Rev Up Your Ramen

Bring this classic college meal into adulthood.

By: Ryan Reed

Related To:

Ramen Noodles

Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen noodles.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

We’ve all been there. Up late at night cramming for an exam when you crave a late-night snack. For college kids and young adults, ramen is a go-to option because it’s quick, cheap and requires very few ingredients to make. You basically just add water, seasoning and microwave. Well, that’s all about to change.

Instead of dumping some generic chicken or beef flavored powder all over your noodles like usual, we decided to try something different. Using fresh ingredients, we turned a sad bowl of ramen into an Instagram-worthy dish. Check out the steps below and bon appetite!

We're sorry, there seems to be an issue playing this video. Please refresh the page or try again in a moment. If you continue to have issues, please contact us here.

Rev Up Your Ramen
Loading Video...

Store Bought is Fine

Start with a packet of ramen from the grocery store.

Substitution

Replace half of the water you would typically use to make ramen with chicken stock and pour the mixture into a pot over medium heat.

Air It Out

Aromatics

Aromatics

Garlic, curry powder, green onion and ginger.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Aromatics add flavor and aroma to a dish. We recommend using garlic, curry powder, green onion and ginger. Drop each ingredient into the water/chicken stock.

Seasons Greeting

Add half of the seasoning packet that comes with your ramen to the pot. You can add more to taste if you like.

Add Ramen

Drop your brick of noodles into the pot with all of the other ingredients and use a wooden spoon to move it around until the noodles start to soften.

Veggie Time

Bamboo shoots, shredded carrots and cabbage, mushrooms and bok choy.

Vegetables

Bamboo shoots, shredded carrots and cabbage, mushrooms and bok choy.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

With the noodles simmering in the pot, choose from a variety of veggies to add color and flavor to your dish. We went with bamboo shoots, bok choy, mushrooms, shredded cabbage and shredded carrots but you can add any veggie you like in this step.

Continue to stir as you add veggies in to make sure all the ingredients are blending well together. Your noodle brick should be pretty much broken up by now.

Ramen Noodles

Ramen Noodles

A pot of ramen noodles.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Protein Power

Protein

Protein

A rotisserie chicken, beef brisket, pulled pork and a soft-boiled egg.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Premade meat from the grocery store goes great with ramen. We recommend picking up some beef brisket, a rotisserie chicken and pulled pork. Pour the pot of ramen that you have been cooking into a large bowl and toss in your protein. Don’t forget the soft-boiled egg, too.

Top It Off

Finally, complete your masterpiece by topping the dish with chili paste, soy sauce and sesame seeds for a little added texture and crunch.

Ramen Noodles

Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen noodles.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Next Up

The Best Roasted Pumpkin Seed Recipe

Don't throw out the pumpkin seeds! Follow our recipe, and give this sweet treat as a host/hostess gift for the holidays.

How to Make Vegan Chocolate-Avocado Pudding

Avocados aren't just for guacamole and toast — they are also amazing with chocolate. Skeptical? This choco-avocado pudding will change your mind.

Halloween Dessert: Marshmallow Spider Web Doughnuts

Serve up some creepy-crawly fun this Halloween with these purple candy-dipped doughnuts covered in marshmallow "webs." A spider candy mold is needed for this recipe and can be found at most well-stocked craft stores and online. You can also use ready-made gummy spiders for an easy shortcut.

Warm Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider Recipe

Infused with the classic flavors of fall, this hearty pumpkin apple cider can easily be prepared in minutes and will fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma that's hard to resist. Because this recipe is nonalcoholic, it's ideal for kids and adults alike.

5 Delicious Ways to Use a Bottle of Red Wine

Take your bottle of pinot to the next level.

Fall Dessert: Pumpkin Maple Cupcakes

There's no better way to welcome fall than with a batch of homemade pumpkin-maple cupcakes topped with maple frosting, a maple syrup drizzle and pumpkin seeds.

Tips for an Easy-to-Make Hanukkah Cheese Board

Because there's no better way to say "Happy Hanukkah" than with cheese — literally.

How to Make Vegan Lasagna With Cashew Cheese

If you are a fan of cashews — and lasagna — this vegan lasagna is for you. Even meat-lovers will enjoy its nutty, rich flavor. This recipe is perfect for dinner parties, potlucks and game-day gatherings.

How to Make Vegan Baked Oats

These warm baked oats are ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert and everything in between. Top them with your favorite berries or chocolate chips for a fast and easy meal.

How to Make Vegan Gluten-Free Brownies

These extra-chocolaty vegan brownies will satisfy any sweet tooth. A perfect non-dairy and gluten-free dessert, these treats are just as gooey as the original version and are ideal for dessert or a midday snack. You'll thank us later.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.