Ramen Noodle Burger Recipe – Affordable Food Ideas

A ramen noodle burger is already a bold and flavorful experience, so the right pairings can enhance its unique texture and taste. A crunchy Asian slaw with fresh veggies provides a crisp contrast, while spicy kimchi adds a punch of heat and tang. 

For drinks, a cold, crisp beer or sweet tea balances the rich flavors, while a light sake or iced green tea brings a refreshing touch. Dipping sauces like soy sauce, spicy mayo, or a teriyaki drizzle add even more depth. With these perfect pairings, your ramen noodle burger meal is bound to be unforgettable!

What is a Ramen Noodle Burger?

A ramen noodle burger combines elements from Asian and American cuisine into one delightful dish. Instead of the traditional burger bun, the sandwich features fried ramen noodle patties. They serve as a perfect base for any toppings and condiments that you’d typically find on a burger.

The first ramen burger hit the scene in 2013, thanks to Keizo Shimamoto, a chef who dazzled food lovers in New York City with his innovative approach. 

The ramen noodle burger has since inspired many to experiment in their kitchens, and now you can create this culinary masterpiece right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Ramen Noodle Burger

Let me share a personal story. I was hosting a casual gathering at my place, and I wanted to serve something unique yet approachable. I stumbled upon the ramen noodle burger recipe, and my inner chef took charge.

It took minimal effort, but the compliments I received were more than I had anticipated. Friends marveled at how delicious this quirky burger was.

1. Unique Flavor: This burger has an extraordinary combination of textures and tastes. The crispy ramen gets golden brown while the burger patty stays juicy. Together, they create a party for your taste buds.
2. Customizable: Not a fan of beef? Swap it out for turkey or a vegetarian patty. You can adjust toppings based on personal tastes. Sautéed onions? Check. Spicy mayo? Absolutely.
3. Conversation Starter: Serving this burger at a gathering sparks dialogue. Guests will ask, “What’s this?” and you'll get to share the fun behind it.
4. Bites of Nostalgia: If you grew up eating ramen noodles, you’ll find nostalgia in this unconventional take. It brings back memories, all while satisfying the modern culinary curiosity.
5. Easy to Make: The ramen noodle burger may sound complex, but it requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You can easily whip these up, even on a busy weeknight.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Ramen Noodle Burger

Let’s gather your supplies. Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need:

• 8 ounces of freshly ground beef, shaped into two 4-ounce burger patties
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 packet of instant ramen noodles
• A pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 slices of your choice of sharp Cheddar or Gruyère cheese
• 1 small clove of garlic, minced
• Optional toppings:
• sautéed onions, 
• fresh herbs (like basil or thyme)
• a dollop of spicy mayonnaise

Directions

Time to transform those ingredients into a mouth-watering ramen noodle burger. Follow these detailed steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Ramen Noodles

Start by boiling water in a pot. Once it's bubbling, add your ramen noodles and cook according to package directions for about 3-4 minutes. You want them al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Ramen Noodle Buns

In a large bowl, combine the drained ramen with a pinch of sea salt and your minced garlic. Mix well.

• Tip: You can add a little more seasoning if you want your buns flavorful.

Now, divide the ramen mix into two equal portions. Shape each portion into buns, pressing firmly to hold them together.

Step 3: Cook the Burger Patties

In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season both sides of your burger patties with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese and cover the pan to allow it to melt.

Step 4: Fry the Ramen Buns

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Place the ramen buns in the skillet and fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

Now, it’s time to build your creation. Place one ramen bun on a plate. Add the cheesy patty, and pile on your favorite toppings. Top with the second ramen bun. Voila! You have your ramen noodle burger.

Notes

Here are five essential tips that I discovered while making my ramen noodle burger:

• Handling the Ramen: Be careful when shaping the noodle buns. They can be delicate, so use a firm hand when pressing.
• Chill the Noodles: If you're having trouble shaping the noodle buns, let them chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This helps to firm them up.
• Look for Starch: You can use leftover cooked ramen, but make sure it’s a bit sticky. The starch helps bind the noodles together.
• Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on your oil temperature. Too high and you'll burn the ramen; too low and they won't crisp up adequately.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. Try pickled vegetables, sriracha, or avocado slices for something different.

Storage Tips

Want to make these in advance? Here’s how to store them:

• Uncooked: You can prepare the ramen noodles and shape the patties a day ahead. Store them in the fridge in airtight containers.
• Cooked: If you have leftovers, store fully assembled burgers in the fridge for up to two days. Just keep the ramen buns separate to avoid sogginess.
• Freezing: Freeze the uncooked ramen buns separately from the patties. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Here are five suggestions to make your ramen noodle burger stand out:

• Serve with Garlic Fries: Nothing beats that combination. Crunchy fries with garlic keep the Asian vibe while satisfying cravings.
• Pair with Kimchi Slaw: A fresh crunch complements the richness of the burger and adds a tangy kick.
• Try a Side of Edamame: Light and healthy, steamed edamame with sea salt offers a nutritious counterbalance.
• Savor with Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can enhance the experience with a cozy touch.
• Finish with Matcha Ice Cream: For dessert, rich and creamy matcha ice cream makes for a fantastic end to this noodle adventure.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Ramen Noodle Burger?

If you’re wondering about alternatives, here are five ideas:

• Ground Chicken or Turkey: A lean option that keeps it light without sacrificing flavor. Season well to keep it moist.
• Black Bean Burger: For a vegetarian twist, black bean patties can pack in protein and flavor. They’re excellent if you modify the seasoning.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, mold cauliflower rice into patties. Just ensure they’re seasoned and held together well.
• Zucchini Noodles: Replace ramen with spiralized zucchini. Press them into patty shapes. This adds a unique twist and keeps it fresh.
• Shiitake Mushroom Caps: Use large shiitake mushrooms as the burger. It delivers umami flavor and a great texture when cooked properly.

Conclusion

In my culinary journey, few dishes have been as fun to create and share as the ramen noodle burger. This symphony of flavors and textures has a way of bringing people together, whether it's an adventurous meal at home or a conversation starter at a gathering.

So why not give it a shot? Take those humble noodle packets and ground beef, and turn them into something amazing. 

This burger represents not just a meal but an adventure in cooking. Enjoy every bite of your creation, and watch as your friends and family dive in with delight. Bon appétit!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Ramen Noodles With Egg Copycat Recipe
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