Save A bold fusion dish combining creamy Italian carbonara sauce with spicy, savory ramen noodles for an irresistible twist.
I first made this spicy ramen carbonara when craving comfort food with a bit of heat. The creamy sauce mixed with chewy noodles became an instant favorite for my family.
Ingredients
- Noodles: 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- Sauce: 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Meats: 4 oz (115 g) pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
- Aromatics & Garnish: 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 scallion, finely sliced, 1/2 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional), sriracha or chili oil, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 3 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) cooking water, then drain noodles.
- Make Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan, heavy cream, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook Pancetta:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta or bacon until crisp and golden, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss With Noodles:
- Reduce heat to low. Add drained noodles to the skillet and toss to coat in rendered fat.
- Create Carbonara:
- Remove skillet from heat. Immediately pour egg mixture over noodles, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. Add a splash of reserved noodle water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Divide ramen carbonara between two bowls. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil, if desired. Serve immediately.
Save Sharing this ramen at the dinner table is always a hit. My kids love customizing their bowls with extra chili oil and sesame seeds.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, mixing bowl, whisk, tongs
Allergen Information
Contains: Egg, milk, wheat, and pork (if using pancetta or bacon). Sesame might be present if garnished; check labels if sensitive.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 575, Total Fat: 29 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 24 g
Save Try this spicy ramen carbonara for a unique dinner with bold flavor. It is sure to become a delicious staple in your fusion recipe collection.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use regular spaghetti instead of ramen?
Yes, spaghetti can be substituted, but ramen noodles provide a chewier texture and a unique twist that complements the fusion concept.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from scrambling?
Remove the skillet from heat before adding the egg mixture and toss quickly. Adding reserved noodle water gradually helps maintain a silky sauce.
- → What meat alternatives work well?
Turkey bacon, vegetarian bacon, or sautéed mushrooms can be used instead of pancetta or pork-based bacon for lighter or meatless options.
- → Is this dish spicy?
It's moderately spicy from crushed red pepper flakes and optional sriracha. Spice levels are easy to adjust to taste.
- → Which garnishes pair best?
Scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of chili oil or extra Parmesan are excellent finishing touches that highlight flavor and texture.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
Omit pancetta/bacon and add steamed vegetables, mushrooms, or plant-based alternatives to adapt this dish for vegetarians.