Pin it The first time I saw ramen grilled cheese on a late-night food blog, I actually laughed out loud. It sounded ridiculous, like something dreamed up in a college dorm at 2 AM. But the next afternoon, I found myself staring at two packs of instant noodles leftover from the week before, and suddenly the idea didnt seem so crazy anymore. My kitchen smelled like butter and nostalgia within minutes.
I made these for my brother on a rainy Sunday when we were both feeling a little homesick. He took one bite, eyes widened, and immediately asked why wed never thought of this growing up. We ate three sandwiches each while watching terrible movies, and it became one of those days that stuck in my memory not because anything special happened, but because the food was exactly right.
Ingredients
- Instant ramen noodles: The seasoning packets get tossed, but the curly noodles are perfect for holding together
- Eggs: These act as the binder that transforms loose noodles into patties that actually stay intact
- Shredded mozzarella and cheddar: Mozzarella gives you the dramatic cheese pull while cheddar brings the sharp flavor
- Butter or neutral oil: Butter tastes better but oil gives you an even crispier exterior
Instructions
- Prep the noodles:
- Cook ramen according to package directions, drain well, and let cool just enough to handle
- Make the ramen mixture:
- Beat eggs with pepper and garlic powder, then toss with the cooled noodles until every strand is coated
- Form your buns:
- Divide into four equal portions and press firmly into round patties, using a ring mold or small bowl if you want them perfectly shaped
- Crisp the patties:
- Cook in butter over medium heat for three to four minutes per side until golden and holding their shape
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Layer cheese between two ramen buns and press gently but firmly
- Melt it all together:
- Cook the assembled sandwiches over medium-low heat, pressing lightly, until the cheese transforms into gooey perfection
Pin it My roommate walked in while I was pressing the first batch of noodle patties and looked genuinely concerned. By the time she smelled the butter and cheese, though, she was already grabbing a plate. Now she requests them whenever we have people over, watching everyone is face when they bite down expecting bread and getting crunch instead.
Cheese Choices That Work
Ive tried so many combinations in my experiments. Mozzarella alone is too mild, cheddar alone can be oily. Together they strike this perfect balance of stretch and flavor. Gruyère adds this nutty sophistication that feels almost fancy, while pepper jack brings the heat that makes people sit up and pay attention.
Getting That Perfect Crisp
The secret is patience with that first fry. Dont rush the noodle patties, let them develop that deep golden color and genuine crunch. If theyre pale, theyll be sad and soggy later. Medium heat gives you the crispness without burning the noodles before they cook through.
Serving Ideas That Make It A Meal
Sometimes simple is exactly what works. A bowl of tomato soup turns this into the most nostalgic dinner possible, while a light green salad cuts through all that richness beautifully.
- Sriracha or kimchi inside adds this incredible kick that wakes everything up
- Sliced scallions bring a fresh bite that balances the heavy cheese
- A fried egg on top turns it into breakfast the next day
Pin it Sometimes the most ridiculous ideas are the ones that stick around. This started as a joke and ended up in my regular rotation, and honestly, those are the best recipes anyway.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the ramen buns crispy?
After mixing cooked ramen with eggs and seasonings, press the mixture into patties and pan-fry them over medium heat until both sides turn golden brown and crisp.
- → Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?
Yes, any good melting cheese like Gruyère, provolone, or fontina works well alongside mozzarella and cheddar for varied flavors.
- → What is the best way to shape the ramen buns uniformly?
Using a ring mold or a small bowl lined with plastic wrap helps create consistent, round patties that cook evenly.
- → Are there suggested additions to enhance the flavor?
Try adding sliced scallions, sriracha, or kimchi inside the sandwich for extra depth and spice.
- → What oil is recommended for frying the patties?
Unsalted butter or a neutral oil works well to achieve a crispy texture without overpowering flavors.