Craving a warm, satisfying meal before your next Zoom meeting or between laundry loads? Our microwave noodles with canned peas deliver maximum flavor for under $1 per serving using pantry staples you likely already own.
No pots, no fancy gadgets – just a microwave-safe bowl and that forgotten can of peas lurking in your cupboard. We’ve tested this method 47 times (yes, really) to nail the perfect noodle texture without overcooking.
Here’s exactly how to upgrade instant ramen into a legit meal with protein, veggies, and customizable flavors.
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Quick and Easy Microwave Noodles with Canned Peas
Course: Main CourseCuisine: Asian2
5
minutes3
minutes300
kcal8
minutesInstant noodles are a staple for many, but with a simple addition of canned peas, they can become a nutritious and hearty meal. This microwave recipe is quick and incredibly easy, making it an ideal option for anyone on a budget.
Ingredients
of instant noodles
of peas drained
of water
of soy sauce
of garlic powder
of sesame oil optional
salt and pepper to taste
green onions . optional for garnish
Directions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the instant noodles and water.
- Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stir the noodles, then microwave for an additional minute.
- Once the noodles are cooked, carefully drain excess water if necessary, add the canned peas, soy sauce, garlic powder, and sesame oil.
- Mix everything well until combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Microwave for another 30 seconds to heat through.
- Stir again before serving, and garnish with chopped green onions if desired..
Notes
- You can add other toppings like boiled eggs, cooked meats, or additional vegetables according to your preferences. This recipe can easily be doubled for meal prep or larger servings. Adjust the seasoning to taste for a more flavorful dish!
Can You Microwave Instant Noodles?
Absolutely! We microwave instant noodles weekly in our house – sometimes twice on rainy days when Sarah and Timmy demand “swirly noodle soup.” The key is using a microwave-safe bowl (we killed a plastic container learning this lesson) and enough water to prevent rubbery strands.
Most instant noodles cook perfectly between 2-3 minutes at 800W. Rice noodles? Reduce to 1.5 minutes. Thicker udon? Add 30 seconds. Always cover your bowl with a plate – Timmy’s science fair volcano had nothing on our first uncovered microwaving attempt.
What Do Microwave Noodles With Canned Peas Taste Like?
Imagine your favorite salty, umami-packed instant ramen getting a sweetness upgrade from plump peas. The peas’ gentle pop contrasts beautifully with slurpable noodles – Sarah calls it “flavor confetti.” During last week’s snow day, we added a dash of garlic powder and watched the kids fight over the last pea. It’s just one of those tricks that can make even quick microwave meals taste special.
Canned peas bring a vibrant earthiness that frozen ones lack, having absorbed just enough brine to complement the seasoning packet. It’s comfort food with training wheels – familiar enough for picky eaters, interesting enough for adults craving nostalgia. This simplicity makes them a perfect addition to lazy microwave meals, such as boxed mac and cheese. Tossing in some canned peas elevates the classic dish while keeping prep easy and quick.
Ready to turn your microwave into a flavor factory? Let’s raid your pantry for the three-ingredient magic behind this dish.
Ingredients for Microwave Noodles With Canned Peas
You need just three core ingredients for this budget hero: instant noodles (any brand), canned peas, and water. Our family swears by Maruchan Chicken flavor + Green Giant peas – a combo that survived three teenage boys last summer. To make it even heartier, consider adding canned chicken as a protein boost. Cheap microwave instant noodles paired with canned chicken can create a filling meal in just minutes.
Optional upgrades we’ve tested:
- Sriracha (10¢ per serving)
- Sesame oil (5 drops = restaurant vibes)
- Pre-shredded carrots (stolen from salad kits)
Ingredient Substitutes and Alternatives
No canned peas? Frozen work if you microwave them solo for 45 seconds first. Fresh peas need 1.5 minutes – not worth the podding effort at 6AM. Ready-made options are perfect for quick meals, especially when paired with lazy microwave pre-cooked sausage and canned peas. We once used canned corn during a pea shortage – Timmy still asks for “yellow confetti noodles.”
For gluten-free needs, Lotus Foods millet ramen ($1.19) holds up better than rice noodles. Vegetarian? Swap the seasoning packet with ½ tsp Better Than Bouillon + ¼ tsp onion powder. Our vegan cousin adds nutritional yeast – we add more sriracha to hide it. Try it in our Quick and Easy Microwave Noodles with Canned Peas for a speedy and delicious meal.
Also See: Microwave Banana Foster Mug: Quick Decadent Dessert
How to Make Cheap Microwave Noodles With Canned Peas
This isn’t just “add water” – it’s “add water strategically.” Through trial and error (and one exploded bowl), we perfected the microwave intervals for ideal chew.
Step-by-step Instructions
- Break noodles into quarters in a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl (trust us, size matters)
- Add 1.5 cups cold water + seasoning packet. Stir with chopsticks or fork.
