Spicy Ramen Carbonara Twist (Printable Version)

Fusion of creamy carbonara and spicy ramen for bold flavor, ready in just 25 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Noodles

01 - 2 packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded

→ Sauce

02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1/2 cup (about 2 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
05 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

→ Meats

07 - 4 ounces pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced

→ Aromatics & Garnish

08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 scallion, finely sliced
10 - 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
11 - Sriracha or chili oil, for drizzling (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add instant ramen noodles and cook for approximately 3 minutes as directed on the package. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, then drain the noodles thoroughly.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until the mixture becomes smooth with no streaks.
03 - In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced pancetta or bacon for about 5 minutes until golden and crisp. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
04 - Lower the heat to low and add drained ramen noodles to the skillet, tossing so the noodles absorb the rendered fats evenly.
05 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately pour the prepared egg mixture over the noodles, tossing briskly to create a creamy sauce. Adjust consistency with a splash of reserved noodle water as required.
06 - Portion noodles into two bowls. Top with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil if desired. Present hot.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses easy to find pantry ingredients
  • Ready in under thirty minutes start to finish
  • Perfect for lovers of both Italian and Japanese comfort food
  • No need to hunt for obscure ingredients
  • The creamy sauce hugs every noodle for ultimate satisfaction
  • Spicy enough to wake up your taste buds yet still balanced
02 -
  • High in protein and deeply satisfying
  • Easy to make your own with extra vegetables or different meats
  • Brings together the comfort of two classic dishes in one bowl
03 -
  • Always remove the skillet from heat before adding the egg mixture or the sauce can break
  • Use only a splash of reserved noodle water at a time as too much can thin the sauce too far
  • Grate cheese at home for best melting results packaged grated cheese does not melt the same
  • If you want less heat reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and skip the extra chili oil
  • Twirl noodles into the bowl for a plated look or serve straight from the pan family style