For example, I’m a foodie, too, and every now and then, I long for something different, you know, food that is too ridiculously beautiful and just so quirky that somebody would say: “Wait, you actually made what?” That’s where the ramen lasagna enters the picture. It’s, like, the lovechild of lasagna and ramen and trust me: it works.
Before you start scratching your head, allow me to remind you that ramen noodles are actually lifesavers for those times when you want more ‘fun, cheap, and fast’ food.
Why Ramen Lasagna?
Okay, I’ll be honest
- It’s cheap. You only need a handful of ingredients, and most of them are pantry staples.
- It’s easy. No boiling noodles here—ramen noodles soften right in the oven.
- It’s delicious. Seriously, it’s like all the best parts of ramen and lasagna rolled into one gooey, cheesy masterpiece.
Plus, this recipe is perfect when you need to feed a hungry crew without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck surprise, it’s a surefire hit.You can even try using unique toppings to enhance the flavors further. For example, consider serving it alongside a hearty soup made from soup bones, which adds depth and warmth to the meal.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this ramen lasagna recipe:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 packs of instant ramen noodles (ditch the flavor packets for now!)
- 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce or homemade spaghetti sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional but adds tons of flavor)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional, but great for that creamy lasagna layer)
- 1 egg (to mix with the ricotta)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh basil or parsley for topping
- Red pepper flakes (for a kick)
- Veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini
For an equally delightful dish, consider pairing this with our Sassy Rice Recipe, a quick and flavorful rice side.
How to Make Ramen Lasagna
Let’s get into it step by step. I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and you’ll have dinner ready before you know it.
Step 1: Prep Your Meat Sauce
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s soft.
- Add your ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned.
- Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute—your kitchen’s about to smell amazing.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes so the flavors come together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro tip: If you’re going meat-free, skip the meat and just use a veggie-packed sauce.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture (Optional but Delicious)
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan. Mix it all together with a fork until it’s smooth and creamy. This step adds that classic lasagna richness, but if you’re skipping ricotta, don’t worry—it’s still fantastic.
Step 3: Assemble Your Ramen Lasagna
Now for the fun part—layering it all up!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom so nothing sticks.
- Break apart the ramen noodles into sheets. Place a single layer of ramen noodles over the sauce.
- Add another layer of sauce, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers—ramen noodles, sauce, ricotta, and cheese—until everything’s used up. Make sure the top layer is covered with plenty of mozzarella.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil (to keep the cheese from burning) and bake it for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. I know, waiting is hard, but it’s worth it.
This quick dish is ideal for those exploring new culinary horizons. If you’re into unique recipes, you might love our Frozen Hashbrowns Casserole, a perfect make-ahead option for busy days.
Tips for the Best Ramen Lasagna
- Don’t skip the resting time. This lets the layers set so you don’t end up with a soupy mess.
- Add veggies. Spinach or zucchini work like a charm if you want to sneak in some greens.
- Cheese is life. Be generous with the mozzarella—it’s what makes this lasagna ooey-gooey perfection.
What to Serve with Ramen Lasagna
This dish is already a heavy hitter, but if you want to round out the meal, here are a few ideas:
- Garlic bread. Because carbs on carbs are always a good idea.
- Simple side salad: A crisp green salad balances out the richness.
- Roasted veggies. Think broccoli, asparagus, or carrots for an easy side.
Can You Customize Ramen Lasagna?
You bet! One of the best things about this ramen lasagna recipe is how versatile it is. You can customize it to fit your taste buds or whatever you have in the fridge. Want a spicy kick? Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some chopped jalapeños. Prefer something creamy? Mix a bit of Alfredo sauce with the marinara for a rich, velvety texture. You could even swap out the mozzarella for a smoked gouda or sharp cheddar to mix up the flavors. Honestly, this recipe is like a blank canvas, and you’re the artist—make it your own!
Ramen Lasagna for Kids (They’ll Love It!)
If you’ve got picky eaters at home, this ramen lasagna recipe will undoubtedly be a total game-changer. For starters, kids love ramen noodles, and let’s face it—anything covered in melty cheese is an instant win. Furthermore, to sneak in some veggies, you can finely chop spinach, carrots, or zucchini and mix them into the sauce. As a result, they’ll blend right in, and the kids won’t even notice. Interestingly, my nephew calls this “pizza pasta with twisty noodles,” and honestly, I don’t correct him. After all, whatever gets them excited to eat, right?
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Weeknights
We all have those nights where cooking feels like an impossible task. The good news? You can totally prep this ramen lasagna ahead of time. Assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and pop it in the fridge. When dinnertime rolls around, all you have to do is bake it. It also freezes like a dream. Just prepare it, freeze it unbaked, and reheat it straight from the freezer—no thawing required. Talk about a lifesaver for busy schedules!
Fun Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a fun twist on this ramen lasagna recipe?
- Tex-Mex Style: Replace the marinara with taco-seasoned ground beef and salsa. Top with cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of cilantro for a southwestern vibe.
- Chicken Alfredo Version: Use cooked shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, and spinach for a creamy white lasagna.
- Breakfast Ramen Lasagna: Sounds wild, but it works! Layer cooked sausage, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheese with the noodles for a breakfast-inspired take.
These variations prove you don’t have to stick to tradition. Ramen noodles are flexible, and your options are endless.
How to Make It Extra Cheesy
If you’re like me, the more cheese, the better. For an extra cheesy ramen lasagna, don’t hold back on layering different cheeses. Besides mozzarella, you can mix in ricotta, provolone, or even a bit of fontina for that stretchy, gooey effect. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a golden, bubbly crust that makes you want to grab a fork right out of the oven. Pro tip: Add a handful of shredded cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for that irresistible melted finish.
Pairing Drinks with Ramen Lasagna
You might not think about drink pairings for lasagna, but they can totally level up the meal. You know, a light red wine like a Pinot Noir goes perfectly with the tomato sauce but without it being too overwhelming. And in case you can’t do well with wines, opt for a crisp, refreshing pale ale or lager to cut through the richness if you love beers. And what would be best for the kids or those who do not drink? A wonderful pair would be a tall, icy glass of iced tea or a lemon soda with fizzy bits in it. Trust me, good pairing of them makes you feel at home, just like a restaurant dinner.
The Secret Ingredient to Transform Your Ramen Lasagna
A secret to improving your ramen lasagna recipe: Garlic buttered noodles. Melt a few tablespoons of butter, mix in minced garlic, and then lightly brush that over the noodles before layering sauce and cheese. What that small, simple step does is give a pop of flavor that draws everything together and makes every bite even more tempting. It’s like the hidden flavor of buttery goodness in the lasagna that no one would expect but will definitely taste.
FAQs About Ramen Lasagna
Do I need to cook the ramen noodles first?
Nope! That’s the beauty of this recipe. The sauce softens the noodles as it bakes, so you can skip boiling altogether.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just skip the meat also load up your sauce with veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Can I use any type of ramen noodles?
Stick to the classic instant ramen packs. They’re thin, easy to layer, and soften perfectly in the oven.
How long does ramen lasagna last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
There you have it—ramen lasagna in all its cheesy, saucy glory. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and most importantly, it’s delicious. Whether you are whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or serving it to friends who love a good food mashup, it’s bound to be a hit.