Creative Ways to Enjoy Ramen for Dinner

Ramen has been feeding hungry coeds for years. Yet long after college, there is something about those 10-cent noodles that keeps calling us back. In fact, ramen was the inspiration behind our CORELLE® LIVINGWARE™ WINTER FROST WHITE 28-OZ BOWL. Generously sized with extra-deep sides, the bowls are a perfect match for salty broth and slurpy noodles.

Whether you’re living it up in the dorm or have graduated to being a grown-up, ramen still makes a great meal. With a few add-ins and a little creativity, you can actually hack a pack of ramen into dozens of different dinners. Here are the best.

Ramen Stir Fry

Replace rice with ramen for a tasty meal that’s quicker then takeout.

To make: Start with a package of Oriental ramen and cook as directed, reserving the seasoning packet. Drain noodles and set aside. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add 1 cup chopped chicken or beef; cook until no longer pink. Toss in 1 cup chopped cabbage or frozen mixed veggies; saute until crisp-tender. Add noodles to the skillet; sprinkle contents of seasoning packet on top. Add a splash of chicken broth if the mixture is too dry, and adjust seasoning to taste.

Ramen Frittata

Give ramen an early wake-up call by using the noodles in a breakfast frittata. Slices look great topped with fresh herbs. No one will believe this tasty dish costs less than $2 to make.

To make: Cook a package of chicken ramen as directed, reserve seasoning packet. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat 6 eggs and a splash of milk. Drain noodles; toss into egg mixture. Stir in contents of seasoning packet. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add noodle mixture; cook over medium-low heat until firm, about 7 minutes. Carefully flip frittata; cook 1 to 2 minutes longer or until cooked through.

Ramen Pizza

Combine two college staples by transforming that pack of ramen into a personal-size pizza.

To make: Separate uncooked ramen into 2 thin squares. Place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Pour a generous amount of marinara sauce over each square; sprinkle with cheese and pizza toppings of your choice. Bake at 350°F until cheese is melted and edges are golden brown.

Ramen Mac & Cheese

The ultimate comfort-food combo.

To make: Cook a package of chicken ramen noodles as directed. Drain and return noodles to the pan. Stir in contents of seasoning packet and 1 teaspoon flour. Add 1/4 cup milk; heat over medium heat until milk has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; stir until melted. Remove from heat; adjust seasonings to taste.

With so many ways to enjoy ramen, go ahead and grab a pack or 10! This budget-friendly staple makes more than just soup—those classic college noodles make all sorts of great meals, too.