Save A creamy, savory noodle dish that fuses classic Italian carbonara with quick-cook ramen, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot.
I first made this recipe for a late-night dinner when I was craving something hearty but quick. The result was so delicious that it instantly became a weeknight favorite in our home.
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 the 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 the 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.
- Prepare Carbonara Sauce:
- While the noodles cook, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and black pepper in a bowl.
- Mix Sauce with 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 My kids love twirling these noodles and scooping up the creamy sauce. Even picky eaters ask for seconds every time I make it.
Required Tools
Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker, whisk, mixing bowl, tongs or chopsticks
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, milk (Parmesan, cream), wheat (ramen noodles). Bacon may contain traces of other allergens; always check packaging.
Nutritional Information
Calories 540, Total Fat 28 g, Carbohydrates 48 g, Protein 23 g per serving
Save Serve immediately for best texture and enjoy this easy, fusion comfort food that brings together the flavors of Italy and Japan.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I substitute bacon with another meat?
Yes, pancetta is a great alternative and adds a similar savory depth to the dish.
- → How do I avoid scrambling the eggs when mixing the sauce?
Remove the pot from heat before adding the egg and cheese mixture, then stir vigorously so the residual heat thickens the sauce gently.
- → Is there a vegetarian option?
Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or peas for extra flavor and texture.
- → Can I use fresh pasta instead of instant noodles?
Fresh pasta can be used but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it cooks faster than dry ramen noodles.
- → What garnishes enhance this dish?
Extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley add savory richness and herbaceous brightness to finish the plate.