Crockpot Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl

Name: Crockpot Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz rice noodles; 1 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish); Cilantro (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple Global Recipes

I love making a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen, and this Crockpot Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl is a quintessential example. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, I can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully. The rich, creamy peanut sauce and tender vegetables create a balance that's both satisfying and nourishing. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a cozy get-together, this dish always hits the spot.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:26:29.036Z

When developing this recipe, I experimented with different ratios of peanut butter and soy sauce to discover the perfect balance. I found that adding a splash of lime juice at the end elevated the dish even further, giving it a bright and zesty finish. The slow cooking allows the noodles to soak up the flavors and ensures that every bite is filled with delightful taste.

One specific tip I found invaluable was to slightly undercook the noodles before adding them to the crockpot. This way, they won’t turn mushy, and they will absorb the peanut sauce beautifully during cooking. Believe me, this makes a significant difference in texture and flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and nutty peanut sauce that wraps around every noodle
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies
Convenient slow cooker prep that allows for easy dinner planning

      

Noodles: The Foundation of Flavor

Choosing the right rice noodles is crucial for the texture of your Crockpot Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl. Look for fresh rice noodles if available, as they provide a silkier finish than dried noodles. However, if using dried rice noodles, it's essential to cook them just until al dente as they will continue to soften while absorbing the sauce in the crockpot. This method ensures they don't turn mushy, maintaining a satisfying bite.

When preparing the noodles, I recommend rinsing them under cold water after draining. This step helps to stop the cooking process and prevents them from clumping together. If your noodles tend to stick, a light drizzle of sesame oil can also help. This not only keeps them separate but adds a subtle flavor that complements the peanut sauce beautifully.

Mastering the Peanut Sauce

The peanut sauce is the star of this dish, and getting the right consistency is key. While whisking the sauce ingredients together, aim for a smooth texture that easily coats the back of a spoon. If you find the sauce too thick for your taste, you can thin it out with a bit more vegetable broth or lime juice until it reaches your desired consistency. This adaptability lets you customize the sauce to match your personal preference.

Each ingredient in the sauce plays a specific role. The fat from the peanut butter provides creaminess, while the soy sauce adds umami depth. Honey gives it a delightful sweetness, balancing the savory notes, while lime juice introduces a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness. If you're looking for a lighter version of the sauce, consider using reduced-fat peanut butter or substituting part of it with tahini for a different flavor profile.

Making It Your Own

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to get creative with the mixed vegetables! You can incorporate seasonal offerings like snap peas in spring or zucchini in summer. If you're a fan of additional flavor, mushrooms or snow peas add a delightful earthiness. Just be mindful of the cooking time; softer vegetables should be added later in the process to prevent them from becoming mushy.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can make this dish gluten-free by swapping out soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. If you're looking to boost protein, consider adding cubed tofu or shredded chicken along with the vegetables. Both options will absorb the flavors of the peanut sauce beautifully and make for a more filling meal. Just ensure that these additions are added with enough time to cook through—about 20-30 minutes would be ideal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz rice noodles
1 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
Cilantro (for garnish)

Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables based on what you have at home!

Instructions

Prepare the Noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until they're just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame oil until smooth.

Load the Crockpot

In the crockpot, layer the mixed vegetables followed by the cooked noodles. Pour the peanut sauce over the top, then add the vegetable broth.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, checking occasionally to stir and ensure noodles are absorbing the sauce.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, portion into bowls and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your meal!

This dish can also be refrigerated and reheated for lunch the next day.

Pro Tips

For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu to the dish. Adjust the amount of honey for desired sweetness.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Crockpot Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl is fantastic for meal prep! Once cooled, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and if the noodles appear too dry, a splash of broth or a little water can refresh them. When reheating, a microwave-safe dish with a damp paper towel on top works wonders for preventing dryness.

If you're looking to freeze the dish, I recommend undercooking the noodles slightly to ensure they don’t become mushy upon reheating. You can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. To reheat, let the frozen portion thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it on low in a saucepan with a bit of broth to regain that creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish is an opportunity to get creative! Beyond garnishing with chopped peanuts and cilantro, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving for an extra burst of brightness. You can also serve it alongside some warm naan or rice for a more substantial meal. A side of crisp cucumber salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich noodles.

For a dinner party, you could set up a DIY peanut noodle bowl bar. Offer additional toppings like sliced green onions, bean sprouts, or a sprinkling of chili flakes for those who enjoy a kick. This interactive element can turn a simple dinner into a fun gathering, encouraging guests to customize their bowls to their liking!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat noodles instead of rice noodles?

Yes, whole wheat noodles will work, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just be sure to check for vegetarian-friendly broth.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this noodle bowl?

You can serve it with spring rolls or a side salad for a complete meal.