If you’re a noodle lover who craves a quick and healthy lunch solution, Mason Jar Noodles are about to become your new favorite meal prep hack! With layers of crisp veggies, hearty protein, tender noodles, and a flavor-packed sauce all sealed up in a convenient jar, this recipe turns the classic cup-of-noodles idea on its head with vibrant colors and fresh, customizable ingredients. Mason Jar Noodles are portable, endlessly adaptable, and just begging for your creative twists, whether you’re packing lunch for work or prepping a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these little jars of happiness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Mason Jar Noodles comes from how a handful of simple staples stack up to something seriously crave-worthy. Each ingredient layers in a fresh flavor, snappy texture, or splash of color, making every jar a mini feast waiting to happen.
- Mason jars (16 oz size): Sturdy, reusable, and perfect for keeping all your layers fresh and tidy until lunch.
- Instant ramen noodles (4 packs, seasoning discarded): The classic base, just the noodles—soft, slurpable, and ready to soak up flavor.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (4 teaspoons): Delivers that essential umami kick without overpowering saltiness.
- Sesame oil (4 teaspoons): Adds a toasty fragrance and depth that makes the sauce irresistible.
- Rice vinegar (4 teaspoons): Brightens everything up and balances the richness of the oil and soy.
- Grated ginger (2 teaspoons): A zingy punch that perks up the whole jar—fresh is best here!
- Garlic (1 clove per jar, minced): For that savory backbone and irresistible aroma.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Sweet crunch and a pretty pop of color in every bite.
- Bell peppers, thinly sliced (1 cup): Adds juicy crispness and more nutrition—go wild with colors!
- Shredded cooked chicken or tofu (1 cup): Protein to keep you satisfied—choose your favorite or mix it up.
- Baby spinach or bok choy, chopped (1 cup): A heap of greens to wilt perfectly when you add the hot water.
- Green onions, thinly sliced (2): A mild bite and bright flavor on top.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, lime wedges, cilantro: Build your own signature flavor with these tasty finishing touches!
How to Make Mason Jar Noodles
Step 1: Layer the Flavor Base
Start each jar with your sauce ingredients at the bottom. Pour in 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 freshly minced garlic clove. This concentrated little puddle ensures your noodles will be slurp-worthy from the very first bite, and it prevents the veggies above from getting soggy.
Step 2: Pile in the Veggies and Protein
Next, add your shredded carrots and thinly sliced bell peppers, followed by a generous layer of shredded cooked chicken or tofu. Scatter over a handful of chopped baby spinach or bok choy and a sprinkle of green onions. This colorful lineup brings loads of nutrition and crunch to every forkful. Don’t worry if the jar looks full—the noodles will press it all down nicely!
Step 3: Top with Ramen Noodles
Take your instant ramen noodles (minus the seasoning), break each bundle in half or quarters to fit, and gently press them on top of the veggie layer. The dry noodles act as a seal, keeping everything beneath fresh until you’re ready to eat.
Step 4: Seal and Store
Tightly screw on the mason jar lids and pop your Mason Jar Noodles in the fridge. They’ll stay crisp and ready for up to four days, making weekday lunches a total breeze!
Step 5: Just Add Hot Water
When hunger strikes, all you need is boiling water. Open the jar, pour in enough boiling water to completely submerge the noodles, then loosely put the lid back on. Let it sit for 5 to 7 minutes—letting the noodles soften and the sauce infuse everything. Give it a good stir so all those flavors mingle. Top with your favorite garnishes and you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Mason Jar Noodles
Mason Jar Noodles Garnishes
Garnishing is where the real fun begins! A handful of fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can totally transform your Mason Jar Noodles and add a punch of freshness or heat—customize them to suit every mood or craving.
Side Dishes
These noodles are a meal on their own, but if you want to round things out, try pairing your jar with crisp snap peas, quick cucumber salad, or some edamame. They all add crunch and keep things light and balanced for a complete, satisfying lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be shy about showing off your Mason Jar Noodles—layer them in colorful stripes for a showstopper office lunch, tie on a cute ribbon for a picnic, or set up a build-your-own noodle jar bar for friends and family. No matter which way, they’re sure to draw some envious glances!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about Mason Jar Noodles is their incredible meal prep potential. Keep your fully loaded jars in the fridge for up to four days, making sure they stay upright and tightly sealed. They’ll keep their crunch and flavor until you’re ready for lunch.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze prepped ingredients (minus the noodles and greens) in small freezer-safe containers if you really want to stay ahead of the game. Wait to assemble the final Mason Jar Noodles until you’re ready to enjoy them, as freezing the noodles or leafy greens can change their texture.
Reheating
No microwave needed! To heat your Mason Jar Noodles, just pour boiling water right into the jar, cover, and let them sit. For an extra-hot touch, give them an extra minute with the lid on, then stir and serve—easy, safe, and stress-free.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Lunch, Meal Prep
Absolutely! While ramen is classic, thin rice noodles, soba, or even vermicelli work well—just keep in mind they may soften at slightly different rates once you add hot water.
How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?
Layering the dry noodles on top of the veggies and only adding boiling water right before you eat keeps everything perfectly springy. If you prefer chewier noodles, test them after 5 minutes and adjust the resting time as needed.
Are Mason Jar Noodles good for kids?
Yes! Kids love the fun factor of eating from a jar, and you can tailor the ingredients to their tastes—skip the spice, add more mild veggies, or swap in rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just make sure they wait for the jar to cool a little before digging in.
How do I make these vegetarian or vegan?
Swap the chicken for firm tofu and use all veggie components. Make sure your noodles are egg-free and stick with vegetable broth or water for the hot liquid—you’ll still get loads of savory flavor.
Can I prep Mason Jar Noodles more than four days ahead?
While they’ll keep for up to four days with perfect texture, any longer and the veggies can lose their crunch. If you must prep further in advance, chop and store the ingredients separately, then assemble the jars the night before.
Final Thoughts
Once you taste how easy and flavorful Mason Jar Noodles can be, you’ll want to keep a few jars at the ready for any busy day. Let your creativity shine, try new combinations, and let these handy jars transform your lunch routine into something delicious and fun. Give Mason Jar Noodles a try—you’ll be hooked after the first slurp!
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Mason Jar Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Mason Jar Noodles are a convenient and delicious meal prep option for busy days. Layers of noodles, veggies, and protein in a flavorful Asian-inspired broth, perfect for a quick lunch or on-the-go meal.
Ingredients
Mason Jar Noodles:
- 4 mason jars (16 oz size)
- 4 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 4 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 teaspoons sesame oil
- 4 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken or tofu
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach or bok choy
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: red pepper flakes, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Jars: In each mason jar, layer soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
- Layer Ingredients: Add in carrots, bell peppers, chicken/tofu, spinach, and green onions.
- Add Noodles: Top with broken ramen noodles.
- Refrigerate: Seal the jars and refrigerate until ready to eat.
- To Serve: Pour boiling water into the jar, let sit for 5-7 minutes, then stir and garnish as desired.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- For a vegetarian option, use tofu and vegetable broth.
- Jars will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (just add boiling water)
- Category: Lunch, Meal Prep
- Method: No-Cook (add hot water)
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
