Made with veggies, chili, garlic and coriander, this dish has a perfect mix of taste and flavours. In fact, you can add a Korean touch by adding some sesame seeds. The addition of mozzarella, adds a punch of healthy proteins, which makes it super tasty. Loaded with the goodness of protein, fiber and essential nutrients, this dish has it all! You can pack this dish for office and school lunch or else you can serve it as a dinner for busy weekdays.
Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for Chili Cheese Noodles:
Ingredients
For the noodles:
- 200g noodles (any type you like: spaghetti, ramen, or instant noodles)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red, green, or both)
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust based on spice tolerance)
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- Salt to taste
For the cheese sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (warm)
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- 1/4 tsp paprika or red chili flakes (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional, depending on the cheese)
For garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or spring onions, chopped
- Extra grated cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Boil the noodles in salted water as per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies
- Heat oil in a large pan or wok.
- Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add onions and cook until translucent.
- Add bell peppers and chilies; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Toss in the chopped tomatoes, soy sauce, chili sauce, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until golden (this is a roux).
- Gradually add warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Cook the sauce until thickened.
- Stir in the grated cheese and paprika or chili flakes. Cook until the cheese melts.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the veggies and toss well.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the noodles and mix gently.
- Garnish with cilantro or spring onions, and extra cheese if desired.
Tips:
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more/less chilies or chili sauce.
- Use whole-grain or low-carb noodles for a healthier version.