Description
This Cheesy Ramen Noodles recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender ramen noodles with a rich, creamy, three-cheese sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Enhanced with subtle spices and customizable toppings like bacon crumbles and green onions, this dish is perfect for a quick, indulgent meal that satisfies cheesy cravings in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
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 milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes
- 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, usually about 3-5 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Be careful not to overcook them as they will continue to cook in the cheese sauce.
- Drain the noodles: Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Shake off any excess water and set aside.
- Melt the butter: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan evenly.
- Make a roux: Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly golden, being careful not to burn the flour.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, incorporating fully before adding more to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat while stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon.
- Season the sauce: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Add the cheese: Reduce heat to very low. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy without clumps.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Add the drained noodles into the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat all the noodles evenly.
- Serve immediately: Serve the cheesy ramen hot with optional toppings such as hot sauce, bacon crumbles, green onions, or parsley for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, cook noodles al dente since they will soften further in the cheese sauce.
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce but 2% milk can substitute for a lighter option.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of smoky flavor.
- Customize toppings to taste such as crispy bacon, fresh herbs, or spicy hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in a skillet with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
