Once just a budget-friendly college staple, ramen has been completely reinvented—thanks to TikTok. What used to be a late-night go-to now stars as a viral sensation, with creators transforming humble instant noodles into crave-worthy comfort food that’s fast, fun, and endlessly addictive.
Armed with pantry basics like soy sauce, garlic, butter, and eggs, TikTok users are turning ramen into a customizable canvas of flavor. The result? A dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. From spicy to creamy, cheesy to sweet-savory, there’s a viral ramen variation for every craving.
In this article, we’ll explore how the TikTok ramen recipe exploded into a global trend, what ingredients you’ll need to get started, how to make the original version, and the most popular hacks and creative spins. Plus, we’ll answer your most frequently asked noodle questions along the way.
Why Did the TikTok Ramen Recipe Go Viral?
The Origin Story Behind the Trend
It all started with a simple, late-night kitchen experiment: skip the seasoning packet, sauté the cooked noodles in butter and garlic, then stir in soy sauce, sugar, and maybe an egg. The result? A glossy, umami-packed bowl of noodles that felt more like takeout than a $1 snack.
Early creators like @saucemunchie and @chez.jorge showcased their buttery ramen bowls, and the internet quickly took notice. The #TikTokRamenRecipe hashtag exploded, racking up millions of views in weeks. Even celebrities like Kylie Jenner got in on the trend, sharing her egg-and-butter take that sent it even further into the viral stratosphere.
This wasn’t just about ramen anymore—it was about reimagining it. TikTok had given instant noodles a glow-up.
How TikTok Turned Instant Noodles into Gourmet Comfort Food
One of the biggest reasons this recipe blew up? Total customization. TikTok didn’t just share a dish—it gave people creative freedom. Suddenly, ramen was more than a microwave meal. It was a base for experimentation, fusion, and fun.
Home cooks and snack lovers started riffing on the original:
- Adding cheese for extra creaminess
- Stirring in Sriracha for heat
- Swirling in egg for richness
- Tossing in scallions, sesame oil, or crispy garlic for depth
From Gen Z foodies to culinary pros, everyone was remixing the recipe. TikTok made it cool to cook, made ramen stylish again, and gave people permission to mix cultures, flavors, and cravings into one steamy, slurpable bowl.
Whether you’re new to the trend or just looking for the next creative twist, the TikTok ramen recipe proves that sometimes, the best meals are the ones you make your own.
What You Need for TikTok Ramen
Basic Ingredients for the Classic Version
The beauty of the TikTok ramen recipe is that it uses stuff you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s affordable, quick to make, and incredibly satisfying. Most versions start with a few core ingredients that create a savory, buttery, slightly sweet flavor that clings perfectly to the noodles.
Here’s what you’ll need for the original viral tiktok ramen recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Instant ramen noodles | 1 pack | Base, cooked and drained |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | Adds richness and fat |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Bold, aromatic flavor |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | Umami and saltiness |
| Brown sugar | 1 tsp | Slight sweetness for balance |
| Egg (optional) | 1 | Creamy texture and protein |
| Red pepper flakes | Pinch | Adds heat (optional) |
| Everything bagel seasoning | 1 tsp | TikTok twist, adds crunch |
This combo creates that signature glossy noodle look while layering complex flavor into every bite. The TikTok ramen recipe is all about balance—fat, salt, sweet, and spice working together.
Don’t toss the seasoning packet. Save it for soup or another dish—it’s not used in the TikTok version.
Common Flavor Boosters and Add-Ins
TikTok wouldn’t be TikTok without customizations, and the viral ramen trend is no different. Once you’ve mastered the basic TikTok ramen recipe, it’s time to play.
Here are a few trending flavor boosters:
- Sesame oil – for a nutty aroma
- Sriracha or chili oil – heat + umami
- Scallions – fresh bite and color
- Furikake – Japanese seasoning that includes seaweed and sesame
- Miso paste – deep savory richness
Want extra protein? Add a soft-boiled egg, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even crispy tofu. Craving a creamy finish? Melt a slice of American cheese or stir in a spoonful of cream cheese.