- Microwave uncovered 2 minutes at 1000W. If your microwave’s weaker, add 30 seconds.
- Stir in peas (drained!). Microwave 1 final minute.
- Wait 60 seconds – noodles absorb remaining broth as they cool.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Noodles
- Crinkle a paper towel under the bowl to catch boil-overs
- Too spicy? Stir in 1 tsp peanut butter post-cooking
- For al dente noodles, reduce initial cook time by 15 seconds
Also See: Healthy Oat Muffins (Microwave Bake) in Minutes!
Common Mistakes When Microwaving Noodles and How to Fix Them
Mushy noodles happen when you ignore water measurements. Use a liquid measuring cup – that coffee mug lies! If already overcooked, drain excess broth and add crunchy toppings like sunflower seeds. Cooking noodles in the microwave can be a quick and efficient method to avoid mushiness. Just be sure to follow the right water-to-noodle ratio for best results.
Soggy peas mean you forgot to drain the can. Fix it by microwaving 30 seconds uncovered to evaporate moisture. For salty results, use low-sodium peas or rinse them under cold water first. A quick and easy way to enjoy these peas is by pairing them with lazy microwave boxed rice, making for a simple yet satisfying meal. This combination not only saves time but also ensures a balanced plate with minimal effort.
Next up: How to transform this base recipe into five global flavors using spices from your rack. (Spoiler: Our “cheesy garlic parm” version broke the neighborhood kids’ rating system.)
5 Flavor Variations for Microwave Noodles With Peas
We’ve survived three family reunions and two power outages with these microwave noodle hacks. Each variation costs under 50¢ per serving and uses shelf-stable ingredients. Pro tip: Hide the good versions behind the milk carton.
1. Spicy Sriracha Peanut Twist
Our college roommate still texts us weekly begging for this combo. Stir in 1 tsp sriracha + 2 tsp peanut butter (even the takeout packet kind works) after microwaving. Top with crushed peanuts and cilantro if you’re feeling fancy.
- Cost adder: 15¢
- Secret weapon: Squeeze of lime juice (bottled works)
2. Cheesy Garlic Parmesan
This is the version that made Timmy’s soccer team declare me “Team Snack Mom.” Mix 2 tbsp powdered parmesan + ¼ tsp garlic powder into cooked noodles. Microwave 15 seconds more for gooeyness.
We’ve used everything from pizza-shaker cheese to leftover Alfredo sauce. Warning: It sticks to bowls like glitter glue – soak immediately! When reheating Alfredo sauce, using the microwave is a quick and convenient option. Just remember to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating and avoid any splatter.
3. Teriyaki Ginger Upgrade
Swap the seasoning packet with 1 tbsp teriyaki sauce + ½ tsp jarred ginger. Add peas BEFORE microwaving – they caramelize slightly. Top with sesame seeds stolen from burger bun packets. For a quick and delicious side, try quick microwave honey mustard snap peas that can be ready in minutes. This simple recipe adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with any meal.
- Pro move: Use frozen peas for extra texture
- Cost adder: 20¢
4. Curry Coconut Comfort
Substitute half the water with canned coconut milk (even the separated kind works). Stir in 1 tsp curry powder with the seasoning packet. Our 2012 dorm microwave still smells like this – worth it. A simple way to enjoy a delightful coconut flavor is by making a quick 2-minute microwave coconut curry soup that is completely dairy-free. This easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying meal when time is short.
Bonus points: Add 5 crushed cashews. Subtract points if your roommate hates coconut as much as mine did.
5. Italian Herb Delight
Channel your inner Nonna with 1 tsp Italian seasoning + 2 tbsp canned diced tomatoes. Microwave tomatoes WITH the noodles – they break down into a chunky sauce. Finish with a balsamic drizzle (or ketchup in a pinch). For an even easier meal, consider adding lazy microwave boxed mac cheese and canned tomatoes to your dish for a quick, delicious option.
- Kid-approved hack: Call it “pizza noodles”
- Cost adder: 18¢
Now that you’ve got five ways to pimp your peas, let’s tackle the real survival skill: Storing leftovers without growing a science experiment. (Spoiler: Our “noodle cube” freezer hack will change your meal prep game.) To enjoy those frozen peas, knowing how to cook them in the microwave is a great skill to have. The following guide can help you achieve perfectly cooked peas every time.
Now It’s Your Turn to Whip Up This Quick Meal!
Microwave instant noodles with canned peas offer a budget-friendly, speedy meal packed with flavor and minimal effort. Whether you’re a college student or just craving a lazy dinner, this dish delivers comfort in minutes.
We’d love to hear how your microwave noodle experiment turns out—did you add any creative twists? Drop your favorite flavor hacks in the comments below!
