Chilli beef udon noodles

Using beef mince keeps costs down for these speedy but tasty chilli beef noodles. Ready in less than 15 minutes this is ideal for your midweek chilli hit.

In November 2023, this recipe was costed at an average of £1.90 per portion when checking prices at four UK supermarkets. The recipe is designed to be made in conjunction with a low-cost store-cupboard.

Each serving provides 572 kcal, 35g protein, 28g carbohydrate (of which 7.6g sugars), 34g fat (of which 11g saturates), 6.7g fibre and 2.2g salt.

One reader, Jamie, says: “Absolutely loved this chilli beef udon recipe! The flavors were spot on—just the right amount of heat and so satisfying. I added some extra veggies and it still turned out fantastic. Will definitely make again! ★★★★★”

This is my favorite chilli beef noodles recipe, one that I’ve made over and over again. It’s one of those comforting classics you start to know by heart, just like a good stir-fry or homemade soup. Whenever I’m craving something hearty and full of flavor, this dish is always my first choice. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy nights in.

It’s one of the most popular recipes I’ve published on this website, out of over 1,200.

One reader, Sam, commented: “This chilli beef noodles recipe is a total winner! It’s packed with flavor and comes together so quickly. My friends always ask for seconds—definitely a new favorite in our house! ★★★★★”

Yes, I have this recipe on speed dial too! 😉

I’ve tried so many noodle recipes over the years, but once I made this chilli beef noodles recipe, it instantly became my favorite and I never looked back.

Why You’ll Love This Chilli Beef Noodles Recipe Too

• Bold, savory-sweet chili beef flavor
• Perfect balance of spice and umami
• Tender beef and chewy noodles in every bite
• Satisfying and filling, but not heavy
• Quick and easy to make—weeknight friendly
• Great for leftovers and reheats well
• Delicious as is, or customize with extra veggies or a sprinkle of sesame seeds

Ingredients

For the chilli beef

1. 1 tbsp vegetable oil
2. 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3. 2 red chillies, seeds removed and finely chopped
4. 500g/1lb 2oz beef mince
5. 300g pack straight-to-wok udon noodles
6. ½ Savoy or sweetheart cabbage, shredded
7. 2 tbsp salted, roasted peanuts, lightly crushed, to garnish
8. 2 spring onions, thinly sliced, to garnish

For the sauce

1. 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter
2. 2 tbsp soy sauce
3. 1 tbsp cider or wine vinegar
4. 1 tsp dried chilli flakes
5. 200ml/7fl oz just-boiled water

Method

1. To make the chilli beef, heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan and stir-fry the garlic, chilli and beef mince for 5 minutes until nicely browned.
2. Meanwhile, to make the sauce, place the peanut butter, soy sauce, vinegar, chilli flakes and water in a small saucepan and heat together gently, stirring until well blended.
3. Add the noodles and cabbage to the wok and cook for a further 4–5 minutes until piping hot and the beef mince is cooked through. Pour the sauce over the noodles, toss well together then divide between serving bowls. Scatter with the peanuts and spring onions and serve.