Description
This Cheesy Ramen Noodles recipe transforms simple instant ramen into a rich, comforting dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Featuring a creamy homemade cheese sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, combined with perfectly cooked ramen noodles, this ultimate comfort food is easy to prepare and customizable with optional toppings like bacon, green onions, and hot sauce.
Ingredients
Ramen Noodles
- 3 packages ramen noodles (any flavor, discard seasoning packets or save for another use)
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Hot sauce, to taste
- Cooked bacon crumbles
- Green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the cheese sauce.
- Drain the noodles: Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Shake off any excess water. Set aside.
- Melt the butter: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is fully melted and coats the bottom of the pan evenly.
- Make a roux: Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which is the base for the cheese sauce. The roux should be smooth and slightly golden in color. Be careful not to burn the flour.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Season the sauce: Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using) to the sauce. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to very low. Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Ensure the cheese sauce is velvety with no lumps.
- Combine: Add the drained ramen noodles to the cheese sauce. Gently toss to coat the noodles evenly and thoroughly with the cheese sauce.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy ramen noodles immediately while hot and creamy.
- Optional Toppings: Garnish with chopped parsley, hot sauce, cooked bacon crumbles, and sliced green onions as desired.
Notes
- Do not overcook ramen noodles; they should be al dente to prevent mushiness when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Use whole milk for a richer cheese sauce; substitution with lower-fat milk may result in a thinner sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, after the cheese is incorporated.
- Optional smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth to the sauce but can be omitted if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon crumbles and ensure cheeses are vegetarian-friendly.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor; reheating may cause the cheese sauce to thicken or separate.
