If you’re craving something savory, a little sweet, and totally satisfying—these Thai peanut noodles are the move. Made in one pot with pantry ingredients and a bold, creamy sauce, this recipe keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor.
You just throw everything in the Instant Pot—no separate boiling, no draining. The noodles cook in the sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor while the pressure seals everything in. Toss in some veggies and finish with a hit of lime or chopped peanuts, and you’ve got a quick, no-fuss meal that tastes like takeout without the wait.
Why These Noodles Are So Easy and Good
This dish brings big flavor in a fraction of the time. Pressure cooking not only saves effort, but it also helps the noodles absorb the sauce from the start—so every bite tastes rich and balanced.
- One-pot cooking – Fewer dishes, faster cleanup.
- Customizable heat and texture – Adjust spice and add whatever veggies you like.
- The sauce clings to every noodle – Thanks to the natural starch from the pasta.
You’ll go from craving to plate in under 30 minutes—with less work than ordering delivery.
Simple Ingredients That Bring It All Together
These are pantry-friendly and easy to adjust. You don’t need anything complicated to make it taste great.
- Spaghetti or linguine – You can also use rice noodles if you reduce cook time.
- Peanut butter – Smooth and creamy is best; natural-style works too.
- Soy sauce – Adds salt and umami.
- Garlic and ginger – Fresh if you can, but paste or powder will still work.
- Lime juice and brown sugar – Balances acidity and sweetness.
- Sriracha or chili paste – Optional heat.
- Vegetables – Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or frozen peas work well.
Add toppings like chopped peanuts, green onions, or sesame seeds for texture and freshness.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Thai Peanut Noodles in the Instant Pot
This recipe is fast but layered with flavor. Make sure to follow the sequence so the noodles cook just right.
- Add the pasta and liquids
Break spaghetti in half and place in a criss-cross pattern to prevent sticking. Add water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a spoonful of brown sugar. Do not stir. - Cook under pressure
Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 4 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done. - Stir in the sauce
Immediately stir in peanut butter, lime juice, and sriracha if using. The hot noodles will help melt the peanut butter. - Add veggies
Stir in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Cover loosely with the lid for 2–3 minutes to let them steam in the residual heat. - Finish and serve
Garnish with chopped peanuts, scallions, or cilantro. Serve warm or at room temperature.
What Pairs Well with These Thai Noodles
Side Dish | Why It Works |
---|---|
Cucumber salad | Refreshing and light |
Thai spring rolls | Great for texture and dipping |
Edamame with sea salt | Quick, healthy snack on the side |
Coconut rice | Mild and slightly sweet, complements sauce |
Spicy mango slaw | Crunchy and bold contrast |
Roasted tofu bites | Adds protein and bite |
Steamed broccoli | Neutral and easy to add in |
Tips for Storing and Reheating
These noodles make great leftovers and are easy to store.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Microwave with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce. Stir halfway through reheating.
- Meal prep tip: Keep garnishes separate until serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Your Questions Answered
Can I make it with rice noodles instead of spaghetti?
Yes—reduce the pressure cook time to 2 minutes and do a quick release.
Does the peanut butter curdle under heat?
No. It blends in smoothly when added after pressure cooking.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Try tamari for gluten-free, or coconut aminos for a sweeter flavor.
Can I add protein?
Yes—stir in cooked chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even edamame after pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Thai Peanut Noodles
Equipment
- Instant Pot For pressure cooking noodles and sauce
- Measuring Cups To portion liquids and peanut butter
- Wooden Spoon For stirring ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti broken in half
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
- 1/3 cup peanut butter smooth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice fresh
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha optional, to taste
- chopped peanuts for topping
- green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place spaghetti in Instant Pot in a criss-cross pattern. Add water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Do not stir.
- Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 4 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done.
- Stir in peanut butter, lime juice, and sriracha. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Add shredded carrots and bell pepper. Cover loosely with lid and let steam in residual heat for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve warm. Garnish with chopped peanuts, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Use rice noodles instead of spaghetti for a gluten-free option. Reduce pressure time to 2 minutes.
- Add frozen edamame or tofu for more protein.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with a splash of water to loosen sauce.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.