Pin It My college roommate showed me this trick at 2 AM during finals week. Something about the way the butter melted into the broth made those cheap noodles feel like actual food.
I started making these for Sunday night supper when cooking felt like too much effort. Now it is the meal I crave when life gets overwhelming and I need comfort fast.
Ingredients
- 1 package instant ramen noodles: Any flavor works but the chicken or vegetable bases let the other ingredients shine through
- 2 cups water: Less than typical because we want a concentrated broth not a watery soup
- Ramen seasoning packet: Use about three quarters to start then add more to taste since the butter amplifies saltiness
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: This is the secret ingredient that makes the broth feel velvety and luxurious
- 1 large egg: Room temperature eggs create the prettiest presentation but straight from the fridge works too
- 1 scallion: Both white and green parts add different kinds of sharpness and brightness
Instructions
- Bring the water to a gentle boil:
- You want steady bubbles but not a rolling boil that will make the broth cloudy
- Cook the noodles:
- Follow the package timing but stir occasionally so they do not stick together
- Create space for the egg:
- Use your spoon to make a little well in the center of the noodles before cracking the egg
- Let the egg poach:
- Leave the lid on and resist peeking so the steam can cook the white while keeping the yolk soft
- Finish with butter and scallions:
- String the butter through the broth until it disappears then scatter the scallions on top
Pin It This bowl saved me during my first year of teaching when coming home meant total exhaustion. Eventually it became a weekend ritual with a good book instead of a survival tactic.
Make It Your Own
Spinach wilts beautifully right at the end and frozen corn needs just thirty seconds in the hot broth. Mushrooms should go in with the noodles so they have time to soften and release their flavor.
Protein Boosts
F leftover roast chicken or store bought rotisserie chicken makes this feel like a complete meal. Crispy tofu cubes or seared edamame add protein without changing the comfort factor.
Spice It Up
Keep a jar of chili oil on the counter for instant heat. A spoonful of miso paste dissolved in the hot broth adds depth and umami.
- Sriracha drizzled on top creates a beautiful swirling effect
- A dash of rice vinegar cuts through the richness
- Toasted sesame oil should be the final flourish
Pin It Some of the best meals are the ones that remind us simple food prepared with care can feed something deeper than hunger.
Questions & Answers
- → How do you cook the egg to keep it silky?
Crack the egg into simmering broth without stirring, cover the pan, and let it cook for 1–2 minutes until the white is set but the yolk remains soft.
- → Can I add vegetables to enhance the dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, corn, or mushrooms can boost nutrition and flavor without altering the quick cooking time.
- → What role does butter play in this dish?
Butter adds creamy richness and deepens the broth’s flavor, creating a smooth, comforting mouthfeel.
- → Is it possible to use any instant noodle brand?
This method works well with any brand, allowing for flexible flavor combinations using your preferred seasoning packets.
- → How can I adjust spice levels?
Add chili flakes or a splash of chili oil to add heat according to your taste preferences.