The TikTok ramen recipe isn’t just a trend—it’s a blank canvas for your cravings.
Kylie Jenner’s Ramen vs. TikTok Ramen
Kylie’s Simple Egg + Butter Ramen Hack
Before TikTok ramen became a full-blown trend, Kylie Jenner gave it an unexpected boost with her own viral ramen twist. Back in 2016, Kylie shared her go-to noodle hack on Snapchat—and fans still talk about it today.
Her version? Simple but effective:
- 1 pack of instant noodles
- 1 egg
- A pat of butter
- A dash of garlic powder
This combination adds richness, silkiness, and flavor without being complicated. It’s basically a comfort bowl—familiar, creamy, and satisfying. For many fans, it was their first intro to the idea that ramen could be “pimped out” beyond just hot water and seasoning packets.
Kylie’s ramen was early proof that just a few pantry upgrades could totally transform instant noodles.
How TikTok Upgraded the Ramen Game
While Kylie’s ramen is the OG celebrity noodle hack, the TikTok ramen recipe takes things further with deeper flavor and more texture.
Instead of just adding ingredients to boiling noodles, TikTokers sauté butter and garlic in a pan, then stir in soy sauce, sugar, chili flakes, and cooked noodles for a glossy, stir-fried finish. The optional egg is either scrambled into the pan or added poached for creaminess.
Let’s break it down:
| Feature | Kylie’s Ramen | TikTok Ramen Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | Yes | Yes |
| Garlic | Powder | Fresh minced |
| Egg | Boiled/simmered | Scrambled, poached, or mixed |
| Sugar | No | Yes – adds sweet umami |
| Soy sauce | No | Yes – boosts depth and salt |
| Cooking Method | All in one pot | Sauce cooked separately |
| Flavor Complexity | Mild, creamy | Sweet-savory, layered |
In short, Kylie’s ramen is comfort food, but the tiktok ramen recipe is next-level flavor. It’s no longer just about making ramen better—it’s about reinventing it altogether.
TikTok ramen builds on the foundation Kylie made famous and adds texture, depth, and creativity that takes it viral.
Step-by-Step TikTok Ramen Recipe
The viral TikTok ramen recipe might look gourmet, but it’s incredibly easy to make. All you need is 10 minutes, a skillet, and a few simple pantry staples to turn boring noodles into a bold, buttery bowl of flavor.
How to Make the TikTok Ramen Sauce
The signature sauce is what makes the tiktok ramen recipe so addictive. It’s salty, sweet, garlicky, and rich—clinging perfectly to every noodle strand.
Ingredients for Sauce (1 serving):
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
Bonus: Add a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a flavor twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook your noodles.
Boil 1 pack of instant noodles according to the package—but skip the seasoning packet. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the sauce.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add soy sauce and sugar.
Stir in the soy sauce and brown sugar. Mix well until slightly thickened (about 1 minute).
4. Toss in the noodles.
Add the drained noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.
5. Crack in the egg (optional).
Push the noodles to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the empty space and scramble. Once it starts to set, mix it into the noodles.
6. Finish and serve.
Top with sesame seeds, green onions, or a drizzle of chili oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Quick Cooking Tips
- For creamier texture: Add a teaspoon of mayo or a slice of cheese at the end.
- Want it spicier? Stir in Sriracha or gochujang while the sauce simmers.
- Gluten-free? Use rice noodles or soba and tamari instead of soy sauce.
The final dish is chewy, glossy, and rich—the exact texture and taste that made the tiktok ramen recipe famous.
TikTok Ramen Recipe: Viral Flavor Hacks You’ll Want to Try Today
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful ramen hack made famous on TikTok, this recipe combines soy, garlic, butter, and sugar for a glossy, savory noodle bowl you’ll crave. Customize it with egg, spice, or cheese—ready in under 10 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 pack instant ramen noodles (no seasoning packet)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 egg (optional)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds or green onions (optional topping)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles in boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in soy sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Cook until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss until fully coated in sauce.
