Save to Pinterest A creamy, savory noodle dish that fuses classic Italian carbonara with quick-cook ramen, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot.
I first tried this Instant Pot Carbonara Ramen hack on a busy weeknight when I was craving something cozy. It surprised me how perfectly the ramen noodles absorbed the creamy sauce and bacon flavor without extra fuss.
Ingredients
- Noodles: 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- Meats: 4 strips bacon, chopped
- Dairy: 2 large eggs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids: 2 cups water
- Seasonings: ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground, Salt, to taste
- Garnishes (optional): Extra grated Parmesan, Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Bacon:
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp, about 3–4 minutes. Remove a tablespoon of bacon for garnish, if desired; leave the rest and bacon fat in the pot.
- Add Garlic:
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Noodles:
- Add ramen noodles (broken in half if needed) and 2 cups water. Stir to submerge noodles.
- Pressure Cook:
- Seal the Instant Pot lid. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Quick release the pressure when done.
- Make Sauce:
- While noodles cook, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and black pepper in a bowl.
- Combine Sauce and Noodles:
- Open the Instant Pot. Working quickly, add the egg-Parmesan mixture to the hot noodles, stirring vigorously to create a creamy sauce (the heat will cook the eggs without scrambling them). Add salt to taste.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with reserved bacon, more Parmesan, and parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest This noodle dish has quickly become a favorite in our family for chilly days when comfort food is a must. Even picky eaters go for seconds!
Required Tools
You'll need an Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker, whisk, mixing bowl, and tongs or chopsticks for serving.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, milk (Parmesan, cream), and wheat (ramen noodles). Bacon may include other allergens; always check the ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 540 calories, 28 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 23 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This Instant Pot Carbonara Ramen hack is the ultimate comfort meal mashup. It comes together easily and guarantees creamy, cheesy satisfaction every time.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, thicker or fresh pasta can be used but adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
- → How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?
Work quickly when stirring the egg and cheese mixture into the hot noodles off heat to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- → Is bacon necessary for flavor?
Bacon adds a smoky richness, but pancetta or mushrooms can be substituted for different flavor profiles.
- → Can I omit the heavy cream?
Yes, the cream is optional and added for extra smoothness; the dish remains creamy from eggs and cheese alone.
- → What garnishes work best with this dish?
Fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan add bright and savory finishing touches.