Ramen Lasagna
Ramen Lasagna is one of those brilliant concoctions that perfectly marries two beloved dishes into one delightful masterpiece. Imagine layers of tender noodles, creamy ricotta, and rich pasta sauce all coming together in a way that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This innovative dish is not only a fun twist on a classic but also a quick and easy recipe that is bound to become a favorite in your household. With its unique use of instant ramen noodles as the base, this Ramen Lasagna is comfort food at its finest, ready to satisfy cravings any day of the week.
Why It’s My Go-To
Ramen Lasagna has quickly become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights and casual gatherings. It’s simple and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for those evenings when you just don’t have the energy to cook a traditional lasagna. Plus, the ingredients are often pantry staples, making it a convenient choice when you’re in a pinch. Not to mention, the combination of flavors—from the creamy ricotta to the gooey mozzarella—results in a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will love!
The Essentials
To create this delicious Ramen Lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 Instant Ramen Noodle Packet – broken in half through the middle, making 2 sheets of ramen noodles. Packet discarded.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – divided in half for each layer, adding creaminess.
- 1 cup pasta sauce – divided in half for each layer, for that rich tomato flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – divided in half for each layer, for a savory kick.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – divided in half for each layer, for melty goodness.
- Chopped fresh parsley – for garnish and a touch of freshness.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Oven – to bake the lasagna until bubbly and golden.
- Baking Dish – a medium-sized dish works perfectly for this recipe.
- Mixing Bowl – to combine the ricotta and other ingredients.
- Spatula – for spreading the layers evenly.
- Knife – to chop the parsley for garnish.
Step-by-Step: Ramen Lasagna
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your Ramen Lasagna bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Ramen Noodles
Take your instant ramen noodle packet and break it in half through the middle to create two sheets. Discard the seasoning packet; we won’t need it for this recipe.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the cheese and give your layers a little extra zing.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
In your baking dish, spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom. Then place one sheet of ramen noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the pasta sauce. Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan and half of the shredded mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Add the second sheet of ramen noodles and repeat the layering process. Spread the remaining ricotta mixture, followed by the remaining pasta sauce, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your Ramen Lasagna is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
Variations by Season
- Summer: Incorporate fresh vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a light summer twist.
- Fall: Add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the ricotta for a seasonal flavor.
- Winter: Mix in cooked ground turkey or beef for a heartier meal that warms you right up.
- Spring: Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano to brighten up the dish.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
When testing this recipe, we found that using a higher-quality pasta sauce enhances the overall flavor of the dish significantly. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese—adding a bit of goat cheese or fontina can elevate the taste even further. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a spicy kick.
Best Ways to Store
To store your Ramen Lasagna, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Questions People Ask
Can I make Ramen Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire lasagna, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What other sauces can I use besides pasta sauce?
You can experiment with different sauces such as Alfredo, pesto, or even a homemade tomato sauce. Each will give your Ramen Lasagna a unique flavor profile!
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! This Ramen Lasagna is inherently vegetarian as it relies on cheese and sauce for flavor. Just be sure to use vegetable-based pasta sauce if you want to keep it fully vegetarian.
Can I use other noodle types?
While the instant ramen noodles create a unique texture, you can certainly use other types of noodles like lasagna sheets or even egg noodles. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
The Takeaway
Ramen Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s a creative culinary adventure that allows you to enjoy the comfort of lasagna with an unexpected twist. Perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen, this dish combines the best of both worlds and is guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. With its quick preparation and delicious flavors, it’s an ideal recipe for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to make this fun and satisfying dish your own by adding your favorite ingredients and flavors. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a gathering of friends, Ramen Lasagna will surely be a hit!
Ramen Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Break the instant ramen noodle packet in half and discard the seasoning packet.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 4: Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce in your baking dish, place one sheet of ramen over it, and layer with half of the ricotta, pasta sauce, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
- Step 5: Repeat the layering with the second sheet of ramen and the remaining ingredients.
- Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Step 7: Let cool, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use high-quality pasta sauce for better flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses like goat or fontina.
- Add red pepper flakes to the ricotta for a spicy kick.
