Dinner Recipes with Peanut Butter That Are Full of Bold Flavor
Recipes with Peanut Butter aren’t just for desserts—they can add bold, nutty flavor to savory dishes that surprise and satisfy.
If you’ve only used peanut butter in cookies or sandwiches, get ready to discover how it transforms everything from noodles to chicken to sauces into rich, crave-worthy meals.
This collection of delicious recipes is here to prove just how versatile your pantry staple really is.
Whether you’re craving something spicy, creamy, or packed with protein, these ideas will shake up your dinner routine in the best way.
From Asian-inspired stir-fries to slow cooker favorites, each dish brings that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and salty.
Tips for Cooking with Peanut Butter
- Use natural peanut butter for better flavor. It’s less sweet and more peanut-forward, which works best in savory dishes.
- Thin it out with warm water, broth, or soy sauce. This helps make it into a pourable sauce or dressing for noodles, chicken, or veggies.
- Balance the richness. Add acid (like lime juice or vinegar), spice (like chili flakes or sriracha), or something salty (like soy sauce or fish sauce) to keep flavors from being too heavy.
- Peanut butter burns easily. If you’re sautéing or using it in a hot dish, stir it in at the end or mix it with other liquids first.
- Start small with seasoning. Since peanut butter has a strong flavor, taste as you go to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! It adds a nice texture to sauces and dishes like peanut noodles or chicken stir-fry, though you may want to blend it for smooth sauces.
What cuisine uses peanut butter in savory dishes?
Many African and Southeast Asian recipes feature peanut butter, especially in sauces and stews. Think: peanut soups, satay, and noodle bowls.
Can I freeze savory peanut butter sauces?
Yes, most freeze well in airtight containers. Just thaw and whisk or warm gently to bring back a smooth consistency.
If you’re loving these savory peanut butter dishes, be sure to check out these other easy ideas that the whole family will enjoy:
- From no-bake pies to rich brownies, these peanut butter desserts are simple, sweet, and totally satisfying.
- Find a variety of simple, crowd-pleasing main dish recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
- Whether you’re in the mood for nostalgic favorites or something a little different, these comfort food recipes deliver all the cozy vibes with big flavor.
Easy Recipes with Peanut Butter
Thai Inspired Recipes
1
Peanut Butter Chicken
This creamy peanut butter chicken is packed with rich, nutty flavor and just the right hint of spice. It’s a simple one-pan dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something bold and satisfying.
Check out this recipe
2
avidlyravenous.com
Thai Style Wild Rice
Nutty wild rice meets bold Thai flavors in this colorful and filling side or main dish. It’s a great way to bring a little flair to your meal prep routine.
Check out this recipe
3
strengthandsunshine.com
Grilled Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
These grilled chicken satay skewers are marinated to perfection and served with a homemade peanut sauce. A delicious party appetizer or easy dinner.
Check out this recipe
4
foodmeanderings.com
Easy Thai Pork and Noodles
These Thai-inspired pork noodles are quick, saucy, and full of sweet-spicy peanut flavor. A weeknight win you’ll want on repeat.
Check out this recipe
5
www.paintthekitchenred.com
Instant Pot Thai Panang Curry with Chicken
Make restaurant-style Thai curry at home with this easy Instant Pot Panang curry. The peanut butter adds richness and depth to the spicy coconut base.
Check out this recipe
6
www.marathonsandmotivation.com
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
This cold Thai peanut noodle salad is crunchy, creamy, and perfect for picnics or make-ahead lunches. It’s a fresh twist on classic noodle dishes.
Check out this recipe
7
getonmyplate.com
Chopped Thai Salad with Spicy Peanut Vinaigrette
This chopped Thai salad is fresh and crunchy with a zesty, spicy peanut dressing that ties everything together. It’s the kind of salad you’ll actually crave.
Check out this recipe
8
naturallieplantbased.com
Thai Peanut Tofu Quinoa Bowl
This Thai peanut noodle bowl is creamy, spicy, and full of fresh veggies. It’s a customizable favorite that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Check out this recipe
9
apaigeofpositivity.com
Spicy Thai Salad with Udon Chicken
This Thai-style salad features chewy udon noodles, spicy chicken, and a drizzle of peanut dressing. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Check out this recipe
10
spiceandsugarmama.com
The Best Thai Pork Burger Ever
Juicy pork burgers get an upgrade with Thai seasonings and a peanut slaw on top. These bold, flavorful burgers are anything but boring.
Check out this recipe
11
ericasrecipes.com
Thai Chili Meatball Sliders with Peanut Slaw
These spicy meatball sliders are topped with a crunchy, tangy peanut slaw that takes them to the next level. Perfect for game day or fun weeknight dinners.
Check out this recipe
12
mytherapistcooks.com
Pan Fried Tofu with Thai Peanut Sauce
Golden, crispy tofu meets a silky Thai peanut sauce in this easy plant-based dinner. It’s full of flavor, protein, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast and filling.
