Instant ramen and budget meals go hand in hand. All you have to do to find instant ramen hacks is go to ramenhacks on TikTok, and you'll join more than 667 million viewers finding new ideas for turning that packet of dried noodles into a brand new meal. Keep in mind there are some questionable ways people are using ramen—this ramen grilled cheese reviewed by chef Gordon Ramsey comes to mind. But there are also creative instant ramen hacks, such as lasagna and carbonara, that have the internet raving. Our favorite? "TikTok Ramen," which has 112 million views and counting. Instead of enjoying the instant ramen as a brothy soup, you make a quick sweet and spicy sauce before stir-frying with the noodles.
Instant Ramen Hack from TikTok
You won't be using the seasoning packet, so grab whatever packet of instant ramen you have on hand for this trendy TikTok instant ramen hack.
Step 1: Cook Noodles
Boil water and cook ramen noodles (without the seasoning) for about three minutes or until just-cooked so you don't end up with mushy noodles. Save a bit of the pasta water for the next step.
Step 2: Make Sauce
Melt 1 Tbsp. butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add two cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. brown sugar, 1 Tbsp. soy sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, to taste), and 1 Tbsp. pasta water (this helps the sauce stick to the noodles).
Step 3: Add Cooked Noodles
Add cooked ramen noodles and stir to combine with sauce.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Move noodles to one side of the skillet and add an egg to the pan. Most of the videos on social media scramble the egg and stir it together with noodles. We chose to fry the egg to add a bit of richness to the dish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Serve with everything bagel seasoning and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. Enjoy!
Feel free to adjust the ingredients by adding more heat, garlic, etc. There are also videos making the trendy recipe with sesame oil if you need a dairy-free swap for butter. Leave off the egg if you're allergic or plant-based (make sure the ramen noodles you're using are egg-free, too). Since you don't use the salty seasoning packet, this instant ramen hack is an excellent option if you're trying to avoid sodium (and save money!).