Introduction

This Instant Ramen Grilled Cheese is a fun and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Using crispy ramen noodle buns instead of bread creates a unique texture and flavor that’s sure to surprise and delight. It’s quick to make and perfect for a satisfying snack or meal.

The image shows a white plate on a white marbled surface with a stack of two halves of a sandwich made from cooked instant ramen noodles instead of bread. The sandwich has three visible layers: the top and bottom layers are golden, curly ramen noodles, and inside there is a smooth, yellow layer of melted cheese and a thick white layer of what looks like cooked chicken or a similar filling. Red sauce, likely ketchup, is drizzled across the top noodle layer in three thin lines. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package (3 oz) instant ramen noodles, flavor packet reserved or discarded
1 large egg
4 slices (2.8 oz) cheddar cheese or cheese of choice
2 teaspoons hot sauce, adjust to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the instant ramen noodles and cook for 2 minutes until just tender. Drain thoroughly and allow to cool slightly.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat the egg. Add the drained noodles and season lightly with salt and pepper. Mix until the noodles are evenly coated with the egg.
Step 3: Divide the noodle mixture into four equal portions. Press each portion firmly into a ring mold or a small bowl lined with parchment paper to form compact patties approximately the size of sandwich bread slices.
Step 4: Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the noodle patties in batches if needed, about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove the patties and set aside.
Step 5: Place two noodle patties on a clean surface. Top each patty with two slices of cheddar cheese and drizzle with hot sauce. Cover with the remaining patties to form sandwiches.
Step 6: Wipe the skillet clean, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, and return the sandwiches to the pan. Cook over low heat, pressing gently, for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the cheese is fully melted and the outside is crispy.
Step 7: Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding herbs like chives or parsley to the noodle mixture before forming patties.
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack to change the cheese profile.
Adjust the hot sauce to your spice preference or substitute with sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
Make smaller patties for bite-sized sliders perfect for parties or snacks.

Storage

Store any leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to crisp up the noodle buns again and melt the cheese. Avoid microwaving as it may make the noodles soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a stacked ramen noodle burger cut in half on a white plate with a white marbled surface background. The burger has three layers of wavy cooked ramen noodles that look slightly golden brown and crispy on the edges. Between the noodle layers are two thick, bright yellow melted cheese slices that look smooth and creamy. The top ramen noodle layer is covered with a zigzag drizzle of bright red ketchup. The burger looks soft and gooey inside and firm outside, with a clean cut showing all layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of noodles for this recipe?

Instant ramen noodles work best because they hold together well when cooked with egg and crisp up nicely. Other thin, quick-cooking noodles may not form stable patties.

Is it okay to discard the flavor packet?

Yes, the flavor packet is optional. If you prefer a less salty or less intense flavor, you can discard it. Adding your own seasonings allows more control over taste.