Best instant ramen ever!!! (Again)
Best instant ramen ever!!! (Again) is a easy Korean recipe that serves 1. 520 calories per serving. Recipe by amateurprochef on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 15 min
Cost: $1.45 total, $1.45 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 package Shin Ramen (Spicy Korean instant noodle pack, includes seasoning packet)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced finely)
- 1 slice Processed Cheese Slice (American cheese or mild cheddar, cut into small squares)
- 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half‑and‑half or whole milk plus butter)
- 2 cups Water (For cooking the noodles)
Instructions
Boil Water
Place the saucepan on the stove, add 2 cups of water, and bring to a rolling boil.
Time: PT2M
Cook Noodles
Add the Shin Ramen noodles to the boiling water and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to separate the strands.
Time: PT3M
Add Seasoning and Garlic
Stir in the seasoning packet and the minced garlic. Mix well and let simmer for another 30 seconds.
Time: PT30S
Melt Cheese
Drop the cheese slice into the broth, allowing it to melt completely while stirring gently.
Time: PT1M
Finish with Cream
Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, heat for another 30 seconds until the broth becomes silky and slightly thickened.
Time: PT30S
Serve
Turn off the heat, ladle the ramen into a bowl, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 520
- Protein
- 12g
- Carbohydrates
- 55g
- Fat
- 22g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Gluten, Dairy, Soy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Shin Ramen: Other Korean instant ramen (e.g., Samyang), Japanese instant ramen
- Instead of Garlic: 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Instead of Processed Cheese Slice: Cheddar slice, Mozzarella slice
- Instead of Heavy Cream: Half‑and‑half, Whole milk mixed with 1 tsp melted butter
- Instead of Water: Low‑sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Equipment Needed
- Medium Saucepan
- Stove
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Do not overcook the noodles; they should stay slightly al dente.
- Melt the cheese fully before adding cream to ensure a smooth texture.
- Add cream off the boil to avoid curdling.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra depth, replace water with low‑sodium chicken broth.
- Add a pinch of black pepper or chili flakes for additional heat.
- Top with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty finish.
Troubleshooting
Broth is too watery after adding cream.
Reduce the broth a minute longer before adding cream, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry to thicken.
Cheese does not melt smoothly.
Cut the cheese into smaller pieces and lower the heat; stir continuously until fully melted.
Noodles become mushy.
Cook noodles for only 3 minutes and remove from heat immediately; they will continue to soften slightly in the hot broth.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer: Not recommended; the texture of noodles and cheese changes after freezing.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 1 hour due to dairy.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre‑mince the garlic and store in a small airtight container.
- Measure the cream in a ramekin so it can be added quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Shin Ramen in Korean cuisine?
Shin Ramen, launched by Nongshim in 1986, quickly became Korea's most popular spicy instant noodle. It reflects Korea's love for bold, fiery flavors and is a staple for quick meals, late‑night snacks, and comfort food.
How does Shin Ramen differ from other instant ramen brands in Korea?
Shin Ramen is known for its thick, chewy noodles and a distinct red‑pepper‑based broth that balances heat with a savory depth. Other brands may use lighter broth or different spice blends, but Shin's signature spiciness and noodle texture set it apart.
What traditional Korean side dishes (banchan) pair well with this Cheesy Garlic Cream Shin Ramen?
Simple banchan such as kimchi, pickled radish (danmuji), or seasoned spinach (sigeumchi namul) complement the rich, creamy ramen by adding acidity and crunch.
Is it common in Korean home cooking to add cheese and cream to instant ramen?
While not traditional, Korean home cooks often experiment with cheese, butter, or milk to create a richer, “cheesy” ramen style, especially among younger generations influenced by Western comfort foods.
What occasions or celebrations is Shin Ramen traditionally associated with in Korea?
Shin Ramen is not tied to formal celebrations but is a go‑to comfort food for late‑night study sessions, rainy days, and quick meals after work or school.
What makes this Cheesy Garlic Cream Shin Ramen special compared to regular Shin Ramen?
The addition of melted cheese and a splash of cream transforms the broth into a velvety, savory sauce, while garlic adds aromatic depth, creating a richer, restaurant‑style experience with minimal effort.
How has the trend of “cheesy ramen” evolved in Korean food culture?
Cheesy ramen gained popularity in the 2010s through social media and food blogs, merging Korean spice with Western cheese comfort. It has become a viral food hack, often featured in YouTube channels like amateurprochef.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Cheesy Garlic Cream Shin Ramen?
Common errors include overcooking the noodles, letting the broth boil after adding cream (which can cause curdling), and not allowing the cheese to melt fully before stirring in the cream.
Why does this recipe add cream after the cheese rather than boiling the broth with cream from the start?
Adding cream at the end preserves its silky texture and prevents it from separating or curdling, which can happen if cream is boiled for too long.
Can I make Cheesy Garlic Cream Shin Ramen ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, add fresh cheese and cream just before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
What does the YouTube channel amateurprochef specialize in?
The YouTube channel amateurprochef focuses on quick, budget‑friendly cooking hacks, instant‑food upgrades, and approachable recipes for home cooks looking to elevate everyday meals.
How does the YouTube channel amateurprochef's approach to Korean instant‑ramen hacks differ from other cooking channels?
amateurprochef emphasizes minimal ingredient additions and step‑by‑step visual clarity, often using only three extra items to transform a basic ramen pack, whereas other channels may use more elaborate toppings or complex techniques.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
