Kimchi Cheese Ramen is a warm and cozy dish that mixes spicy kimchi with creamy cheese and chewy noodles. It’s flavorful and super easy to make—perfect for a quick meal!
I love how the spicy and creamy flavors hit just right! You can customize it too. Add your favorite veggies or proteins if you want to make it even heartier. Yum! 🍜🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Instant Ramen Noodles: Any brand will do, but I prefer spicy flavors to kick up the heat. If you’re avoiding instant noodles, try rice noodles or udon, but cooking times will differ.
Kimchi: This is the star of the dish! Use store-bought for convenience, or make your own if you’re adventurous. If you’re sensitive to spice, go for milder kimchi or reduce the amount.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using cheddar for its great melting quality. However, mozzarella, gouda, or a blend would also work well. If you want a non-dairy option, try vegan cheese shreds.
Egg: It adds richness to the dish! You can substitute with tofu for a vegan version or skip it entirely if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Runny Egg?
Cooking a runny egg can be tricky, but it’s worth it for this recipe! Here’s my method:
- Heat your oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Crack the egg gently into the pan and let it cook without flipping.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolk remains runny. Use a lid to help cook the top!
Don’t rush this step—your ramen will be so much better with that delicious, runny yolk mixed in.
How to Make Kimchi Cheese Ramen
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package instant ramen noodles (preferably spicy flavor)
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1 ½ cups water (or as needed for ramen)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil or sesame oil
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes total—5 minutes to prepare and cook the noodles, and a few extra minutes for cooking the egg. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ramen:
In a pot, bring 1 ½ cups of water to a boil. Add the instant ramen noodles and cook them until they’re just tender, about 2-3 minutes. You want them soft but still with a little bite.
2. Incorporate Kimchi and Seasoning:
Once the noodles are cooked, add the chopped kimchi and the seasoning packet that comes with the ramen. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
3. Fry the Egg:
While your ramen is cooking, heat the olive or sesame oil in a small pan over medium heat. Crack the egg into the pan and fry it sunny-side up. Aim for about 3-4 minutes, until the egg white is set but the yolk is still runny. This will add creaminess when you mix it into the ramen later.
4. Add Cheese:
Turn off the heat underneath your ramen pot and stir in the shredded cheese. Give it a good mix to melt the cheese and create a creamy texture in your broth. It should be thick and delicious!
5. Serve it Up:
Pour your kimchi cheese ramen into a serving bowl. Carefully place the fried egg on top to make it look extra special.
6. Garnish:
Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top and add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy!
7. Enjoy!
Dig in right away! Stir the runny yolk into the ramen for a rich and luscious flavor. It’s a comforting dish that hugs you from the inside out. Enjoy your Kimchi Cheese Ramen!
Can I Use Different Noodles Instead of Ramen?
Absolutely! If you want to try something different, you can use udon noodles, rice noodles, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
What If I Don’t Have Kimchi?
No kimchi? No problem! You can use sautéed cabbage with a splash of soy sauce and a bit of hot sauce for a similar flavor profile. It won’t be the same but will still deliver a satisfying dish!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the egg with a silken tofu scramble or omit it entirely. Use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor. Adjust the kimchi to ensure it’s vegan, as some brands may contain fish sauce.