- Crack in the egg (optional) and scramble into the noodles for 1 minute.
- Top and serve with sesame seeds or green onions.
Notes
- Add cheese or mayo for a creamier finish.
- Use gluten-free noodles and tamari for a GF version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in a pan.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Quick Meals
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: tiktok ramen, tiktok ramen recipe, instant noodles hack, viral ramen, quick ramen meal
Customizing Your TikTok Ramen
One of the reasons the TikTok ramen recipe exploded is because it’s infinitely customizable. Whether you want it spicy, cheesy, vegan, or protein-packed, there’s a version for you. Think of the original as your base—and these add-ons as the fun.
Spicy, Cheesy, and Creamy Variations
If you’re into bold flavors or crave something comforting, try these upgrades:
- Spicy: Add chili flakes, chili oil, or a spoonful of gochujang for a Korean twist. Even a few drops of hot sauce will do the trick.
- Cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a slice of American cheese. It melts beautifully into the noodles, giving a creamy, savory finish.
- Creamy: For a velvety texture, try mixing in a teaspoon of Kewpie mayo, cream cheese, or a splash of milk. Some TikTokers even add a dollop of Greek yogurt!
Want a fusion feel? Add miso paste for umami depth or peanut butter for a nutty Thai-inspired version.
Protein Add-Ons: Eggs, Tofu, Bacon & More
The base tiktok ramen recipe includes an optional egg, but you can take it further depending on your hunger level or dietary preferences:
| Protein Add-On | How to Use It |
|---|---|
| Soft-Boiled Egg | Add as a topping after cooking |
| Scrambled Egg | Mix directly into the noodles while hot |
| Bacon Bits | Crisp and stir in before serving |
| Tofu Cubes | Pan-fry for a crispy edge |
| Shredded Chicken | Stir in pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken |
Adding protein not only makes your ramen more filling but also balances out the carbs.
Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Tweaks
Yes, you can make a totally plant-based TikTok ramen recipe and still get major flavor.
- Use vegan butter or neutral oil
- Replace egg with tofu or tempeh
- Add sautéed mushrooms or greens for a veggie boost
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version
Pro tip: Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy—perfect for vegan ramen bowls.
What Does TikTok Ramen Taste Like?
If you’ve ever wondered what all the hype is about, let’s get into the flavor profile of the famous TikTok ramen recipe. It’s not your average instant noodle dish. This version packs deep umami flavor, a touch of sweetness, and rich buttery notes—all tied together in a silky sauce that clings to every strand.
A Balance of Salty, Sweet, and Savory
The classic TikTok ramen recipe hits multiple taste zones at once. Here’s how the main ingredients deliver their punch:
- Soy sauce brings salty umami
- Brown sugar gives subtle sweetness that balances the salt
- Butter adds richness and depth
- Garlic sharpens and brightens everything
- Optional chili flakes or hot sauce kick up the heat
The final dish tastes like a cross between soy garlic noodles and a buttery stir-fry—with a bit of eggy comfort if you add an egg. It’s bold, but not overwhelming.
Think of it as ramen 2.0—familiar, but upgraded in the best way.
Texture: Saucy, Glossy, and Addictively Chewy
Another reason the TikTok ramen recipe works so well is texture. Instead of soupy noodles floating in broth, this recipe is sauced—more like pasta than traditional ramen.
Here’s what makes it irresistible:
- Chewy noodles from cooking the ramen al dente
- Glossy sauce that coats every strand
- Optional egg that adds silkiness
- Crispy toppings like sesame seeds or scallions for contrast
The texture is key. It’s rich but not greasy, and satisfying without feeling heavy. And that chew? It keeps you coming back for bite after bite.
No wonder creators record themselves slurping up every last strand—this is comfort food that looks and tastes like a win.
What’s the 🍥 in Ramen? + Pink Swirls Explained
If you’ve seen the white and pink swirl floating in noodle bowls on TikTok and wondered, “What is that?”—you’re not alone. The iconic ramen emoji (🍥) represents narutomaki, a classic ramen topping that’s suddenly trending again thanks to the rise of the TikTok ramen recipe.
