Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the bold flavors of Asia right to your kitchen! Our Spicy Peanut Noodles with Sesame Meatballs is not just a meal; it's an experience that combines the creaminess of peanut butter, the heat of sriracha, and the savory goodness of perfectly cooked meatballs. In just 45 minutes, you can create a feast that serves four and leaves everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Dive in and discover the secrets to making this delectable dish that will have everyone talking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz. spaghetti or rice noodles
- 1 lb. ground pork or chicken
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork (or chicken), minced garlic, half of the chopped green onions, 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until well combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter. You should yield around 16-18 meatballs.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place meatballs in the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides. Meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- While meatballs are cooking, prepare the sauce by whisking together peanut butter, remaining soy sauce, sriracha, and a splash of water to create a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti or rice noodles according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- Toss cooked noodles with half of the prepared peanut sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Plate the sauced noodles, top with cooked meatballs, drizzle remaining sauce, and garnish with remaining green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips
- Meatball Magic: For extra flavor, let the meat mixture sit for a few minutes before shaping the meatballs. This allows the garlic and seasonings to infuse into the meat.
- Perfectly Cooked Meatballs: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe and juicy results.
- Noodle Choices: Feel free to swap spaghetti for rice noodles if you prefer a gluten-free option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodles you choose.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your spice tolerance. For a milder version, start with less and add more as needed.
- Garnish for Greatness: Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh green onions and sesame seeds add not only flavor but also a beautiful presentation to your dish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator and cook the noodles just before serving for a quick weeknight dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
