Cheese ramen? You did read that correctly. soup with cheese noodles. We are continually fed weird meal combinations via the internet in this modern age. Some make us feel like they should be crimes, while others are acceptable and even pleasant. There is no need to panic if you enjoy both of the main components, even if this cheesy noodle mixture may seem like the latter.
This one-pot ramen dish was inspired by Korean cuisine. I now frequently use it. You may give this quick noodle recipe a try if you’re seeking for a new one. Your desires will always be sated without breaking the bank on food.
It’s definitely one of the simplest noodle dishes you’ll ever prepare. In essence, it is cheese-topped instant ramen noodles. It only needs a little work. When you don’t have time or aren’t in the mood to prepare a fancy supper but still want something delicious, this is ideal.
You may also add some red chili paste or flakes to the noodle to make it spicier. Please be careful not to serve this to younger children.
What is cheese ramen?
Indeed, cheese ramen is a traditional Korean comfort meal. It is essentially quick noodles with a cheese mixture, as the name would imply. Other than that, milk occasionally substitutes for the customary cup of hot water while making broth.
When US soldiers arrived in Korea during the war, they took non-perishable food with them, which included cheese. The dairy product persisted after the American troops withdrew and became a staple of Korean cooking. South Korea is now among the top 10 countries importing dairy products from the US.
The popularity of cheese ramen
In Korea, instant noodles are very well-liked. In fact, it is now a common food throughout the nation. There are several new noodle dishes that have been launched in Korea, from fast kimchi ramen to kewpie mayo ramen.
Although having a reputation as a Korean specialty, cheddar ramen is actually a favorite of many people worldwide. Who wouldn’t want it when it’s so inexpensive, delectable, and simple to make?
This cheesy meal recently experienced a worldwide resurgence thanks to TikTok’s promotion of it as lockdown comfort food. Many were horrified by the strange mix and eventually won over by its flavor after giving it a try. Many people who are now confined to their homes find solace in this fast supper.
THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE DISH
We struggle to refrain from eating quick ramen every day since we adore it. Though undoubtedly not the healthiest dinner, it is one of our vices! This dish is by no means healthy, but occasionally you simply have to indulge in inexpensive, efficient, and delectable dinners. We enjoy experimenting with different kinds of instant ramen, and this recipe is certainly one we’ll retain. A cheese instant ramen similar to this one has been spotted; it is as wonderful but more difficult to buy in stores and is unquestionably quite hot. This recipe is far more adaptable and flexible when made at home.
WHY DO KOREANS ADD CHEESE TO RAMEN?
Korean food, notably their quick noodles, is frequently spicy. As a result, cheese is frequently added to their meals to give them a softer flavor. This rich dairy product thickens, creamifies, and enhances the flavor of dishes like ramen.
As so many Korean cuisines contain this dairy element, South Korea is essentially a cheese lover’s paradise. Famous examples include the delectable Buldak, fried rice, and gooey Dakgalbi.
These cheesy instant noodles are available in a range from several well-known brands. The two most well-known brands of cheese ramen are Maruchan and Ottogi.
Why make this dish?
The best way to enjoy this dish is truly from scratch, which is preferable to purchasing a quick version from the supermarket. This is so that you may choose authentic, less-processed items like real cheese. Why not make it a little bit healthier given that we all know that quick noodles and sliced cheese are two EXTREMELY processed foods?
Also, certain quick varieties won’t allow you to fully feel the flavor of the spicy noodles. While being less expensive, several of them have unsatisfactory flavor and texture. Making it yourself would thus yield the tastiest cheese ramen and spare you from such dissatisfaction!
WHICH CHEESE TO USE
We personally utilized traditional cheddar cheese slices because we frequently see them in Korean eateries. Not going to lie, it also squeals with delight our inner kid! There are, of course, healthier choices (does healthy cheese really exist?). We advise doing the following:
A decent choice is mozzarella. It is light and complements spicy dishes beautifully. Bear in mind, though, that mozzarella often takes longer to melt.
