Save A quick and creamy fusion of Italian carbonara and Japanese ramen, made effortlessly in the Instant Pot for a comforting meal in just 15 minutes.
This recipe quickly became a favorite for busy weeknights when I want comfort food without the wait.
Ingredients
- Noodles: 2 packs instant ramen noodles (no seasoning packets)
- Meats: 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- Dairy & Eggs: 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Aromatics & Seasonings: 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, Salt, to taste
- Garnish (optional): Chopped parsley, Extra grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon bacon fat in the pot.
- Step 2:
- Add minced garlic to the bacon fat and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Break ramen noodles in half and add to the pot. Pour in 2 cups of water. Gently press noodles down to submerge.
- Step 4:
- Secure the lid. Cook on Manual or Pressure Cook setting for 1 minute. Quick-release the pressure.
- Step 5:
- While noodles cook, whisk together eggs, Parmesan, heavy cream, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Step 6:
- When pressure is released, open lid. Immediately pour egg mixture over hot noodles, stirring vigorously to create a creamy sauce (residual heat will cook the eggs without scrambling).
- Step 7:
- Stir in cooked bacon. Taste and season with salt as needed.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save This ramen hack has brought my family together around the dinner table on hectic nights.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use sautéed mushrooms. Substitute pancetta for bacon for a more traditional flavor. Use Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste. Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker, Tongs or chopsticks, Mixing bowl, Whisk
Allergen Information
Contains: Egg, Milk (dairy), Wheat (ramen noodles), Pork (bacon). Check ramen packaging for soy and other allergen information.
Save Enjoy this creamy and comforting Instant Pot Carbonara Ramen any night you crave a quick fusion meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent eggs from scrambling when adding to hot noodles?
Pour the egg mixture slowly into the hot noodles while stirring continuously to allow gentle cooking from residual heat, creating a creamy sauce without scrambling.
- → Can I substitute bacon with another meat?
Yes, pancetta works well for a traditional taste, or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- → What type of cheese is best for this dish?
Grated Parmesan cheese is recommended, but Pecorino Romano offers a sharper flavor alternative.
- → Is it necessary to quick-release the pressure after cooking noodles?
Yes, quick-releasing pressure stops cooking immediately, preventing overcooked noodles.
- → How can I enhance the flavor of the broth?
Retain some bacon fat when cooking bacon and sauté garlic in it to infuse a richer aroma into the broth.