Looking for a quick, comforting meal with bold flavors? This easy spicy garlic ramen is the answer. Perfect for chilly nights or when you crave something warm and satisfying, this dish brings together garlicky goodness, a touch of heat, and a deliciously savory broth. Made with pantry staples and ready in under 15 minutes, it’s the perfect no-fuss meal.
What Is Spicy Garlic Ramen?
Spicy garlic ramen is a flavorful twist on traditional instant noodles. By swapping out the seasoning packets for fresh ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and chili garlic sauce, you elevate a simple dish into a restaurant-quality meal. It’s spicy, aromatic, and packed with umami, making it a go-to recipe for ramen lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Comforting: The rich, garlicky broth and chewy noodles are irresistible.
- Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients for a gourmet meal on a dime.
Ingredients
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp ginger powder
- Optional toppings: soft-boiled egg, green onions, sesame seeds, or sriracha

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Broth
- Heat sesame oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Building the Flavor
- Pour in water or chicken broth. Stir in soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, sugar, and ginger powder.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking the Noodles
- Add the ramen noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Bowls
- Divide the cooked noodles and broth evenly into serving bowls.
- Top with optional garnishes like a soft-boiled egg, green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions
Serve this spicy garlic ramen on its own or pair it with steamed dumplings or a side salad for a more complete meal. It’s also excellent with a cold drink to balance the heat—try iced tea or a light lager.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the broth and noodles separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, combine the broth and noodles in a pot and heat gently on the stove.
Freezing Instructions
The broth can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before adding freshly cooked noodles.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian option: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use plant-based toppings like tofu or sautéed mushrooms.
- Extra spicy: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or an extra dollop of chili garlic sauce.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Creamy version: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or coconut milk for a creamy, nutty twist.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute instant ramen with udon, soba, or rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What’s the best way to make a soft-boiled egg?
Boil an egg for 6-7 minutes, then immediately transfer it to an ice bath. Peel carefully and slice in half before adding to your ramen.
How can I reduce the spice level?
Use less chili garlic sauce or replace it with a milder sauce like hoisin or sweet chili sauce.
This easy spicy garlic ramen is the ultimate comfort food, combining bold flavors with effortless preparation. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or need a quick dinner, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and let us know how you made it your own!
Print
Easy Spicy Garlic Ramen Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
Description
Transform ordinary instant ramen into a creamy, flavorful dish with this easy peanut butter ramen recipe. Perfect for a quick meal, it combines savory, sweet, and nutty flavors, topped with your favorite garnishes for a customizable dish.
Ingredients
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp ginger powder
- Optional toppings: soft-boiled egg, green onions, sesame seeds, or sriracha
Instructions
Preparing the Broth
- Heat sesame oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Building the Flavor
- Pour in water or chicken broth. Stir in soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, sugar, and ginger powder.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking the Noodles
- Add the ramen noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Bowls
- Divide the cooked noodles and broth evenly into serving bowls.
- Top with optional garnishes like a soft-boiled egg, green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.
Notes
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more hot water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Make it Spicy: Add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili oil for a spicy kick.
- Alternative Noodles: Substitute rice noodles, soba noodles, or spaghetti if you don’t have ramen on hand.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 120 per serving