Dinner

Instant Ramen Stir Fry Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery February 23, 2026February 23, 2026

Introduction

This Instant Ramen Stir Fry transforms simple instant noodles into a flavorful, quick meal perfect for busy days. With a buttery garlic sauce and a silky egg finish, it’s both comforting and exciting to eat.

A large white bowl filled with four main layers: at the bottom, light yellow curly ramen noodles soaked in a rich, dark orange broth; on the left side, several dark brown, grilled mushroom slices resting on the noodles; on the right side, two halves of a soft-boiled egg with shiny, bright orange yolks and white edges; the top center is covered with chopped fresh green onions sprinkled with tiny red chili flakes and white sesame seeds, adding texture and color contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with wooden chopsticks and a gray cloth napkin placed near it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pack Instant Ramen
1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter
2 cloves Garlic, finely minced
¼ teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
¼ cup reserved pasta water
1 Egg, lightly beaten
To taste Toasted sesame seeds (Optional)
To taste Green Onions, thinly sliced (Optional)
To taste Dash of lime (Optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the ramen noodles for 2–3 minutes without the seasoning packet. Drain the noodles, reserving about ¼ cup of the starchy cooking water for later.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes, stirring until the garlic softens and becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Stir in the soy sauce and brown sugar. Let the mixture bubble and thicken slightly to a syrupy consistency.
Step 4: Add the noodles to the skillet and toss them in the sauce with tongs, coating every strand. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Push the noodles to one side of the skillet. Pour in the beaten egg and stir quickly to cook it into a silky, creamy coating on the noodles.
Step 6: Turn off the heat, add a squeeze of lime if using, and toss everything together. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu when adding the noodles.
Adjust the heat by adding more or less red chili flakes to suit your taste.
Use peanut butter or sesame oil for a nutty twist in the sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. The egg coating may slightly thicken upon chilling but will soften when warmed.