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!
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my kitchen for busy weeknights when I want comfort without fuss.
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.
Save to Pinterest My family enjoys gathering around the table to share this dish especially on nights we want something quick but delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving contains approximately 610 calories with 32 grams of total fat and 23 grams of protein.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or add sautéed mushrooms peas or spinach for extra veggies.
Tips for Perfection
Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor and toss noodles quickly to prevent scrambling the eggs.
Save to Pinterest This carbonara ramen fusion is a fast comforting meal that impresses every time.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use fresh pasta instead of ramen noodles?
Fresh pasta will work but absorbs sauce differently; adjust cooking time and sauce amount accordingly to maintain creaminess.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Simply omit bacon or pancetta and cook with butter or olive oil to retain rich flavor without meat.
- → What type of cheese is best for the sauce?
Grated Parmesan cheese melts smoothly and adds the signature savory, nutty flavor essential to the creamy sauce.
- → Is it necessary to reserve noodle cooking water?
Yes, adding reserved cooking water helps loosen the sauce for a silky texture and better coating of noodles.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach complement the creamy sauce and add nutritional variety.