Get ready to take your ramen game to the next level! With a few simple ingredients and some creative twists, you can turn this humble college student staple into a flavorful and satisfying meal. In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy and cheap ramen noodle recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From spicy garlic butter to cheesy fried eggs and everything in between, we’ve got you covered with a range of international-inspired flavors and comfort food classics. And the best part? Each recipe is quick, easy, and budget-friendly, making it perfect for busy home cooks and students on-the-go.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 recipes, sharing step-by-step instructions and mouth-watering photos to inspire your next ramen adventure. So grab a packet of noodles and let’s get started!
Spicy Garlic Butter Ramen
Elevate your ramen game with this spicy garlic butter twist! This recipe combines the classic Japanese noodle soup with a creamy, aromatic sauce that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– 2 cups of water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Green onions and sliced pork for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the red pepper flakes (if using), soy sauce, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked ramen noodles to the pot; toss to coat with the spicy garlic butter sauce.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sliced pork (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Ramen with Fried Egg
Elevate your ramen game with this creamy and savory twist featuring a runny fried egg. This comforting bowl of goodness is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 eggs
– Optional: sliced green onions, diced veggies, or cooked meat for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, milk, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Fry an egg in a separate pan with a little oil. Cook until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
5. Combine cooked noodles, cheesy broth, and fried egg in a bowl.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry Ramen
Revitalize your lunchtime routine with this flavorful and nutritious Vegetable Stir-Fry Ramen recipe, packed with a medley of colorful vegetables and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup of broccoli florets
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Sesame Ramen
Combine the comforting warmth of ramen with the nutty richness of peanut butter and the crunch of sesame, for a uniquely delicious bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
– Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, combine peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Heat over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Add the warmed broth to the peanut butter mixture, whisking until well combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and pour the peanut butter broth over top.
5. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Ramen with Tofu
This recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comforting warmth of ramen, adding tender tofu for a protein-packed twist. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of kimchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the kimchi to the pot and stir to combine with the garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add the cooked tofu back into the pot and stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked ramen noodles to the pot and stir to combine with the kimchi and tofu.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Ramen
Elevate your ramen game with this savory and aromatic recipe that combines the comforting flavors of garlic parmesan with the rich taste of Japanese noodles. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken or pork broth
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in broth, Parmesan cheese, and soy sauce (if using). Stir until cheese is melted and well combined.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the garlic parmesan mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Cook time: 10-12 minutes
– Total time: 15-17 minutes
Curry Coconut Ramen
Transform your ramen game with this creamy and aromatic Curry Coconut Ramen recipe! This comforting bowl of goodness combines the warmth of curry powder, the richness of coconut milk, and the noodles you love.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon of curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) of full-fat coconut milk
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken or tofu for added protein
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth and curry powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Stir in coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Add cooked noodles and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and optional protein (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ramen Carbonara with Bacon
Transform the classic Italian pasta dish into a Japanese-inspired delight by combining rich bacon, creamy eggs, and savory ramen noodles. This unique fusion is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked noodles, bacon, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Ginger Ramen
This vibrant and zesty ramen recipe combines the soothing warmth of ginger with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sliced almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, combine broth, grated ginger, lemon juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sliced almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Ramen
Savor the harmonious fusion of Japanese flavors with this mouthwatering Teriyaki Chicken Ramen recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups ramen noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– 1/4 cup bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pan, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Add chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Combine cooked ramen noodles, chicken mixture, and chicken broth in a large bowl. Stir well to combine.
4. Garnish with sliced green onions and bean sprouts (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Miso Ramen
Warm up with this spicy and savory Spicy Miso Ramen recipe, perfect for a comforting bowl on a chilly day. This Japanese-inspired dish combines the richness of miso paste with the bold flavors of chili flakes and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (or more to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, combine broth, miso paste, soy sauce, ginger, chili flakes, and garlic. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and additional chili flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ramen Noodle Soup with Shrimp
This classic Asian-inspired soup is a staple comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With the addition of succulent shrimp, it’s a meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked ramen noodles and green onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
BBQ Pork Ramen
Elevate your ramen game with the rich flavors of BBQ pork and tender noodles. This recipe combines the comfort of a warm bowl with the excitement of a summer cookout.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– Green onions, bean sprouts, and pickled ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Cook the pork until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and water to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the bowls by placing cooked noodles in the bottom, topping with pork and sauce, and garnishing with green onions, bean sprouts, and pickled ginger (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Ramen Stir-Fry with Broccoli
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional ramen! This recipe combines the savory flavors of store-bought or homemade ramen noodles with crisp broccoli and a hint of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce and cooked noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tomato Basil Ramen
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of ramen noodles with the bright flavors of summer tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine warmed broth, diced tomatoes, and chopped basil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked ramen noodles to the pot. Toss to coat with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ramen with Sautéed Mushrooms
Elevate your ramen game with the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked noodles and mushroom mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Lime Ramen
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chili flakes and lime juice with the comforting warmth of ramen noodles, creating a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon of chili flakes
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced green onions, bean sprouts, and/or sliced pork or chicken for added texture
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the ginger, chili flakes, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked noodles and hot broth mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ramen with Sweet Chili Sauce
Elevate your ramen game with this unique fusion of flavors! This recipe combines the classic Japanese noodle soup with the sweetness and heat of chili sauce, creating a truly addictive dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/4 cup of sliced scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup of diced cooked pork or chicken (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Top with sliced scallions and diced cooked pork or chicken (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ramen Noodle Salad with Cucumber
This light and zesty salad is a perfect twist on traditional ramen noodles. The addition of cool cucumber slices adds a delightful crunch and flavor to this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add cooked ramen noodles to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing.
4. Stir in sliced cucumber.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ramen with Soy Sauce and Green Onions
Elevate your ramen game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of soy sauce with the freshness of green onions. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of sliced green onions
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the water or broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and stir well to combine.
4. Top with sliced green onions and drizzle with sesame oil (if using). Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Elevate your ramen noodle game with these 20 easy and affordable recipes! From spicy garlic butter to cheesy fried egg, and from vegetable stir-fry to kimchi tofu, there’s something for every palate. Add some excitement with peanut butter sesame, curry coconut, or chili lime flavors. Try new twists like lemon ginger, teriyaki chicken, or ramen carbonara with bacon. Or go classic with a simple noodle soup or salad. These budget-friendly recipes prove that ramen doesn’t have to be boring – get creative and enjoy!
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