Check out this recipe
Asian-Inspired Fusion
13
strengthandsunshine.com
Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
These cold sesame peanut noodles are creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. A perfect make-ahead lunch or light dinner that’s totally gluten-free and vegan.
Check out this recipe
14
emilyfabulous.com
Spicy Shrimp Ramen with Peanut Butter
This spicy shrimp ramen gets an irresistible twist with a spoonful of creamy peanut butter. It’s quick, spicy, and slurp-worthy comfort food that comes together in minutes.
Check out this recipe
15
www.chocolatemoosey.com
Sesame Shrimp Peanut Noodles
These shrimp noodles are tossed in a rich peanut-sesame sauce and come together in no time. It's a quick, satisfying dinner that feels restaurant-worthy.
Check out this recipe
16
twohealthykitchens.com
Super-Fast Asian Salmon Pasta with Easy Peanut Sauce
This unique pasta dish combines tender salmon with a smooth peanut sauce for a bold fusion meal. It’s fast, fresh, and totally different from your usual weeknight dinner.
Check out this recipe
17
lemonsandzest.com
Peanut Mango Chicken Stir Fry
Sweet mango and savory peanut sauce make this chicken stir-fry a flavor-packed hit. It’s quick, colorful, and perfect for warm-weather dinners.
Check out this recipe
18
www.simplystacie.net
Cabbage & Peanut Butter Chicken Stir-fry
Crisp cabbage and tender chicken come together in this savory peanut butter stir-fry. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor.
Check out this recipe
19
jamilghar.com
Vegetable Rolls with Peanut Sauce
Packed with fresh veggies and herbs, these rolls are perfect for dipping into a smooth, savory peanut sauce. They’re light, refreshing, and perfect for any season.
Check out this recipe
20
simplyscrumptiouseats.com
Easy Peanut Butter Ramen
Give your ramen a creamy, nutty upgrade with this easy peanut butter twist. It’s cozy, comforting, and ready in minutes.
Check out this recipe
Indian & Curry Inspired
21
www.veggieinspired.com
Sweet Potato Peanut Butter Curry
This cozy curry brings together creamy peanut butter, sweet potatoes, and warm spices in one comforting bowl. It’s vegan, hearty, and delicious served over rice or quinoa.
Check out this recipe
African Inspired
22
inthekitch.net
Peanut Butter Soup
This rich and creamy peanut butter soup is inspired by West African flavors and makes a hearty, nourishing meal. It’s warm, comforting, and full of bold spices.
Check out this recipe
23
www.greedygourmet.com
One Pot Caribbean Peanut Chicken And Rice
Warm spices and creamy peanut butter bring bold Caribbean flavor to this one-pot chicken and rice. It’s a comforting dish with big tropical vibes.
Check out this recipe
Vegan & Buddha Bowls
24
www.snackinginsneakers.com
Vegan Lentil Quinoa Bowl with Peanut Sauce
This hearty vegan bowl combines lentils, quinoa, and a bold peanut sauce for a satisfying plant-based meal. It’s protein-packed and full of flavor.
Check out this recipe
25
www.sunglowkitchen.com
Vegan Spring Rolls with Crispy Tofu and Peanut Sauce
Fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor, these vegan spring rolls are paired with an irresistible peanut dipping sauce. They’re perfect for appetizers, lunch, or meal prep.
Check out this recipe
26
happykitchen.rocks
Ultimate Vegan Buddha Bowl
This loaded vegan Buddha bowl has grains, greens, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of creamy peanut sauce. It’s healthy, satisfying, and totally customizable.
Check out this recipe
Salads, Slaws & Sides
27
savorthebest.com
Spicy Peanut Sauce
This spicy peanut sauce is creamy, bold, and perfect for drizzling, dipping, or tossing with noodles. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients in minutes.
Check out this recipe
28
theshortordercook.com
Asian Avocado Peanut Coleslaw
Creamy avocado and a punchy peanut dressing make this coleslaw a standout side. It’s fresh, crunchy, and anything but ordinary.
Check out this recipe
Tofu
29
homecookedroots.com
30 Minute Crispy Peanut Tofu
Crispy tofu gets a crave-worthy upgrade with a sticky peanut glaze in this quick 30-minute dinner. It’s crunchy, saucy, and completely addictive—no takeout needed.
Check out this recipe
30
www.connoisseurusveg.com
Rainbow Peanut Butter Tofu Stir-Fry
Colorful veggies and crispy tofu come together in a rich peanut butter sauce for this vibrant stir-fry. It’s a fun, healthy way to eat the rainbow.
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Pasta
31
www.kitchentreaty.com
20-Minute Peanut Sweet Potato Noodles with Spinach
These sweet potato noodles are tossed in a quick peanut sauce and packed with baby spinach for a healthy, gluten-free twist on takeout noodles. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a fresh, veggie-forward meal.
Check out this recipe
32
confessionsofanover-workedmom.com
Peanut Butter Pasta Recipe With Bean Sprouts
This peanut butter pasta is a simple but delicious twist on noodles, topped with crunchy bean sprouts for texture. It’s quick, creamy, and full of flavor.
Check out this recipe
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