Spicy Ramen Lasagna Fusion (Print Version)
Cheesy ramen layers meet spicy pork and tangy sauce in this inventive comfort food mashup.
# Components:
→ Noodles
01 - 4 packs instant ramen noodles, 3 oz each; seasoning packets discarded
→ Meat Sauce
02 - 1 lb ground pork, or substitute ground chicken or beef
03 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
04 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons grated ginger
07 - 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
08 - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, adjust to taste
09 - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
10 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
11 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon sugar
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheese Layer
14 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
15 - 1 large egg
16 - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
17 - 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated, divided
18 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for optional garnish
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F.
02 - Boil ramen noodles for 2 minutes less than package directions; drain and set aside.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
04 - Add ground pork and cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until evenly browned.
05 - Stir in gochujang, red pepper flakes, crushed tomatoes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
06 - Combine ricotta cheese, one egg, half the mozzarella, and half the parmesan in a bowl until smooth.
07 - Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
08 - Arrange a layer of cooked ramen noodles (using roughly one pack per layer, fit to cover). Spread a third of the cheese mixture on top, then a third of the meat sauce. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with remaining meat sauce.
09 - Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the surface.
10 - Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
11 - Remove foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
12 - Allow lasagna to stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Exciting fusion of Japanese ramen and Italian lasagna flavors
- Customizable spice level and protein options for all tastes
02 -
- This dish contains wheat, egg, dairy, and soy so check all ingredient labels for possible allergens.
- Prep and cook times add up to just 1 hour making this a quick weeknight fusion meal.
03 -
- Undercook ramen noodles for best texture after baking.
- Bake with foil first then uncover for a bubbly golden cheese top.