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Cheesy Ramen Noodles: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. Drain the noodles: Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Shake off any excess water. Set aside.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. Serve: Serve the cheesy ramen noodles immediately while they are hot and the cheese sauce is melted and creamy.
  11. 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

Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/cheesy-ramen-noodles-the-ultimate-comfort-food-recipe/