How to Cook Costco Udon Noodles

Costco sells two popular udon noodle products. The Pulmuone Teriyaki Stir-Fry Udon sits in the refrigerated deli section. The Nongshim Udon Noodle Soup Bowl lives in the pantry aisle near dry goods.

Both options give you thick wheat flour noodles with that chewy texture Japanese noodle dishes are known for. Quick weeknight dinner material, honestly.

The refrigerated version takes about 3-5 minutes. The instant bowl needs just 4 minutes. This guide covers microwave, stovetop, and hot water methods for both products.

Product Details

Product: Pulmuone Teriyaki Stir-Fry Udon

Type: Refrigerated, pre-cooked noodles with seasoning packets

Package Size: 29.4 oz (4 servings)

Price: $8.59 at Costco (Updated December 2024)

Storage: Keep refrigerated

Calories per Serving: 370

Main Ingredients: Wheat flour noodles, teriyaki seasoning, dried vegetable topping (peas, carrots, green onions, sesame seeds)

Item Number: 1777022

Second Product Option

Product: Nongshim Udon Noodle Soup Bowl

Type: Shelf-stable, pre-cooked noodles in individual bowls

Package Size: 58.41 oz (6 bowls x 9.73 oz each)

Price: $10.49-$18.99 at Costco (varies by location)

Storage: Room temperature

Calories per Serving: 220 per half bowl (410 per full bowl)

Main Ingredients: Wheat-based udon noodles, soy sauce broth, dried seaweed, tempura flakes, fish cakes

Item Number: 100381586

Cooking Methods Comparison

Recommended Method: Stovetop for the Pulmuone stir-fry version. You get better noodle texture and can easily add chicken, beef, or extra vegetables to make it a complete meal.

Method 1: Stovetop (Recommended for Stir-Fry Udon)

Takes about 3-4 minutes total. Produces the best chewy noodle texture with slightly caramelized edges. Works for 1 serving at a time.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare the Stir-Fry Udon?

Open one noodle packet, one vegetable topping packet, and one teriyaki seasoning packet. Keep the seasoning separate until the end.

Instructions:

1. Add 1 tbsp oil to your pan (do not heat yet)
2. Add 4 tbsp water to the cold pan
3. Place vegetable topping and udon noodles in the pan

Equipment: Non-stick saucepan or wok, cooking oil, measuring spoon

Step 2: What Temperature and Time Do You Use?

High heat first, then low heat for the seasoning. Total cooking time runs 3-4 minutes.

Instructions:

1. Turn heat to high
2. Stir fry for 1-2 minutes, constantly moving the noodles
3. Reduce to low heat before adding seasoning

Temperature: High heat (setting 7-8 out of 10), then low heat (setting 2-3)

Time: 2-3 minutes on high, 1 minute on low

Step 3: When Do You Add the Seasoning?

Add the teriyaki seasoning packet during the last minute of cooking. This prevents burning.

Instructions:

1. After 2 minutes on high heat, reduce to low
2. Add teriyaki seasoning packet and mix well
3. Stir fry for 1 more minute

Checkpoint: At the 2-minute mark, noodles should be separated and heated through

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Done?

Noodles should be hot throughout with seasoning evenly distributed. The chewy texture comes from not overcooking.

Instructions:

1. Test a noodle for temperature (should be steaming)
2. Check that seasoning coats all noodles evenly
3. Remove from heat immediately when done

Visual Indicator: Glossy noodles with visible seasoning coating, steam rising

Method 2: Microwave (Stir-Fry Udon)

Fastest method at 3.5 minutes. Good for when you need food fast and do not plan to add extras. Slightly softer texture than stovetop.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare for Microwaving?

Everything goes in the bowl together before microwaving. Use a microwave-safe bowl, not the original packaging.

Instructions:

1. Add 3-4 tbsp of water to a microwave-safe bowl
2. Add vegetable topping and teriyaki seasoning
3. Mix well before adding noodles
4. Add udon noodles and toss to combine

Equipment: Microwave-safe bowl with lid or plate cover

Step 2: What Power Level and Time?

Full power for 3 minutes 30 seconds. Keep the lid on during cooking.

Instructions:

1. Cover the bowl (leave a small vent)
2. Microwave on HIGH for 3 minutes 30 seconds
3. Let sit for 30 seconds before removing lid

Power Level: HIGH (100%)

Time: 3.5 minutes

Step 3: When Do You Stir?

Stir after cooking is complete. No mid-cook stirring needed.

Instructions:

1. Carefully remove lid after resting
2. Mix noodles thoroughly to distribute seasoning

Checkpoint: After 3.5 minutes, all liquid should be absorbed

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Done?

Noodles should be steaming with seasoning evenly mixed throughout.

