Description

This Cheesy Ramen Noodles recipe transforms simple instant ramen into a rich, creamy, and comforting dish perfect for any time you need a quick and satisfying meal. Featuring a homemade cheese sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, this recipe elevates ramen noodles with velvety, cheesy goodness and optional toppings for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

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 whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Toppings

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, about 3-5 minutes, until tender but slightly firm (al dente). Avoid overcooking as noodles will cook more in the sauce.
Drain the noodles: Drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander, shaking off excess water. Set aside.
Melt the butter: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat, coating the pan evenly.
Make a roux: Whisk in the flour to the melted butter constantly for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk in 1/2 cup increments, ensuring smooth incorporation to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until creamy.
Simmer the sauce: Bring sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Lower heat to low and simmer 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened to coat a spoon.
Season the sauce: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Add the cheese: Reduce heat to very low. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Ensure no clumps remain.
Combine noodles and sauce: Add the drained noodles to the cheese sauce. Gently toss to evenly coat noodles with the sauce.
Serve immediately: Plate the cheesy ramen noodles while hot and creamy.
Optional toppings: Garnish with parsley, hot sauce, bacon crumbles, or sliced green onions as desired for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce, but 2% milk can also work.
Do not overcook ramen noodles to avoid mushy texture after combining with sauce.
A smooth roux is key to a creamy cheese sauce without lumps; whisk continuously when adding flour and milk.
Feel free to adjust cheese types and quantities to your preference for different flavors.
Optional smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth but can be omitted if undesired.
For a vegetarian version, omit bacon crumbles from the toppings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

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