Our preferred cheese is cheddar. Smooth yet with a tart, subtle edge. It also dissolves quite quickly!
For more cheese flavor, parmesan can be used.
If you want your Korean cheese ramen extra creamy, cream cheese is also a good option.
TOPPINGS IDEAS
We like this easy dish since you can pretty much add anything to it! When we’re pressed for time (or, let’s face it, lazy), we prefer to throw up this dish and serve it with something pickled on the side to cut through the richness and creaminess of the ramen. Put some of it in your hot Korean cucumber salad! Here are a few well-liked ramen toppings, though, if you’d prefer a more balanced meal:
- Noodle eggs
- Corn
- Seaweed
- spice oil
- Spam
How to Make Cheesy Ramen Noodles
In search of more comfort in your bowl of ramen? To create cheesy ramen, add a piece (or two) of American cheese!
Certainly, the phrase “cheesy ramen” conjures up images of late-night college meals. Yet, the origin of this dish is Korea. As American soldiers sent American cheese overseas during the conflict, the dish was born. The soldiers went home once the war was over, but the cheese remained in Korea. What follows is history!
Cheesy ramen is still a common, fast, and simple comfort dish in Korea and among Korean Americans today. With good cause, too; in addition to being cheesy and delicious, this straightforward dish just calls for three ingredients and has to be made in less than 10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 package ramen noodles, any flavor
- 2 cups water
- 2 slices American cheese (we used Kraft Singles)
Optional: Sliced green onions, fried egg or chili crisp
Directions
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to spruce up your ramen noodles, try making cheesy ramen! With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can turn your boring bowl of noodles into something savory and hearty. The cheese adds creaminess and flavor, plus it’s a great way to stretch the portion size without sacrificing taste. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make cheesy ramen:
1. Cook the ramen according to package instructions in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.
2. Once cooked, drain off any excess liquid and add desired seasoning packet, then set aside.
3. In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add a tablespoon of flour and stir until lightly browned.
5. Slowly add in the milk while stirring to avoid lumps from forming and cook until mixture is thickened and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese, onions, garlic powder, salt and pepper until everything is well combined.
7. Pour sauce over cooked ramen noodles and mix together until evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
TIPS FOR THE BEST CHEESE RAMEN
Although this recipe is incredibly easy to follow and practically foolproof, here are some suggestions for making the BEST Cheese Ramen.
If necessary, change the amount of water. Although we prefer our ramen to be on the creamier side, you can add 1/2 cup of water for a thinner broth.
Noodles should not be overcooked. Use the ramen packet’s directions to undercook your noodles by 1 minute to avoid having mushy noodles.
Observe the milk for bubbles. Wait until the milk bubbles to give the ramen soup enough time to thicken.
Before adding the cheese, turn off the heat.
Related questions
Q: How do I store cheesy ramen?
A: Cheesy ramen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Q: How do I reheat cheesy ramen?
A: You can reheat cheesy ramen in the microwave or on the stovetop. To reheat in the microwave, place desired amount of noodles in a bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. To reheat on the stovetop, place the desired amount of noodles in a pot and cook over medium heat until warmed through, stirring frequently.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to my cheesy ramen?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms or spinach and even protein like chicken or shrimp for an extra filling meal. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce or chili powder for an extra kick of flavor.
Final verdicts
So there you have it, a simple and delicious way to make ramen that is sure to please. This dish is perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and comfort food just won’t cut it. Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting. Bon appetit!
Ramen is one of the cheapest and most convenient meals out there, but it can get boring if you eat it all the time. That’s why we’ve come up with a few ways to make your ramen more interesting. With these tips, you can turn a cheap and easy meal into something that you’ll actually look forward to eating. Give them a try and see for yourself! And if you need help coming up with even more ideas, contact us at Angelo’s Burgers – we’d be happy to help.