Let’s talk about instant noodles.
We’ve all got a soft spot for them. They’re fast, cheap, and get the job done when you’re hangry and staring into the fridge like it’s going to start cooking for you. But as much as we love that little foil flavour sachet… it’s time to set it down gently and walk away.
Enter: Garlic Butter Ramen. The flavour upgrade that turns your humble instant noodles into something you’d pay good money for in a café with plants hanging from the ceiling.
Why You’ll Love It
- 🍜 Ultra comforting and buttery
- 🧄 Packed with garlicky goodness
- 🥚 Add an egg for a silky boost of protein
- 🕒 Ready in 10 minutes
- 💰 Still budget-friendly (packet noodles, we salute you)
Ingredients (Serves 1 noodle lover)
- 1 pack instant noodles (any variety—ditch the flavour sachet unless you’re nostalgic)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or more, garlic fans unite)
- 1 tsp butter
- 1 egg (optional but amazing)
- A splash of soy sauce
📝 Use whatever noodles you have—this works with any shape or brand.
How to Make It
- Cook noodles as per the packet instructions. Drain some of the water, but keep a little splash in the pot for sauciness.
- Turn the heat to low, then stir in the butter, garlic, and soy sauce. Let the garlic mellow and the butter melt into the noodles.
- Feeling fancy? Crack in an egg. Stir it through quickly for a glossy, creamy finish. (Like carbonara, but the ramen remix.)
- Serve immediately. Bonus points if you eat it straight from the pot like the icon you are.
Noodle Hacks & Add-Ins
- Want heat? Add a pinch of chilli flakes or a squirt of sriracha.
- No fresh garlic? Use garlic powder in a pinch—but fresh is next-level.
- Make it a meal: Toss in frozen peas, spinach, or a handful of cooked chicken or tofu.
- Crispy topping idea: Fry some garlic slices in butter first, then set them aside to sprinkle on top at the end.
Why This Is the Ultimate Solo Dinner
Because it’s everything you want in winter:
- Steamy bowl? ✔️
- Savoury hit? ✔️
- Effort level: barely conscious? ✔️✔️✔️
You don’t even need to dirty a second pot. That’s a weekday win.
Store & Reheat
Honestly, this one’s best eaten fresh. The noodles don’t love sitting around—they tend to go a bit sad and soggy. But if you do have leftovers, reheat in a pan with a splash of water or extra butter to bring them back to life.
Try These Next
- One-Egg Fried Rice – for the same “scrappy pantry magic” feeling.
- Quick Mac & Cheese – cheesy, creamy comfort with zero judgment.
- Butter Chickpea Curry – another five-ingredient fave with takeaway vibes.
Final Thoughts: Garlic + Butter = Ramen Royalty
This is the kind of meal that makes you feel like a kitchen wizard. It’s cheap, it’s easy, and it tastes like comfort in a bowl. Honestly, it might ruin regular packet noodles for you forever. Sorry, little silver sachet—you’ve had a good run.
Tried it? Let us know what your go-to add-ins are! And don’t forget to share this recipe with anyone who thinks “ramen” just means boiling water and regret.
Plan4One: Because winter dinners should taste like a hug.
