Buttered ramen noodles are a quick and easy comfort food that can be whipped up in minutes. This recipe takes your basic instant ramen and elevates it with a few simple ingredients to create a delicious, satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a late-night snack, or a versatile side dish, buttered ramen noodles are the perfect solution.
Ingredients:
- 1 pack of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Cook Noodles: Add the ramen noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3 minutes.
- Drain Noodles: Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Buttered Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Sauce
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet, tossing them to coat evenly with the butter and seasonings.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toss again.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish: Transfer the buttered ramen noodles to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and delicious meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Customization: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers. You can also add protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Extra Flavor: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Cheese Lover: If you love cheese, try mixing in a bit of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy twist.
Variations:
- Spicy Buttered Ramen: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Lemon Butter Ramen: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Herbed Ramen: Mix in your favorite herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
FAQs:
Can I use other types of noodles? Yes, you can use any type of noodles you prefer, such as soba, udon, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the noodle type.
Can I make this dish vegan? Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and ensure your noodles are vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with buttered ramen noodles? Buttered ramen noodles are quite versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side. Pair them with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a protein of your choice.
How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Is there a gluten-free option? Yes, you can use gluten-free ramen noodles and tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Nutritional Information:
Buttered ramen noodles are relatively high in calories and fat due to the butter. To make a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of butter used or substitute it with a lower-fat option like olive oil. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming two servings per recipe):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
Buttered ramen noodles are a fantastic go-to recipe for when you need something quick, easy, and comforting. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can transform a simple pack of instant noodles into a flavorful and satisfying dish. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a late-night snack, or a side dish for dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and find your perfect buttered ramen noodle combination!
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers a canvas for creativity. You can enhance the basic recipe with a variety of additions and flavors to suit your taste. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the suggested variations, buttered ramen noodles are sure to delight your taste buds and provide a comforting meal any time of the day. Enjoy!
