Ramen chips
Ramen chips is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 210 calories per serving. Recipe by Mike Made It on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 8 min | Total: 18 min
Cost: $0.96 total, $0.48 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 package Instant Ramen Noodles (any flavor, discard seasoning packet)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (light coating for crisping)
- 1 pinch Salt (optional, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (for dipping, room temperature)
Instructions
Break the noodles
Open the ramen package, discard the seasoning, and break the noodle block into bite‑size pieces (about 1‑inch pieces).
Time: PT1M
Coat with oil
Place the broken noodles in a mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, add a pinch of salt, and toss until every piece is lightly coated.
Time: PT2M
Pre‑heat the air fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it pre‑heat for about 2 minutes.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 400°F
Air fry the noodles
Spread the coated noodles in a single layer in the air‑fryer basket. Air fry for 6‑8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: 400°F
Cool and serve
Transfer the crispy ramen chips to a plate, let them cool for a minute, then serve with a side of mayonnaise for dipping.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 210
- Protein
- 4 g
- Carbohydrates
- 28 g
- Fat
- 10 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Wheat (gluten), Egg (mayonnaise), Soy (optional soy sauce)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Instant Ramen Noodles: Dry wheat noodles, Rice noodles (gluten‑free)
- Instead of Olive Oil: Vegetable oil, Canola oil
- Instead of Salt: Soy sauce (adds flavor), Seasoned salt
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, Sriracha mayo
Equipment Needed
- Air Fryer
- Mixing Bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring Spoon
- Plate
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Break the noodles into uniform pieces before oiling.
- Do not overcrowd the air‑fryer basket; this ensures even crisping.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to prevent burning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the oil for extra flavor.
- For a spicy version, toss the hot chips with a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
Troubleshooting
Chips are soggy after cooking.
Make sure the noodles are fully coated with a thin layer of oil and that the air‑fryer basket isn’t crowded. Increase cooking time by 1‑2 minutes if needed.
Noodles burn on the edges.
Shake the basket earlier (at the 4‑minute mark) and reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the remaining time.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; they will lose some crispness.
Freezer: Not recommended – texture degrades.
Room temperature: Best eaten immediately; can sit out for 30 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Break and oil the noodles up to 30 minutes ahead; keep them in a covered bowl at room temperature.
- Pre‑measure the mayo into a small dipping bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Ramen Chips in American snack culture?
Ramen chips are a modern, budget‑friendly twist on traditional Asian noodle dishes, popularized in the U.S. as a quick, cheap snack for college students and anyone on a tight budget. They reflect the American love of repurposing convenience foods into crunchy, finger‑food treats.
What are the traditional regional variations of Ramen Chips in the United States?
While there is no historic regional version, U.S. home cooks often add local flavors—like Cajun seasoning in the South, or soy‑ginger glaze on the West Coast—to make the chips reflect regional taste preferences.
How is Ramen Chips traditionally served in American casual gatherings?
They are typically served in small bowls or on a platter with dipping sauces such as mayonnaise, sriracha mayo, or soy sauce, making them a popular bar‑snack or dorm‑room treat.
What occasions or celebrations is Ramen Chips traditionally associated with in American culture?
Ramen chips are often made for late‑night study sessions, game nights, or as an impromptu snack during movie marathons when pantry supplies are low.
What makes Ramen Chips special or unique in American snack cuisine?
They turn an inexpensive instant noodle packet into a crunchy, savory snack with virtually no waste, showcasing creativity and frugality that resonates with many American home cooks.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Ramen Chips?
Common errors include using too much oil, overcrowding the air‑fryer basket, and not shaking the basket halfway, all of which can lead to soggy or burnt chips.
Why does this Ramen Chips recipe use an air fryer instead of deep‑frying?
Air frying uses far less oil, reduces mess, and gives a consistent golden crunch while keeping the snack lighter and healthier than traditional deep‑frying.
Can I make Ramen Chips ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can pre‑break and oil the noodles, then store them in a sealed container for up to 30 minutes before air‑frying. After cooking, keep the chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though they are best served fresh.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Ramen Chips?
The chips should be uniformly golden‑brown, crisp to the bite, and slightly puffed. They should not be dark brown or have any soft, soggy spots.
How do I know when Ramen Chips are done cooking?
When the noodles have turned a deep golden color and feel firm and crunchy when lifted from the basket, they are done. A quick taste test after cooling for a minute confirms the crunch.
What does the YouTube channel Mike Made It specialize in?
The YouTube channel Mike Made It focuses on ultra‑budget, no‑frills cooking tutorials that turn pantry staples into tasty meals and snacks, often with a humorous, candid style.
How does the YouTube channel Mike Made It’s approach to snack cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Mike Made It emphasizes speed, minimal ingredients, and a no‑nonsense attitude, often using everyday appliances like air fryers, whereas many other channels prioritize elaborate techniques or gourmet presentations.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