Instructions:

1. Check that noodles are hot in the center
2. Ensure no dry seasoning remains
3. Serve immediately

Visual Indicator: Steam rising, glossy appearance, uniform color from seasoning

Method 3: Microwave (Nongshim Soup Bowl)

The instant udon soup bowls cook in 4 minutes flat. Pre-cooked noodles in a soy sauce broth with dried toppings. No draining required.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare the Soup Bowl?

Remove the lid and add all packets to the bowl with room temperature water.

Instructions:

1. Remove lid from bowl
2. Unwrap noodles and place in bowl
3. Add sauce packet and flavor flakes
4. Pour room temperature water to the inside fill line

Equipment: The bowl itself (or transfer to microwave-safe container if concerned about plastic)

Step 2: What Power and Time for the Soup?

Microwave without a lid for 4 minutes. The water needs to absorb into the noodles and create the broth.

Instructions:

1. Do NOT cover the bowl
2. Microwave on HIGH for 4 minutes
3. Let rest 1 minute before eating

Power Level: HIGH (100%)

Time: 4 minutes, plus 1 minute rest

Step 3: When Do You Stir the Soup?

Stir only after the cooking cycle completes. This helps distribute the broth and toppings.

Instructions:

1. After 4 minutes, carefully remove from microwave
2. Stir well to mix broth with noodles
3. Let cool slightly before eating

Checkpoint: Broth should be steaming and aromatic

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Ready?

Noodles should be soft and pliable. Broth should be hot and flavorful.

Instructions:

1. Test a noodle for texture (should be chewy, not mushy)
2. Taste broth for proper seasoning
3. Add toppings if desired

Visual Indicator: Clear broth with visible toppings floating, steam rising from bowl

Method 4: Hot Water (Nongshim Soup Bowl)

No microwave needed. Just boiling water and 4 minutes of patience. Same result as the microwave method.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare Without a Microwave?

Boil water separately, then pour into the bowl with all ingredients.

Instructions:

1. Boil water in a kettle or pot
2. Remove lid from bowl, add unwrapped noodles, sauce, and flakes
3. Pour hot water to the inside fill line
4. Close the lid immediately

Equipment: Kettle or pot for boiling water

Step 2: How Long Do You Wait?

Cover and wait 4 minutes. The hot water does all the work.

Instructions:

1. Seal the lid tightly
2. Set a timer for 4 minutes
3. Do not peek during this time

Time: 4 minutes covered

Step 3: Final Steps

Remove lid and stir thoroughly.

Instructions:

1. Open lid after 4 minutes
2. Stir to combine noodles and broth
3. Serve immediately

Visual Indicator: Noodles fully softened, broth fragrant and steaming

Safety and Quality Indicators

Food Safety:

• Steam Check: Noodles should produce visible steam when stirred
• Temperature: Product should be hot throughout
• Pre-cooked Status: Both products contain pre-cooked noodles, so full cooking is about heating rather than raw food safety

Quality Indicators (Done Properly):

• Texture: Chewy but not rubbery, springy when bitten
• Color: Noodles should be uniform in color with visible seasoning
• Temperature: Hot throughout, steaming when served
• Appearance: Glossy noodles with no dry patches

Signs of Overcooking:

• Mushy, falling-apart noodles
• Dried-out seasoning with burnt edges (stovetop)
• Noodles sticking together in clumps

Serving Suggestions

Portion Size: 1 packet makes about 1.25 cups prepared (1 serving). The soup bowl serves 1-2 people depending on appetite.

Serving Ideas:

• Add sliced grilled chicken or beef strips for protein
• Toss in fresh vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or bell peppers
• Top with a soft boiled egg and green onion slices
• Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds

Pairing Recommendations:

• Steamed edamame from Costco makes a great side
• Try it alongside Costco potstickers for a full Asian meal
• Add cooked Costco shrimp for a seafood version

Storage and Reheating

Before Cooking (Pulmuone):

• Keep refrigerated until ready to use
• Check use-by date on package
• Once opened, cook within 24 hours

Before Cooking (Nongshim):

• Store at room temperature in a dry place
• Check best-by date on bowl

Leftover Storage:

• Refrigerate within 2 hours
• Store in airtight container
• Consume within 2-3 days

Reheating Instructions:

• Microwave: 1-2 minutes at 50% power, stirring halfway
• Stovetop: 2-3 minutes over medium heat with 1-2 tbsp water added
• Target Temperature: Steaming hot throughout

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue: Noodles are clumpy and stuck together

Cause: Not enough water or oil during cooking, or not stirring enough

Solution: Add extra tablespoon of water. Stir more frequently on stovetop. For microwave, ensure noodles are coated in liquid before cooking.

Issue: Seasoning tastes too salty

Cause: Using the entire seasoning packet

Solution: Use only 2/3 of the seasoning packet. The Nongshim soup has 1,820mg sodium per bowl, so using less sauce helps. Adding fresh vegetables dilutes the saltiness.

Issue: Noodles broke apart during cooking

Cause: Tried to separate cold noodles in pan, or overcooked

Solution: For the stir-fry version, microwave the noodle packet for 30 seconds with a slit cut in the bag before adding to pan. This loosens them without breaking. Never try to forcibly separate cold noodles.

