Introduction

Cheesy ramen noodles are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender noodles with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This easy recipe transforms simple ramen into a satisfying and indulgent meal perfect for any day of the week.

Cheesy Ramen Noodles: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

3 packages ramen noodles (any flavor, discard seasoning packets or save for another use)
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
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Hot sauce, to taste (optional)
Cooked bacon crumbles (optional, for topping)
Green onions, sliced (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: 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). Avoid overcooking as the noodles will continue to cook in the sauce.
Step 2: Drain the noodles well in a colander and shake off any excess water. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat until it coats the bottom of the pan evenly.
Step 4: Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. It should be smooth and slightly golden without burning.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 8: Reduce heat to very low. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 9: Add the drained ramen noodles to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat all noodles evenly.
Step 10: Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Step 11: Optionally, top with hot sauce, bacon crumbles, sliced green onions, or chopped parsley for added flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, use whole milk or a mix of milk and heavy cream.
Add cooked vegetables like peas or spinach to boost nutrition and color.
Substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
If you prefer a spicier dish, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the cheese sauce.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy ramen noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant ramen seasoning packets in this recipe?

It’s best to discard the seasoning packets for this recipe, as the cheese sauce provides enough flavor. You can save the packets for other uses or to add a small amount if you want extra seasoning.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives, such as almond or oat milk, and substitute vegan cheeses that melt well. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ slightly from the original.

Cheesy Ramen Noodles: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 122 reviews

Cheesy Ramen Noodles offer a delightful twist on classic instant noodles, transforming them into a rich, creamy, and comforting dish with a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal, this recipe uses a homemade cheese sauce made from a buttery roux and milk, seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and smoked paprika for extra depth. Garnished with optional toppings like crispy bacon, fresh parsley, or green onions, these noodles bring ultimate comfort in every bite.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

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

Garnishes (Optional)

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, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using) to the sauce. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to very low. Gradually add the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Make sure all the cheese is fully incorporated and there are no clumps. This step is crucial for a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
Combine: Add the drained ramen noodles to the cheese sauce. Gently toss the noodles to coat them evenly with the cheese sauce. Make sure all the noodles are well coated.
Serve: Serve the cheesy ramen noodles immediately while they are hot and the cheese sauce is melted and creamy.
Optional Toppings: Top with hot sauce, bacon crumbles, green onions, or parsley as desired.

Notes

Use whole milk for a richer and creamier cheese sauce, though 2% milk can be substituted for a lighter option.
Do not overcook ramen noodles; al dente texture keeps them from becoming mushy in the sauce.
Gradually adding milk to the roux prevents lumps and ensures a smooth sauce.
Adjust seasonings to taste, especially salt and pepper, after adding cheese, as cheese can be salty.
Optional smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth but can be omitted if preferred.
Try different cheese combos like gouda or pepper jack for varied flavor twists.
For a vegetarian version, omit bacon toppings.
Serve immediately, as the cheese sauce thickens and hardens upon standing.

Keywords: cheesy ramen noodles, comfort food, easy dinner recipe, cheese sauce, quick noodles, creamy noodles, ramen recipe