Kamil Perry
Instant noodles are a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal. Adding cheese to your instant noodles is a great way to elevate your meal with minimal effort. This combination is a popular Korean comfort food and is also enjoyed in Japan. You can use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey jack or even cream cheese, to create a creamy and indulgent dish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 5-10 minutes |
| Cook time | 2 minutes |
| Servings | 1-2 |
| Ingredients | Water, instant noodles, butter, milk, shredded cheese, garlic powder, ramen flavor packet, green onions, egg, protein of choice, vegetables |
| Nutrition information | Calories: 169-530kcal, Carbohydrates: 14-22g, Protein: 5-15g, Fat: 8-20g, Saturated Fat: 4-11g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3-1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2-4g, Trans Fat: 0.03-0.1g, Cholesterol: 11-63mg, Sodium: 240-327mg, Potassium: 64-420mg, Fiber: 0.2-0.3g, Sugar: 0.5-12g, Vitamin A: 119-764IU, Vitamin C: 0.1-0.4mg, Calcium: 81-513mg, Iron: 0.2mg |
| Storage | Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months |
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What You'll Learn
How to cook instant noodles with cheese in 5 minutes
This guide will teach you how to cook instant noodles with cheese in just 5 minutes. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that both adults and kids will enjoy. It only requires a few simple ingredients and is a delicious Korean-inspired one-pot meal.
First, heat some water in a pan or pot and bring it to a boil. You can use any type of instant noodles for this recipe, so use your favourite! Once the water is boiling, add the noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. Be sure not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. Drain the water and set the noodles aside.
In the same pot, melt some butter over low heat. You can also add a tablespoon of milk to make the sauce creamier. Then, add shredded cheese and stir until it is melted and smooth. You can use any type of cheese you like, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or American cheese. Freshly shredded cheese will melt better than pre-shredded cheese. Next, add in garlic powder and black pepper, and stir to combine.
Finally, add the cooked noodles to the pot and gently fold them into the cheesy sauce until they are evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of the pasta water. Serve the noodles hot and garnish with chopped scallions or green onions, and even some sesame seeds if you like. Enjoy!
You can also spice up your cheesy noodles by adding some red chilli flakes, chilli powder, or hot sauce. For a non-vegetarian option, add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the noodles. Enjoy your cheesy instant noodles!
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The best cheeses to use for instant noodles
When it comes to adding cheese to instant noodles, there are several varieties that can elevate this simple dish. The best cheese for instant noodles will melt well and complement the other ingredients and flavours. Here are some ideal cheeses to use:
American Cheese
American cheese, such as Kraft Singles, is a popular choice for adding to instant noodles. Its creamy texture and mild flavour make it an excellent option for creating a smooth and creamy sauce. American cheese melts easily and blends well with the noodles, broth, and other ingredients. It is a versatile choice that can be torn or sliced and added directly to the noodles.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is another excellent option for instant noodles. It has a sharper flavour than American cheese and melts exceptionally well. Cheddar can be shredded or sliced and added to the noodles. It pairs particularly well with beef-flavoured instant noodles and creates a hearty and satisfying dish.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese is a mild and stretchy cheese that can be used in instant noodles. It melts smoothly and adds a creamy texture to the dish. Mozzarella is perfect for noodles with a brothy or soupy consistency as it blends seamlessly into the broth.
Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack Cheese
For those who enjoy a little kick of spice, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese are great choices. These cheeses melt beautifully and add a subtle spiciness to the noodles. They can enhance the overall flavour of the dish without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is another option for those seeking a creamy texture in their instant noodles. It blends well with the broth and adds a rich and indulgent mouthfeel to the dish. Cream cheese is perfect for creating a smooth and velvety sauce that coats the noodles.
When choosing the best cheese for instant noodles, consider the overall flavour profile and texture you desire. Freshly shredded or grated cheese is recommended as it melts more easily and creates a smoother sauce. Experiment with different cheeses and combinations to find your preferred taste sensation!
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How to avoid overcooking instant noodles
Instant noodles are notorious for being quick and easy to make, but that doesn't mean they're foolproof. Overcooking is the most common mistake when preparing instant noodles, so here are some tips to avoid it.
First, use a kettle or pot to bring a rolling boil to a sufficient amount of water—just enough to cover the noodles while they're submerged in the pot. This is important because it ensures the noodles cook quickly and evenly, preventing them from becoming mushy. Once the water is boiling, add the noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, which usually recommend cooking for 2 to 5 minutes. However, don't just rely on the timer. Start checking the noodles for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time, as you want them to be tender with a slight chewiness. Remember, it's better to undercook than to overcook because noodles continue to cook slightly even after being removed from the heat.
To elevate your instant noodles even further, consider cooking them like spaghetti, leaving them a little al dente. This doesn't mean pulling them off the stove much earlier than the instructions dictate. Instead, follow Chef Roy Choi's "Perfect Instant Ramen" recipe: cook the noodles for two minutes, then add in the seasoning packet and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Alternatively, take a page out of executive chef and founder of Ramen by Uzu, Hiro Mitsui's book, and simply stop cooking the noodles as soon as they reach your desired consistency.
