Lasagna is one of the ultimate comfort foods, with its layers of rich sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles. Meanwhile, ramen is known for being quick, affordable, and versatile. So why not combine them? Ramen lasagna is a game-changing fusion dish that replaces traditional lasagna noodles with instant ramen, offering a deliciously unique texture and bold flavors.
This viral recipe has become a social media sensation, with food lovers on TikTok and Instagram embracing its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a budget-friendly family dinner, or an unexpected twist on a classic dish, this ramen lasagna is a must-try!
If you’re a fan of creative lasagna variations, check out The Ultimate Guide to Lasagna Roll-Ups for another exciting way to enjoy this Italian favorite.
Why Try Ramen Lasagna?
1. It’s a Time-Saver
Traditional lasagna requires boiling pasta sheets, but ramen cooks in just minutes, making this a fast and easy alternative.
2. Budget-Friendly
A pack of ramen costs a fraction of the price of regular lasagna noodles, making this dish affordable without compromising on taste.
3. A Fun Twist on a Classic
This recipe retains the essence of lasagna—rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and savory flavors—while offering a playful take on layering and texture.
4. Highly Customizable
Want to make it spicy, vegetarian, or extra cheesy? There are endless ways to tweak this dish to suit your preferences.
For more ideas on how to enhance your lasagna, read What Can I Add to My Lasagna to Make It Taste Better?.
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients
- 4 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 3 cups of pasta sauce (marinara, bolognese, or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg (for binding the ricotta)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
Optional Ingredients for Customization
- Vegetarian version: Replace meat with mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or Sriracha
- Asian-inspired fusion: Mix in soy sauce, miso, or gochujang for a unique twist
For those interested in different takes on classic lasagna, check out Mexican Lasagna: A Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic.
How to Make Ramen Lasagna (Step-by-Step)
1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking.
2: Prepare the Ramen Noodles
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Drop in the ramen noodles and cook for only 2 minutes—they should be slightly undercooked.
- Drain and set aside.
3: Cook the Meat (If Using)
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat.
- Drain excess fat and mix in 1 cup of pasta sauce.
4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a bowl, mix together:
- Ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- Stir until smooth and set aside.
5: Assemble the Ramen Lasagna
- Layer 1: Spread 1 cup of pasta sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer 2: Add a layer of softened ramen noodles.
- Layer 3: Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly.
- Layer 4: Add a portion of the cooked meat (if using).
- Layer 5: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
- Finish with a final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
For the best layering tips, check out What Is the Correct Order to Layer Lasagna?.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Now that your ramen lasagna is fully assembled, it’s time to bake it to golden, cheesy perfection!
– Cover and Bake
- Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps trap steam, ensuring the noodles absorb the sauce properly and the cheese melts evenly.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25 minutes.
– Uncover and Brown the Cheese
- After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil.
- Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling. If you love an extra crispy top, you can:
- Switch the oven to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
– Let It Rest
- Resist the temptation to cut into it immediately!
- Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the layers to set properly, making it easier to cut into clean slices without falling apart.
How to Store and Reheat Ramen Lasagna
Refrigerating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap portions tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
For more storage tips, check out Can I Freeze Cooked Lasagna? The Complete Guide.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
Variations of Ramen Lasagna
One of the best things about ramen lasagna is its versatility. You can customize it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or even create unique flavor profiles inspired by different cuisines. Here are some fun variations to try:
1- Spicy Ramen Lasagna
For those who love a bit of heat, this version turns up the spice levels!
- Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
- Mix in Sriracha or hot sauce with the ricotta for a spicy kick.
- Use spicy Italian sausage or chorizo instead of ground beef.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy contrast.
2- Vegetarian Ramen Lasagna
A plant-based twist that’s packed with flavor!
- Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
- Add spinach or kale to the ricotta layer for extra nutrition.
- Use lentils or chickpeas for added protein.
- Swap out regular cheese for a vegan alternative to make it dairy-free.
3- Extra Cheesy Ramen Lasagna
If you’re a cheese lover, this version is for you!
- Use a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and cheddar for an ultra-gooey texture.
- Add a layer of creamy béchamel sauce between the noodles for extra richness.
- Mix in crumbled feta or blue cheese for a bold, tangy flavor twist.
- Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy cheese crust.
4- Asian-Inspired Ramen Lasagna
A fusion of Italian and Asian flavors!
- Mix soy sauce, miso paste, or hoisin sauce into the pasta sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
- Replace ricotta with tofu blended with sesame oil and garlic for a unique creamy texture.
- Add shredded bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, or bean sprouts for an Asian-style twist.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and a drizzle of chili oil for extra flavor.
5- Meat Lovers Ramen Lasagna
Perfect for those who want a hearty, protein-packed dish!
- Use a mix of ground beef, Italian sausage, and crispy bacon for an extra meaty bite.
- Layer in pepperoni or prosciutto between the noodles for a savory boost.
- Add grilled chicken or pulled pork for even more depth of flavor.
- Top with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a hint of BBQ-style smokiness.
6- Low-Carb or Keto Ramen Lasagna
A healthier, low-carb version without sacrificing flavor!
- Use low-carb or keto-friendly ramen (such as shirataki noodles or egg-based noodles).
- Replace pasta sauce with a creamy Alfredo or pesto sauce for lower sugar content.
- Swap out traditional ricotta for cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Add more veggies like zucchini noodles or cauliflower layers for extra texture.
7- Kid-Friendly Ramen Lasagna
A fun, cheesy, and easy-to-eat version that kids will love!
Let kids pick their own fun toppings like extra cheese, mini pepperoni, or crumbled crackers.
Use mild marinara sauce instead of spicy or tangy tomato sauce.
Mix in sweet corn or shredded carrots for a touch of natural sweetness.
Cut into bite-sized portions and serve with a side of ketchup or ranch dressing.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
– Overcooking the ramen → Stick to 2 minutes of boiling before assembling.
– Not layering properly → Always start with sauce and end with cheese for the best structure.
– Skipping resting time → Letting it sit for 5 minutes prevents it from falling apart.
Final Thoughts
Ramen lasagna is a fun, easy, and delicious twist on a classic dish that brings together the best of Italian and Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
For more creative ways to upgrade your lasagna, check out How to Make Boxed Lasagna Better.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this amazing ramen lasagna! 🍜🧀