Save I discovered this mashup on a Tuesday night when I was too lazy to decide between ordering takeout and actually cooking. The ramen packets in my cupboard stared at me, next to the forgotten cheese block from last weeks grocery run. What happened next was the kind of chaotic kitchen invention that only exhaustion can inspire.
My roommate walked in midway through, sniffing the air with genuine curiosity. I watched her face go from confused to absolutely delighted when I bit into that first sandwich and the cheese pulled apart in slow motion. Now she requests these whenever she has had a particularly terrible day at work.
Ingredients
- Instant ramen noodles: The cheap stuff works perfectly here, just save those seasoning packets for another day
- Eggs: These bind everything together into actual patties that wont fall apart when you flip them
- Black pepper and garlic powder: Minimal seasoning that makes a huge difference in the final flavor
- Mozzarella cheese: Provides that incredible stringy melt we all secretly love in grilled cheese
- Cheddar cheese: Adds the sharpness and depth that mozzarella alone cannot deliver
- Butter or neutral oil: Essential for getting those ramen buns properly golden and crunchy
Instructions
- Prep the ramen base:
- Cook the noodles just until al dente, then drain them really well because excess water will make your buns soggy and sad.
- Form the mixture:
- Whisk the eggs with seasonings first, then toss in the cooled noodles until every strand is coated.
- Shape your buns:
- Press each portion firmly into tight patties, using a ring mold if you want them to look restaurant perfect.
- Crisp them up:
- Cook the ramen cakes until they are deeply golden on both sides, letting them develop that satisfying crunch.
- Build and melt:
- Layer the cheese between two crispy buns, then return to the pan until everything is oozing and gorgeous.
Save These became our go to midnight snack during exam week last semester. Something about the crunch and the melted cheese just makes everything feel like it will be okay.
Best Cheese Combinations
I have experimented with so many cheese variations, but the mozzarella and cheddar duo remains unbeaten for that perfect balance of stretch and flavor. Gruyère adds a nutty sophistication if you are feeling fancy, while pepper jack brings the heat without needing extra condiments.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is how well it takes to customization. I have added everything from kimchi to sliced jalapeños, and each variation brings something completely new to the table.
Serving Suggestions
A simple tomato soup transforms this from snack to meal, though I often just serve it with a crisp green salad to cut through all that cheese. You could also go full diner style with some pickles on the side.
- Try a drizzle of sriracha mayo on top for extra creaminess and spice
- Fresh scallions add brightness and crunch that cuts the richness
- A side of seasoned dipping sauce takes this over the top
Save These ridiculous sandwiches started as a joke and ended up as a genuine staple in my kitchen. Some of the best things in life come from moments of culinary desperation.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you make the ramen buns crispy?
After boiling and draining, the ramen is mixed with eggs and seasoning, then shaped into patties and pan-fried over medium heat until golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- → Which cheeses work best for the filling?
Mozzarella and cheddar provide a gooey, flavorful melt, but Gruyère, provolone, or fontina are excellent alternatives for rich taste and smooth melting.
- → Can I add extra flavors inside the sandwich?
Yes, try sliced scallions, sriracha, or kimchi to introduce spicy or tangy notes that complement the crispy texture and cheese.
- → What is the best method to melt the cheese evenly?
After assembling the sandwiches, cook them in a lightly buttered skillet over medium-low heat, pressing gently to encourage even melting and crisping of the buns.
- → Are there any common allergens to be aware of?
This dish contains wheat from ramen noodles, eggs in the patties, and dairy from the cheese and butter, so it may not be suitable for those with these allergies.