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How to adapt instant noodles with cheese for vegetarians
Cheesy instant noodles are a quick, easy, and versatile meal that can be adapted for vegetarians. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this dish:
Ingredients:
- Instant noodles of your choice (any variety of dried or fresh instant noodles will work)
- Water
- Butter
- Milk
- Cheese (cheddar, Monterey jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, or any variety of your choice)
- Garlic powder
- Green onions or scallions (optional)
- Vegetables of your choice (broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, peppers, peas, asparagus, zucchini, tofu)
Instructions:
- Start by boiling water in a saucepan or pot. You can follow the package instructions for the amount of water and cooking time.
- Add the instant noodles to the boiling water. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually until they are al dente or tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain the water and set the noodles aside. Keep about a cup of pasta water to the side, as this will help blend the cheesy sauce into the noodles later.
- In the same pot, melt some butter over low heat. You can adjust the amount of butter to your preference, but typically, about a tablespoon or two is sufficient.
- Add milk to the melted butter. You can use regular milk or opt for a lower-fat option if you prefer.
- Now, it's time to add the cheese! Shredded or grated cheese works best, as it melts more easily. You can use cheddar, Monterey jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, or any variety that you like.
- Add garlic powder to the mixture for flavour and aroma. You can also add other spices like red chili flakes, red chili paste, cayenne pepper, paprika powder, or black pepper if you want some extra heat.
- Continuously stir the mixture over low heat until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked noodles back to the pot and gently fold them into the cheesy sauce, ensuring even coverage. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with the reserved pasta water.
- Finally, serve the noodles warm. You can garnish with chopped green onions or scallions for some added freshness.
Vegetarian Adaptations:
To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit any meat or seafood ingredients that are sometimes added to cheesy instant noodles. Instead, load up on vegetables and plant-based proteins:
- Blanched, roasted, or stir-fried veggies: Broccoli, asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, peppers, peas, zucchini, etc.
- Plant-based proteins: Tofu, boiled eggs, or scrambled eggs.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, spices, and vegetables to create your own unique vegetarian version of this comforting and versatile dish. Enjoy!
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How to store leftover instant noodles with cheese
Instant noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for a short period, but not indefinitely. Here are some detailed steps to ensure your leftover instant noodles with cheese stay fresh and safe to eat:
Use Airtight Containers
Transfer your leftover instant noodles with cheese to an airtight container. This prevents funky smells and keeps moisture, germs, and bacteria at bay, ensuring your noodles maintain their texture and flavour.
Maintain Optimal Temperature
Keep your refrigerator temperature at 40°F (4°C) or lower. This slows down bacteria growth, preserving the quality and safety of your leftover noodles.
Label and Monitor
Label your container with the date of storage. This helps you keep track of how long the leftovers have been in the fridge, ensuring you consume them within a safe timeframe. Regularly check the noodles for any signs of spoilage, such as a weird smell, texture change (slimy or rock-hard noodles), or mould.
Reheat and Enjoy
When you're ready to enjoy your leftover instant noodles with cheese, there are a few reheating options. You can sauté them lightly in butter or olive oil until heated through, adding a little extra cheese on top. Alternatively, you can put the desired portion of noodles in a heat-proof bowl, pour over boiling water, drain immediately, and then add your sauce or seasonings.
Creative Leftover Ideas
If you're looking for creative ways to use your leftover instant noodles with cheese, consider the following ideas:
- Bake them into a casserole with leftover sauce, cheese, and any cooked vegetables or meat.
- Toss them with olive oil and a fresh vinaigrette, adding tasty ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, smoked cheese, and herbs.
- Add them to a soup, like a hearty chicken noodle soup or a comforting pasta and bean soup.
- For a crunchy texture, try frying them up, St. Louis-style, like fried ravioli, with an egg wash and breadcrumb coating.
Remember, proper food storage not only keeps your leftovers fresh but also helps prevent foodborne illnesses and retains nutrients, keeping your meals tasty and nutritious!
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Frequently asked questions
To cook instant noodles with cheese, first, boil water in a pan. Next, add the noodles and cook until al dente or tender. Drain the water, and add butter, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Finally, add grated cheese and stir until creamy.
This depends on your preference. You can add as much or as little cheese as you like. However, it is recommended to start with a small amount and add more to taste.
You can use any type of cheese that melts well. Popular options include cheddar, Monterey jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, and American cheese.
Yes, you can add various ingredients to customize your dish. Some options include vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, and tofu, or proteins such as grilled chicken, prawns, sausage, or bacon. You can also add spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, or paprika powder to give it some extra heat.
Preparing instant noodles with cheese is a quick and easy process. It typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes to cook the noodles and create a delicious, cheesy dish.