What Is Narutomaki?
Narutomaki is a type of Japanese fish cake made from pureed white fish (typically pollock), shaped into a log, steamed, and sliced into discs. What makes it special—and recognizable—is the pink swirl in the middle. That spiral design mimics the natural whirlpools of Japan’s Naruto Strait, which is how narutomaki got its name.
- Color: White with a pink swirl
- Texture: Firm, slightly chewy
- Flavor: Mildly savory, slightly fishy
While it doesn’t pack bold flavor, narutomaki adds nostalgia, tradition, and texture to your ramen bowl.
Why Is It Popular in TikTok Ramen?
The TikTok ramen recipe is all about visual appeal as much as taste—and narutomaki is highly “aesthetic.” It pops in photos and videos, giving creators a way to blend classic ramen culture with modern viral flair.
You’ll spot narutomaki in:
- Styled TikTok ramen bowls
- Ramen charcuterie boards
- Ramen ASMR videos
- Anime-inspired noodle edits
If you want to try it, you can find narutomaki in the frozen aisle of many Asian grocery stores or order it online. Just thaw, slice, and toss it on your finished bowl for instant ramen cred.
What Is the Pink Squishy Thing in Ramen?
That’s narutomaki too! Many users on TikTok call it “the pink squishy thing” because it looks soft, playful, and decorative. Though it’s not included in the base tiktok ramen recipe, it’s often added for authenticity or fun.
Pro tip: Boil or microwave narutomaki briefly to warm it before adding it as a topping.
Can You Put an Egg in Instant Ramen?
The short answer? Absolutely. One of the easiest—and tastiest—ways to upgrade any TikTok ramen recipe is by adding an egg. Whether you like it runny, soft-boiled, scrambled, or stirred into the sauce, eggs bring richness, protein, and that satisfying “comfort food” factor.
Soft-Boiled, Poached, Scrambled – Choose Your Egg Style
There’s no one right way to add an egg to your tiktok ramen recipe. It depends on your vibe: do you want gooey yolk that spills into the noodles, or fluffy egg ribbons woven through the sauce?
Here are your options:
| Egg Style | How to Make It | Flavor & Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Soft-Boiled | Boil for 6–7 minutes, peel carefully | Creamy yolk, intact white |
| Poached | Crack into simmering water or broth | Soft, tender, runny yolk |
| Scrambled | Whisk and stir into hot noodles | Velvety texture, blended in |
| Fried | Pan-fry and top the bowl | Crispy edge, runny center |
TikTok creators often go for scrambled or soft-boiled eggs because they blend beautifully with the sauce.
Timing Tips for Cooking Eggs with 2-Minute Noodles
Adding eggs to ramen is all about timing. Here’s how to avoid overcooked or rubbery results:
- Soft-boiled: Prep the egg in advance while the noodles cook.
- Scrambled: Add after the sauce is made and toss gently.
- Poached in broth: Drop the egg into boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to your bowl.
If you’re customizing your TikTok ramen recipe, try cracking an egg right into the skillet after tossing the noodles with sauce—stir for 30 seconds and you’ll get silky, custard-like egg ribbons throughout.
Fun Ramen Hacks from TikTok
TikTok isn’t just about reinventing classic recipes—it’s about pushing boundaries. Once the original TikTok ramen recipe took off, creators around the world started using instant noodles in clever, unexpected ways. The result? Ramen grilled cheese, noodle tacos, even ramen breakfast bowls. These hacks prove ramen isn’t just dinner—it’s a playground.
Ramen Grilled Cheese
Yes, this exists—and yes, it’s wildly good.
How it works:
Cook instant noodles and mix with egg and cheese. Press the mixture into a hot pan to form a “bread” layer. Once crispy, flip and add more cheese in the middle, like a sandwich. The result? A cheesy crunch bomb with ramen on both sides.
