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Ramen carbonara brings together comfort foods from two worlds into one unforgettable bowl You get the creaminess of classic Italian carbonara with the bold savory punch of Korean ramen This is my go to recipe when I need something fast but crave real indulgence It is playful fusion done right and always leaves you scraping the bowl
I first tinkered with this when I was craving both ramen and a pasta dinner My friends now beg me to make it whenever we hang out It makes everyone smile and it is just plain fun
Ingredients
- Ramen noodles: Firm chewy noodles make a perfect base Choose your favorite instant brand for texture
- Ramen seasoning: Brings deep umami and salt use only one packet for balance
- Garlic: Fresh and aromatic It gives the sauce warmth and depth Always use fresh cloves for punchy flavor
- Bacon: Adds rich salty notes and meaty texture Opt for thick cut or premium bacon if possible
- Eggs and yolks: Traditional carbonara creaminess Use the freshest eggs for a silkier sauce
- Parmesan cheese: Sharpness and richness Grate fresh rather than using pregrated for the best melt
- Gochujang: The spicy magic Choose top shelf Korean chili paste for authentic heat and subtle sweetness
- Black pepper: Wakes up every bite Use freshly cracked if you can
- Chives: Fresh flavor and a little color Use clean bright green chives for garnish
- Egg yolk: Extra creamy topping if you want it choose a golden delicious yolk
- Sesame seeds: Tiny toasty crunch white or black both add a great finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients:
- Finely grate your parmesan cheese to encourage even melting Slice your bacon as thin as possible so it gets crispy but stays chewy later Set both aside for quick access as timing is everything with this recipe
- Mix the Carbonara Sauce:
- Crack one whole egg and two egg yolks into a mixing bowl Add your parmesan cheese Gochujang and black pepper Whisk it all together until smooth and thick It should look like a paste This helps the sauce cling to each noodle later
- Boil the Ramen:
- Cook the noodles according to their package directions Use a timer so you get that perfect chewy bite If you want a silkier result save at least half a cup of the cooking water for the sauce
- Cook the Bacon and Garlic:
- Place your sliced bacon into a hot pan over medium high heat Stir and cook for around five minutes Watch closely so it gets crisped on the outside but stays soft inside Once the bacon looks right add the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds You want the garlic fragrant but not browned
- Combine Noodles With Sauce and Bacon:
- Add your cooked ramen noodles to the pan with bacon and garlic Drop in your eggy parmesan sauce and sprinkle over the ramen seasoning packet Turn off the heat immediately Stir rapidly and constantly The residual heat will cook the sauce into a creamy glossy finish without scrambling the eggs
- Adjust and Serve:
- Slowly splash in some ramen cooking water one spoonful at a time stirring all the while Stop when the noodles are slick and the sauce is rich but not runny Plate the noodles generously Grate over extra parmesan and scatter with chopped chives If you wish top with a fresh egg yolk at the center and a sprinkle of sesame seeds
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My kitchen always smells irresistible when I make this The crispy bacon and garlic sizzling together is my favorite part My partner always sneaks a taste before I finish plating just for that aroma
Storage Tips
Leftovers are best enjoyed soon after cooking since the sauce may thicken in the fridge If you are storing the ramen let it cool slightly then transfer to an airtight container Reheat gently using a splash of water and a low flame stirring so the sauce regains its creamy texture Eating within a day gives the best experience for both taste and texture
Ingredient Substitutions
No gochujang on hand Try a blend of sriracha and a touch of miso paste for a similar spicy creamy effect No bacon Swap in pancetta or even smoked tofu for a vegetarian twist and fry until golden Dairy free needs Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan and try plant based butter
Serving Suggestions
Add steamed broccoli spears or baby spinach for freshness and color You can double down on protein with a softboiled egg sliced on top Some like it extra spicy so serve with chili crisp on the side or a few dashes of hot sauce Eat straight from the pan or in wide shallow bowls for true comfort
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Enjoy this indulgent dish and savor every single bite It is quick easy and packed with flavor what’s not to love
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other ramen brands for this dish?
Yes, most ramen brands will work, though Shin Ramyun offers a spicy flavor that complements the sauce well.
- → What does Gochujang add to the noodles?
Gochujang provides a spicy umami depth and helps balance the creamy richness of the sauce.
- → Is it necessary to add ramen seasoning?
The seasoning packet enhances the umami flavors. You may adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
- → How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?
Toss the noodles and sauce off the heat, stirring quickly to emulsify without cooking the eggs.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and use a plant-based ramen. Add sautéed mushrooms or tofu for extra flavor.