Save to Pinterest A quick, creamy fusion dish blending Italian carbonara with the bold flavors and convenience of ramen noodles. Perfect for a satisfying meal in minutes!
Ingredients
- Noodles: 2 packs instant ramen noodles (flavor packets discarded)
- Sauce & Dairy: 2 large eggs 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving) 1/4 cup heavy cream 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Meats (optional): 3 slices bacon or pancetta, diced (omit for vegetarian)
- Flavor & Seasoning: 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Salt, to taste 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions (without seasoning packets). Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
- Step 2:
- While noodles cook, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and black pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon or pancetta until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside, leaving 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan (add butter if omitting meat).
- Step 4:
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 5:
- Add cooked ramen noodles to the skillet and toss to coat in the butter and garlic.
- Step 6:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Immediately pour in the egg and cheese mixture, tossing quickly to coat the noodles and create a creamy sauce. Add reserved noodle water a tablespoon at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Step 7:
- Stir in crispy bacon or pancetta (if using). Season with salt to taste.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.
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Save to Pinterest Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon or pancetta and cook with extra butter or olive oil for richness without meat.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
Toss the egg and cheese mixture with the hot noodles off the heat, adding reserved cooking water gradually to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- → What noodles work best for this dish?
Instant ramen noodles without seasoning packets work perfectly, providing a tender texture that absorbs the sauce well.
- → Can I add vegetables to this meal?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach can be incorporated for extra flavor and nutritional value.
- → What seasoning enhances the flavor the most?
Freshly ground black pepper and minced garlic are key to boosting the savory and aromatic qualities of the dish.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
Absolutely. Sprinkle red chili flakes over the finished dish for a gentle kick of heat.