This viral TikTok ramen hack takes a humble packet of instant noodles and transforms it into a rich, savory, and indulgent dish in just 10 minutes. With a luscious sauce made from butter, soy sauce, and brown sugar, topped with gooey melted cheese and a soft, jammy egg, it’s the ultimate comfort food for busy days or late-night cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the perfect example of how simple pantry staples can be elevated into something incredibly satisfying. Here’s why it has earned its viral status:
- Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal effort
- Uses one pot or skillet—ideal for quick clean-up
- Sweet, salty, and savory flavors with a touch of heat
- Creamy texture from melted cheese and a soft-cooked egg
- Totally customizable with your favorite toppings or proteins
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 packet instant ramen (any flavor, discard seasoning)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 egg
- 1 slice American cheese (or mozzarella for extra stretch)
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives or scallions
Directions
- In a small pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook until slightly underdone, about 2 minutes. Drain the noodles, reserving 2–3 tablespoons of the cooking water.
- In the same pot or a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce and brown sugar. Allow the sauce to bubble slightly, blending the flavors.
- Return the cooked noodles to the pot along with a splash of the reserved noodle water. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- Crack an egg directly into the pot. Cover with a lid and cook for 1–2 minutes, or until the egg white is set but the yolk remains runny.
- Place the slice of cheese over the noodles, cover again briefly to allow the cheese to melt fully.
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped chives or scallions and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 1 serving
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 420 kcal
Variations
- Spicy Ramen: Add sriracha or a spoonful of chili crisp for more heat.
- Protein Boost: Add leftover chicken, tofu, or a second egg for extra protein.
- Cheese Swaps: Use shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or even a soft-boiled egg instead of cheese.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas.
- Korean-Inspired: Add a small spoon of gochujang for a smoky, spicy twist.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, if needed, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may overcook the egg and cheese.
FAQs
Do I have to discard the ramen seasoning packet?
Yes, the homemade sauce replaces it for a fresher, less processed flavor. However, you can save it for future use in soups or other dishes.
Can I use any type of ramen?
Yes, any basic instant ramen variety works. Avoid specialty flavored broths since the seasoning packet will be discarded.
Is American cheese necessary?
It melts beautifully, but you can substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or another melty cheese of your choice.
Can I make this without an egg?
Yes, the egg adds richness, but it’s optional. The dish is still flavorful without it.
How do I keep the egg yolk runny?
Cook it covered for just 1–2 minutes until the white sets. Overcooking will firm up the yolk.
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Regular soy sauce works well. For a less salty option, use low-sodium soy sauce.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, omit the cheese and use plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
What’s the purpose of the reserved noodle water?
It helps bind the sauce to the noodles and adds a silky finish due to its starch content.
Is this dish spicy?
Only if you include the red pepper flakes. You can adjust or omit the spice based on preference.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients. Be mindful of cooking times and use a larger skillet or pot.
Conclusion
This TikTok ramen hack proves that even the simplest ingredients can create a bold and flavorful dish in minutes. With a creamy sauce, melted cheese, and a runny egg, it’s the perfect quick meal for when you’re short on time but craving something warm, savory, and indulgent. A viral recipe worth trying—and repeating.
PrintTikTok Ramen Hack
This viral TikTok ramen hack is a cheesy, eggy, and flavor-packed upgrade to instant noodles. With melted cheese, a runny egg, and a sweet-savory sauce, this quick ramen recipe is the ultimate comfort food in just 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Quick Meals, Snacks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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1 packet instant ramen (any flavor, discard seasoning)
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2 cups water
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 teaspoon garlic, minced
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1 egg
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1 slice American cheese (or mozzarella)
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 tablespoon chopped chives or scallions
Instructions
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Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot. Add ramen and cook until slightly underdone (about 2 minutes). Drain, reserving a few tablespoons of the water.
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In the same pot or a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
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Stir in soy sauce and brown sugar. Let it bubble slightly.
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Add noodles and a splash of reserved water. Stir to coat evenly.
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Crack an egg on top of the noodles. Cover and cook for 1–2 minutes until the white sets but yolk stays runny.
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Place cheese on top, cover again until melted.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chives or scallions. Serve hot.
Notes
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Adjust sweetness or spice to taste by varying brown sugar and red pepper flakes.
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For a stretchier texture, use shredded mozzarella instead of American cheese.
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Add protein like shredded chicken or tofu for a heartier bowl.