A curated roundup of 8 easy Korean wheat noodle recipes perfect for busy weeknights. These dishes are quick, flavorful, and ideal for anyone craving comforting Korean flavors at home.
Craving something cozy, satisfying, and full of flavor—but short on time? Korean wheat noodle recipes are your perfect weeknight solution. From spicy cold bowls to warm, soothing soups, these dishes deliver bold tastes without complicated steps.
In this post, we’ve rounded up 8 easy Korean wheat noodle recipes from some of the top food blogs. Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or a seasoned noodle lover, these meals are quick to make, deeply comforting, and endlessly slurpable.
Why These Recipes Work
Korean wheat noodle recipes are popular because they are simple, tasty, and versatile. These dishes come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights. They offer a great mix of flavors—spicy, savory, and comforting—all in one bowl. Plus, many recipes can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins. These noodles also provide a satisfying texture that feels hearty without being heavy. Whether you want something warm or cold, spicy or mild, these recipes fit the bill while bringing a touch of Korean comfort food to your table.
Contents
8 Easy Korean Wheat Noodle Recipes for Weeknight Dinners
🍜 1. Janchi Guksu (Banquet Noodles)
A warm, light noodle soup often served at Korean celebrations. The noodles are thin and tender, soaked in a clear, savory broth flavored with anchovies and vegetables. This dish offers a comforting, clean taste perfect for any night.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Prepare a simple anchovy broth with dried anchovies and kelp.
- Cook wheat noodles until tender.
- Drain noodles and place in bowls.
- Pour hot broth over noodles.
- Garnish with sliced egg, seaweed, and green onions.
Time: 30 minutes
Tags: Gluten, Comfort Food, Soup
Recipe Credit: Korenbapsang
💡 Tip: Use fresh anchovies for a more aromatic brot
Check Full Recipe-koreanbapsang
🍜 2. Bibim Guksu (Spicy Cold Noodles)
A refreshing cold noodle dish with chewy wheat noodles tossed in a spicy, tangy sauce made with gochujang (Korean chili paste), vinegar, and sesame oil. It’s perfect for warm days or when you want a quick, flavorful meal.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Cook and chill wheat noodles.
- Mix gochujang, vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil for the sauce.
- Toss noodles in the spicy sauce.
- Add sliced cucumber, boiled egg, and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately cold.
Time: 20 minutes
Tags: Vegetarian, Spicy, Cold Dish
Recipe Credit: Korean Bapsang
💡 Tip: Adjust the gochujang amount for desired spice level.
Check Full Recipe-koreanbapsang
🍜 3. Kalguksu (Knife-Cut Noodle Soup)
Features handmade wheat noodles cut with a knife, served in a rich broth made from anchovies or chicken. The soup is hearty and soothing, with soft noodles and a mild, savory flavor that warms the soul.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Prepare anchovy or chicken broth.
- Make or use fresh wheat noodles sliced by hand.
- Cook noodles in boiling broth until tender.
- Add vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
- Season with salt and garnish with scallions.
Time: 40 minutes
Tags: Comfort Food, Soup, Homemade Noodles
Recipe Credit: My Korean Kitchen
💡 Tip: Freshly cut noodles give the best texture, but store-bought works too.
Check Full Recipe-mykoreankitchen.com
🍜 4. Jjolmyeon (Chewy Spicy Noodles)
Jjolmyeon is a cold noodle dish with chewy wheat noodles mixed in a spicy, sweet, and tangy sauce. It’s topped with crunchy vegetables and is a popular street food perfect for hot weather and quick meals.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Boil and rinse chewy wheat noodles.
- Prepare a sauce with gochujang, vinegar, sugar, and garlic.
- Toss noodles with the sauce.
- Add julienned cucumber, carrots, and kimchi.
- Serve chilled with sesame seeds.
Time: 25 minutes
Tags: Vegan, Spicy, Cold Dish
Recipe Credit: Korean Bapsang
💡 Tip: Use cold water to rinse noodles to keep their chewy texture.
Check Full Recipe-koreanbapsang
🍜 5. Gochujang Noodles with Vegetables
This dish combines wheat noodles with a spicy and savory gochujang-based sauce, mixed with fresh vegetables for a quick, colorful meal. The balanced heat and sweetness make it both vibrant and comforting.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Cook wheat noodles and drain.
- Stir-fry garlic and vegetables like bell peppers and carrots.
- Mix gochujang, soy sauce, and honey for the sauce.
- Toss noodles with vegetables and sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.
Time: 20 minutes
Tags: Vegan, Spicy, Stir-Fry
Recipe Credit: chilipeppermadness
💡 Tip: Add tofu or chicken for extra protein.
Check Full Recipe-www.chilipeppermadness.com
🍜 6. Bulgogi Noodle Stir-Fry
This stir-fry features tender marinated beef (bulgogi) combined with chewy wheat noodles and crisp vegetables, all coated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that brings Korean BBQ flavors to the noodle bowl.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Marinate thin beef slices in bulgogi sauce.