Why it’s viral:
It’s easy, cheesy, and ridiculously photogenic. The ultimate snack for late-night cravings or TikTok clout.
Ramen Tacos
Crunchy, fusion, and fun—ramen tacos are another unexpected hit.
How it works:
Cook noodles, drain well, and mix with cheese and egg. Press into taco shell molds or muffin tins and bake until crisp. Fill with spicy beef, tofu, or veggies and drizzle with Sriracha mayo.
Why it works:
It’s a crispy shell with a soft noodle bite inside. And it’s the kind of wild idea TikTok was made for.
Cold Ramen Salads & More
The TikTok ramen recipe is traditionally served hot, but many creators are turning it into summer-friendly cold dishes:
- Cold sesame ramen with cucumbers and sesame oil
- Ramen noodle slaw with cabbage and vinegar dressing
- Ramen “poke bowls” with seaweed, edamame, and spicy mayo
Cold ramen hacks keep the fun while switching up the flavor and feel.
Bonus Hack: Ramen Mozzarella Balls
These bite-sized snacks use leftover noodles mixed with cheese, rolled into balls, then deep fried or air fried until golden. A perfect blend of crunchy outside and gooey inside.
Frequently Asked Questions About TikTok Ramen Recipe
What is Kylie Jenner’s ramen recipe?
Kylie Jenner’s ramen recipe is a simplified comfort twist that helped spark early interest in elevated instant noodles. She shared that she adds butter, garlic powder, and a beaten egg to her ramen, creating a creamy, flavorful broth. While it’s different from the more intense TikTok ramen recipe, her version laid the groundwork for today’s viral noodle hacks.
What is 🍥 in ramen?
The pink swirl emoji 🍥 represents narutomaki, a type of Japanese fish cake commonly used in ramen bowls. It’s made from steamed white fish paste with a decorative pink swirl in the center. While narutomaki isn’t a standard part of the tiktok ramen recipe, it often appears in TikTok videos for its aesthetic appeal.
How to pimp your instant ramen?
To upgrade your noodles into a TikTok ramen recipe, skip the seasoning packet and stir-fry the noodles with a custom sauce—usually butter, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Add-ins like cheese, eggs, scallions, sesame oil, or even leftover veggies can elevate the dish from snack to gourmet in minutes.
What does TikTok ramen taste like?
The TikTok ramen recipe is known for its rich, saucy flavor profile. It’s salty from the soy sauce, slightly sweet from the sugar, and deeply savory thanks to butter and garlic. The noodles are glossy, chewy, and often paired with egg or cheese for extra creaminess. It’s comfort food with a viral edge.
What is the pink squishy thing in ramen?
The “pink squishy thing” is usually narutomaki, also known as fish cake. It’s firm yet soft and often used as a garnish in traditional ramen. In TikTok ramen recipe videos, it’s used more for looks than taste—but it adds fun texture and traditional flair.
Can you put an egg in 2 minute noodles?
Yes, and it’s one of the easiest ways to level up your TikTok ramen recipe. You can crack an egg into boiling water for poached texture, stir it into hot noodles for a scramble, or top your bowl with a soft-boiled or fried egg. Eggs add protein, creaminess, and richness to your ramen.
Conclusion: Why the TikTok Ramen Recipe Is Here to Stay
From humble beginnings to viral status, the TikTok ramen recipe proves that even the simplest ingredients can be transformed into something unforgettable. With butter, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of creativity, instant noodles have evolved into a crave-worthy dish loved by millions.
What sets this recipe apart isn’t just the taste—it’s the freedom to customize, remix, and make it your own. Whether you’re adding an egg, melting cheese, or crafting ramen grilled cheese, the options are endless. And the best part? You don’t need a culinary degree—just 10 minutes, a pan, and a little TikTok inspiration.
So the next time you crave something bold, budget-friendly, and ready in minutes, try this viral classic. You’ll see why the TikTok ramen recipe isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle.
Looking for more fun noodle hacks and flavor-packed meals? Check out our latest kitchen trends and viral food guides!