next, stir in the minced garlic, the white parts of the green onions, half of the peanuts, and half of the fresh cilantro. Cook together for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant. Pour in the Mirin and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any caramelized bits on the pan’s bottom—these bits add incredible depth to your stir fry. Then, reduce the heat to low to gently marry all the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Linguini and Sauce

Now it’s time to toss the cooked linguini into the vegetable mixture along with the prepared sauce. Stir everything carefully to coat the pasta and veggies thoroughly. Let it cook for just one more minute to allow the sauce to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavors. This final quick toss ensures every mouthful is juicy and full of delicious heat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the top with the remaining peanuts, cilantro, green onion greens, and sesame seeds. These garnishes add a fresh crunch and a pop of color, making the dish look as amazing as it tastes. Serve your Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry hot and enjoy that perfect balance of spicy, savory, sweet, and crunchy in every bite.

How to Serve Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate your Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry from simple to spectacular. I love more chopped peanuts for crunch, cilantro for brightness, sliced green onion for its peppery freshness, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds that add subtle nuttiness and make your dish pop visually. These final touches keep the dish light and lively.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, pair this stir fry with light side dishes like a fresh cucumber salad, steamed jasmine rice, or fragrant Thai basil chicken. These sides balance and complement the spice levels while offering contrast in texture and flavor. Plus, they turn your meal into a delightful feast that feels hearty yet refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Serve the Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry in individual bowls garnished with edible flowers or lime wedges for a citrus burst. You can also plate it over a bed of crunchy lettuce or cabbage leaves for a fun, handheld casual option. Presentation is all about making the vibrant colors and textures shine, so have fun with it and get creative!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry holds up well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to keep the garnishes separate to preserve their crunch.

Freezing

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it if necessary. Place the stir fry in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind the texture of the vegetables might soften upon freezing and reheating, so consider freezing only the noodles and sauce if possible.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently to heat evenly and revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the best texture and flavor, though a quick zap can be a convenient shortcut.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for the Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry?

Absolutely! While linguini works wonderfully, you can substitute with rice noodles, soba, or even spaghetti. Just cook according to the package and adjust the cooking times slightly as needed.

Is there a vegetarian or vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply ensure that your soy sauces and Mirin are vegan-friendly and avoid any garnishes like fish sauce if you add extras. The rich sauce and hearty veggies provide plenty of substance on their own.

How spicy is the Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry? Can I adjust the heat?

The dish has a pleasant, moderate heat level thanks to the chili garlic sauce, Sriracha, and chili flakes. You can tweak the spice by adding more or less of these ingredients depending on your preference. It’s all about making it your perfect level of spicy!

Can I prep this dish in advance?

You can chop the vegetables and make the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to stir fry everything fresh when you’re ready to eat to retain the vibrant textures and flavors. The noodles also cook quickly, so it makes a fast meal once prepped.

What can I use instead of peanuts if I have allergies?

Great question! You can swap peanuts for toasted cashews, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for crunch and nuttiness while avoiding allergens. Just be mindful of any other nut allergies and adjust accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry is one of those rare dishes that manages to be both quick and effortless while delivering incredible flavor and texture every time. It’s a wonderful way to brighten up your weeknight dinner routine or impress guests without sweating over complicated steps. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this spicy, colorful dish becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!

Spicy Thai Noodle Stir Fry Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 26 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant and spicy Thai noodle stir fry featuring linguini tossed with a flavorful sauce made from soy, chili, and ginger, combined with fresh vegetables and garnished with peanuts and sesame seeds for a satisfying and colorful meal.

Instructions

Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, ginger paste, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, Sriracha, chili pepper flakes, and 2 teaspoons of sesame oil. Set this spicy, flavorful sauce aside for later use.
Cook the linguini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguini and cook until al dente, following the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms, julienned carrots, red bell pepper, baby spinach, and snap peas. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the mushrooms begin to release their juices.
Add aromatics & Mirin: Stir in the minced garlic, the white parts of the green onions, half the cilantro, and half the peanuts. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Pour in the Mirin and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate those rich flavors. Lower the heat to low.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked linguini to the skillet along with the prepared sauce. Toss to coat the noodles evenly and cook for another minute, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and cling to the pasta.
Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Top the noodles with the remaining peanuts, cilantro, green onion greens, and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce, Sriracha, and chili flakes based on your preferred spice level.
Use linguini or any long pasta as a substitute for traditional rice noodles if desired.
For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauces with tamari or gluten-free alternatives and use gluten-free noodles.
Add protein like tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a heartier dish.
Mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth; if unavailable, use a sweet rice wine or a teaspoon of sugar as a substitute.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir Fry
Cuisine: Thai