Perfect Elevated Instant Ramen

Updated Nov. 25, 2024

Total Time: 10 minutes (prep + cooking)

Servings: 1

Ingredients (for 1 serving):

• 1 package instant ramen noodles (with flavor packet)

• 1 large egg (room temperature, optional)

• ½ teaspoon unsalted butter

• 2 slices (28g/1oz) American cheese, cut into small cubes (for faster melting)

• ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (store-bought or lightly toasted in a dry pan)

• ½ scallion, green portion only, thinly sliced on the bias (optional garnish)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Boil Water & Cook Noodles

In a small saucepan, bring 2.5 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the instant ramen noodles and cook for 2 minutes (to ensure al dente texture). After 2 minutes, stir in the flavor packet, then continue cooking for 30 seconds to fully dissolve the seasonings.

Step 2: Poach the Egg

Turn off the heat under the saucepan to stop noodle overcooking. Gently crack the egg into the center of the noodle-broth mixture. Use chopsticks or tongs to carefully pull a portion of the noodles over the egg, ensuring the egg is mostly submerged and completely covered by the noodles. Let the egg poach undisturbed for 1 minute to achieve a soft-boiled yolk (residual heat from the warm broth gently cooks the egg white).

Step 3: Assemble & Finish

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the noodles, egg, and broth to a large serving bowl. Add the butter and cubed American cheese. Stir vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the butter melts and the cheese emulsifies into the broth, creating a creamy, umami-rich coating. Top with toasted sesame seeds and scallion slices (if using).

Reader Reviews & Tips

• "Game-Changing Cheese Technique": "American cheese melts instantly and gives the broth the thickened, rich texture of real ramen shop broth. Never eating instant ramen any other way again."

• "Breakfast for Kids": "Decades ago, I made this for students at swimming lessons—50 kids in a cooler! It kept them warm and full. Don’t judge instant ramen too quickly."

• "Egg Poaching Adjustment": "I needed to poach the egg for 5 minutes (not 1) to avoid a raw yolk. Pull more noodles over the egg to ensure even cooking."

• "Cheese Melting Troubleshooting": "Is the cheese supposed to melt? Mine didn’t." (Note: Ensure the broth is warm but not boiling when adding cheese; room-temperature cheese melts faster.)

• "Retro Comfort": "This was my early-morning breakfast during Red Cross swim lessons. Simple, filling, and life-changing for students."

Pro Tip: For extra richness, substitute the American cheese with a slice of cheddar or add a pinch of garlic powder to the flavor packet!