This One-Pot Cabbage and Noodles Stir Fry is the perfect quick and cozy meal that brings together tender veggies, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a sweet-savory soy glaze—all made in one pot!

It’s a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner that feels nostalgic, hearty, and surprisingly nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All-in-one pot for easy cleanup

Simple, budget-friendly ingredients

Comforting flavor with a savory-sweet soy sauce glaze

Kid-approved and ready in under 30 minutes

Naturally vegetarian and easy to customize

Ingredient Highlights

Green cabbage: Shredded for quick cooking and crunch

Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and color to the dish

Soy sauce + brown sugar: Create a bold, sweet-savory base

Ground mustard & ginger: Add warm, aromatic depth

Spaghetti noodles: A surprising twist that works beautifully

Sesame seeds: For a nutty finish and added texture

Pro Tips Before You Start

Don’t skip the sauté step—it deepens the flavor of the cabbage

Use a large wide pot or Dutch oven to keep the noodles from sticking

Stir frequently during the last 5 minutes to prevent clumping

Garnish with green onions or chili flakes for extra flair

How to Make One-Pot Cabbage and Noodles Stir Fry

Step 1 – Sauté the Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add shredded cabbage and carrots.

Sauté for about 5 minutes until just softened and slightly golden.

Step 2 – Add the Flavor Base
Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, ground mustard, ginger, and garlic powder.

Let the mixture bubble briefly to dissolve the sugar and meld the spices.

Step 3 – Add Pasta and Water
Drop in the uncooked spaghetti. (Break it in half if needed to fit the pot.)

Pour in the water, making sure the noodles are mostly submerged.

Step 4 – Simmer and Stir
Cook uncovered for 15–18 minutes.

As the noodles soften, stir every few minutes—especially in the last 5 minutes—to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5 – Finish with Sesame Seeds
Once the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove from heat.

Stir in the sesame seeds for a nutty, toasty finish.

Step 6 – Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of stir-fried goodness!

What to Serve It With

Crispy tofu, grilled shrimp, or stir-fried chicken

A side of steamed edamame or miso soup

Pickled cucumbers or kimchi for a tangy contrast

A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil for heat

Variations & Substitutions

Use ramen noodles or rice noodles instead of spaghetti

Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snow peas for more veggies

Try honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar

Swap in tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version

Stir in a beaten egg at the end for extra richness

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles and revive the flavors.

Not freezer-friendly, as the noodles can become mushy.

FAQs

Do I need to boil the noodles separately?
Nope! Everything cooks together in one pot—easy and efficient.

Will spaghetti taste good in stir fry?
Surprisingly, yes! It holds up well and absorbs all the sauce.

Can I use other types of cabbage?
Yes, Napa or red cabbage can work, but green holds up best.

What if my noodles are sticking?
Be sure to stir more frequently toward the end of cooking and keep the heat at a steady simmer.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely—add crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce.

Is this dish vegan?
Yes, it’s completely plant-based as written.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure you have a large enough pot and stir well during cooking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about a humble One-Pot Cabbage and Noodles Stir Fry.

It’s cozy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.

Whether you grew up with a version of this dish or it’s brand new to you, I think you’ll love the way it transforms simple ingredients into something crave-worthy.