- Cook wheat noodles and set aside.
- Stir-fry beef until browned.
- Add noodles and vegetables, toss with sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds.
Time: 30 minutes
Tags: Meat, Stir-Fry, Comfort Food
Recipe Credit: Maangchi
💡 Tip: Use ribeye or sirloin for tender bulgogi.
Check Full Recipe-maangchi
🍜 7. Kimchi Noodle Soup
This spicy, tangy soup features wheat noodles simmered in a kimchi-rich broth. It’s warming, packed with umami, and perfect for chilly nights or when you want a bold Korean flavor boost.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Sauté kimchi and garlic in a pot.
- Add broth and bring to a boil.
- Cook wheat noodles directly in the soup.
- Add tofu or pork slices if desired.
- Garnish with scallions and sesame oil.
Time: 30 minutes
Tags: Spicy, Soup, Gluten
Recipe Credit: Korean Bapsang
💡 Tip: Use well-fermented kimchi for deeper flavor.
Check Full Recipe-koreanbapsang
🍜 8. Soy Sauce Garlic Noodles
This simple yet flavorful dish highlights wheat noodles tossed in a savory soy-garlic sauce with a hint of sweetness. It’s an easy go-to recipe for a quick dinner or side dish.
Quick 5-Step Summary:
- Cook noodles until tender.
- Sauté garlic in oil until fragrant.
- Add soy sauce, sugar, and a touch of sesame oil.
- Toss noodles in sauce to coat evenly.
- Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds.
Time: 15 minutes
Tags: Vegan, Quick, Simple
Recipe Credit: theforkedspoon
💡 Tip: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Check Full Recipe-theforkedspoon
More Recipe Details
These Korean wheat noodle recipes are easy to customize. You can swap vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach depending on what you have on hand. For protein, tofu, chicken, or beef work great.
If you want a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free noodles or rice noodles instead of wheat noodles. Most sauces can be adjusted by swapping soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Serving suggestions include simple sides like kimchi, steamed veggies, or a light salad to balance the meal.
To store leftovers, keep noodles and broth separate if possible. Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep noodles from drying out.
History or Origin of the Dish
Wheat noodles have a long history in Korean cuisine, dating back centuries when wheat farming became common. Dishes like Janchi Guksu were traditionally served at celebrations and weddings, symbolizing long life and good fortune.
Cold noodle dishes, like Bibim Guksu and Jjolmyeon, became popular street foods in the 20th century, loved for their refreshing taste during hot summers.
Many of these noodle dishes highlight simple ingredients and bold flavors, reflecting Korea’s resourceful and communal food culture. Today, Korean wheat noodles continue to be a beloved comfort food, perfect for quick meals with deep cultural roots.
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Strainer or colander to drain noodles
- Medium saucepan for broth or sauces
- Mixing bowls for preparing sauces and tossing noodles
- Knife and cutting board for vegetables and garnishes
- Chopsticks or tongs for stirring and serving
- Measuring spoons and cups for accurate seasoning
- Optional: Mandoline slicer for thin vegetable cuts
FAQ Section
Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute wheat noodles with gluten-free noodles like rice or shirataki noodles. Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
What’s the difference between kalguksu and janchi guksu?
Kalguksu uses hand-cut thick noodles in a hearty broth, while janchi guksu features thin noodles in a light, clear broth. Both are comforting but differ in texture and richness.
How do I store leftover noodles?
Store noodles and broth separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding broth or water to keep noodles moist.
Are these recipes spicy?
Some are spicy, like bibim guksu and jjolmyeon, but others like janchi guksu and soy sauce noodles are mild. You can adjust spice levels by adding or reducing chili paste or flakes.
Can I make these dishes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance, but it’s best to toss noodles with sauces just before serving to keep the texture fresh. Soups can be reheated easily.
What side dishes go well with Korean noodles?
Kimchi, pickled vegetables, steamed greens, or light salads complement these noodles perfectly. They balance flavors and add freshness.
Can I use other types of noodles?
You can, but wheat noodles provide the best traditional texture. Rice or buckwheat noodles are good alternatives but will change the dish slightly.
Are these recipes kid-friendly?
Most are, especially the milder versions. Adjust spice levels to suit your kids’ taste by reducing chili paste or using less garlic.
Conclusion
These 8 easy Korean wheat noodle recipes bring comfort, flavor, and simplicity to your weeknight dinners. From soothing soups to spicy cold bowls, there’s something for every craving and skill level.
Try one or try them all—you’ll love how quick and satisfying these meals are. Don’t forget to comment with your favorite recipe, share this post with friends, and pin it for easy access later.
Happy cooking and enjoy your Korean noodle adventure!
