Best instant ramen ever
Best instant ramen ever!!!! 😍 is a easy Japanese recipe that serves 2. 560 calories per serving. Recipe by amateurprochef on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 13 min | Total: 33 min
Cost: $2.15 total, $1.08 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 package Instant Ramen Noodles (any brand, keep the seasoning packet)
- 2 stalks Green Onions (trimmed and sliced thinly)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger Garlic Paste (store‑bought or homemade)
- 0.33 cup Heavy Cream (adds richness; can substitute half‑and‑half)
- 1 tablespoon Curry Powder (Japanese or mild Indian curry powder)
- 1 packet Ramen Seasoning Packet (from the instant ramen package)
- 1 slice Cheese Slice (American, cheddar, or any meltable cheese)
- 0.5 cup Noodle Water (reserved from cooking the noodles)
Instructions
Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add the instant ramen noodles and cook according to the package directions, usually 3 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the hot noodle water, then drain the noodles in a colander.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: boiling
Prep the Aromatics
While the noodles cook, slice the green onions into 1‑inch pieces.
Time: PT2M
Sauté Green Onions
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced green onions and sauté for 2‑3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: medium
Add Ginger‑Garlic Paste
Stir in 1 tablespoon of ginger‑garlic paste and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
Time: PT0.5M
Temperature: medium
Create the Creamy Curry Base
Add 1/3 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon curry powder, and the ramen seasoning packet. Stir continuously for 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: medium
Melt the Cheese
Place a slice of cheese on top of the sauce and let it melt, stirring gently for about 30 seconds.
Time: PT0.5M
Temperature: medium
Incorporate Noodle Water
Pour the reserved 1/2 cup noodle water into the pan, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for 1 minute to meld flavors.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: medium
Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, toss gently to coat evenly with the creamy curry sauce. Cook for another 1‑2 minutes so the noodles absorb the flavors.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: medium
Serve
Transfer the ramen to bowls, garnish with extra sliced green onions if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT0.5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 560
- Protein
- 15g
- Carbohydrates
- 62g
- Fat
- 22g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian (if using dairy cheese), Contains dairy, Contains gluten
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten, Soy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Instant Ramen Noodles: fresh egg noodles, soba noodles
- Instead of Green Onions: chives, scallions
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: canola oil, sesame oil (use less)
- Instead of Ginger Garlic Paste: minced fresh ginger and garlic (1 tsp each), garlic‑ginger powder
- Instead of Heavy Cream: half‑and‑half, whole milk + butter
- Instead of Curry Powder: curry paste (1 tsp), garam masala (1 tsp)
- Instead of Ramen Seasoning Packet: soy sauce + a pinch of sugar, instant miso paste
- Instead of Cheese Slice: mozzarella slice, vegan cheese slice
- Instead of Noodle Water: chicken broth, vegetable broth
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Cutting Board
- Chef Knife
- Skillet or Frying Pan
- Measuring Cups
- Wooden Spoon
- Ladle (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boiling the noodles and reserving noodle water
- Sautéing green onions without burning
- Melting the cheese into the sauce
- Tossing noodles to fully coat with sauce
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑quality Japanese curry powder for authentic flavor.
- Reserve the noodle water before draining; its starch is key to a silky sauce.
- For extra umami, finish with a drizzle of sesame oil.
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too thick.
Add a little more reserved noodle water or broth until desired consistency is reached.
Cheese does not melt smoothly.
Lower the heat slightly and cover the pan for 30 seconds, then stir.
Noodles are soggy.
Do not overcook the noodles; cook them al dente according to package instructions.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer: Not recommended; noodles become mushy after freezing.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Slice green onions and measure all ingredients ahead of time.
- Cook the noodles and store them in the fridge; reheat with a splash of water before adding to sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of ramen in Japanese cuisine?
Ramen originated in China but became a staple of Japanese street food in the early 20th century, evolving into countless regional styles. It symbolizes comfort and quick nourishment, especially after work or school.
What are traditional regional variations of ramen in Japan?
Japan boasts many ramen styles such as Sapporo miso ramen, Hakata tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen, Tokyo shoyu (soy sauce) ramen, and Kitakata shio (salt) ramen, each featuring distinct broths and toppings.
How is ramen traditionally served in Japan?
Ramen is typically served in a deep bowl with the broth, noodles, and toppings arranged separately so diners can mix them as they eat. Common toppings include sliced pork, nori, boiled egg, and green onions.
What occasions or celebrations is ramen associated with in Japanese culture?
Ramen is a casual everyday meal but is also enjoyed during late‑night gatherings, university festivals, and as a comfort food after exams or long work hours.
What makes this Creamy Curry Ramen special in Japanese‑fusion cuisine?
The addition of curry powder, heavy cream, and melted cheese transforms instant ramen into a rich, Western‑inspired comfort dish while still honoring the quick‑cook spirit of Japanese ramen.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for ramen versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ramen uses wheat noodles, a broth made from pork, chicken, or seafood, and toppings like chashu and menma. In this recipe, cream and cheese are modern twists; you can substitute them with half‑and‑half or a vegan cheese if needed.
What other Japanese dishes pair well with this Creamy Curry Ramen?
Serve it alongside a simple cucumber sunomono salad, gyoza dumplings, or a side of edamame for a balanced meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Creamy Curry Ramen?
Common errors include overcooking the noodles, burning the green onions, and adding too much cream which can make the sauce greasy. Follow the timing cues and reserve noodle water to control consistency.
Why does this recipe use cream and cheese instead of a traditional broth?
Cream and cheese create a velvety, indulgent coating that mimics a rich broth while keeping the preparation fast; the noodle water provides the necessary starch to bind the sauce.
Can I make this Creamy Curry Ramen ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can cook the noodles and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine just before reheating to maintain texture.
What does the YouTube channel amateurprochef specialize in?
The YouTube channel amateurprochef focuses on simple, budget‑friendly home cooking tutorials that upgrade everyday pantry staples into tasty meals.
How does the YouTube channel amateurprochef's approach to Japanese‑inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?
amateurprochef emphasizes quick, minimal‑equipment techniques and creative twists on instant products, whereas many other channels may focus on traditional, time‑intensive recipes.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