Issue: Dehydrated vegetables are still hard

Cause: Not enough cooking time or moisture

Solution: Soak vegetable topping in warm water for 2 minutes before cooking. Or skip the included vegetables and add your own fresh ones.

Product Variations and Related Items

Similar Costco Products:

• Costco yakisoba stir fry – Thinner noodles, different sauce, includes vegetables and protein
• Costco frozen ramen – Different noodle type, deeper broth flavor
• Costco healthy noodles – Low-calorie alternative, different texture

Upgrade Options:

• Add Costco teriyaki chicken for extra protein
• Serve with Costco spring rolls as an appetizer
• Pair with Costco frozen vegetables for a balanced meal

Cooking Time Adjustments:

• Adding frozen protein: Add 2-3 minutes to stovetop time
• Adding fresh vegetables: Add 1-2 minutes to stovetop time
• Cooking multiple servings: Cook one at a time for best results

Which Method Should You Choose?

Choose Stovetop when:

• You want to add protein like chicken or beef
• You prefer slightly caramelized edges on noodles
• You are adding fresh vegetables to the dish

Choose Microwave (Stir-Fry) when:

• Speed is the priority
• You are cooking a single serving
• No stovetop access available

Choose Microwave or Hot Water (Soup Bowl) when:

• You want a complete soup meal
• Minimal cleanup is important
• Portability matters (office, travel)

Time Comparison:

Microwave Stir-Fry (3.5 min) < Stovetop Stir-Fry (4 min) < Soup Bowl Methods (4-5 min)

Texture Ranking:

Stovetop (chewiest, best texture) > Microwave Stir-Fry (good texture) > Soup Bowl (softest)

FAQ on How To Cook Costco Udon Noodles

How long does it take to cook Costco udon noodles?

The Pulmuone stir-fry udon takes 3-4 minutes on the stovetop or 3.5 minutes in the microwave.

Nongshim udon soup bowls need exactly 4 minutes with hot water or in the microwave. Both products use pre-cooked noodles.

Can you microwave Costco udon noodles?

Yes. Both products are microwavable.

For the Pulmuone teriyaki version, add 3-4 tbsp water, cover, and microwave 3.5 minutes. The Nongshim bowl needs room temperature water filled to the line, then 4 minutes uncovered.

Do you need to thaw frozen udon noodles before cooking?

The Pulmuone udon is refrigerated, not frozen. No thawing needed.

If you buy frozen udon from the Asian grocery section, make a slit in the bag and microwave 30 seconds to loosen before stir frying. Never force cold noodles apart.

What is the best way to cook Pulmuone udon from Costco?

Stovetop produces the best results. The chewy noodle texture holds up better with direct heat.

Add oil and water to a cold pan with noodles. Stir fry on high 2 minutes, then add teriyaki seasoning on low for 1 minute.

How do you prepare the Nongshim udon soup bowl?

Remove the lid. Add unwrapped noodles, sauce packet, and flavor flakes to the bowl.

Pour water to the fill line. Microwave 4 minutes without the lid, or use boiling water and cover for 4 minutes. Stir before eating.

Can you add protein to Costco udon noodles?

Absolutely. The noodles work as a base for bigger meals.

Sliced chicken, beef strips, or cooked shrimp all pair well. Cook your protein separately, then toss with the finished noodles. The teriyaki seasoning has enough flavor to coat everything.

Are Costco udon noodles gluten-free?

No. Both products contain wheat flour noodles.

Udon is a thick wheat-based Japanese noodle by definition. Anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid these products entirely. Check the Costco healthy noodles for a lower-carb alternative.

How do you store leftover cooked udon noodles?

Refrigerate within 2 hours in an airtight container. Leftovers last 2-3 days.

Reheat in the microwave at 50% power for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water to prevent drying. Stovetop reheating works too with a tablespoon of water added.

Why are my udon noodles sticking together?

Not enough liquid during cooking. Or you tried separating cold noodles by force.

Fix this by adding an extra tablespoon of water. For the refrigerated version, microwave the sealed packet for 30 seconds first. The noodles loosen without breaking.

What vegetables go well with Costco udon noodles?

Broccoli, bok choy, bell peppers, and snap peas work great.

The included dehydrated vegetables are underwhelming. Skip them and add fresh ones instead. Cook vegetables separately or add them during the last minute of stir frying for best texture.

Conclusion

Learning how to cook Costco udon noodles takes minutes. The Pulmuone stir-fry version and Nongshim soup bowls both deliver that authentic udon texture without the hassle.

Stovetop gives you the best results for yaki udon style dishes. Microwave works when speed matters.

Add your own protein and fresh vegetables to turn these thick Japanese noodles into a complete meal. Skip the dehydrated veggie packets if you want real flavor.

At under $3 per serving, this budget friendly meal belongs in your weeknight dinner rotation.