Instant Pot Carbonara Ramen

A creamy, savory noodle dish that fuses classic Italian carbonara with quick-cook ramen, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot.

When I first tried this Instant Pot carbonara ramen hack, I was amazed by how quickly dinner came together. The combination of smoky bacon and silky sauce feels indulgent, yet it's simple enough for busy weeknights.

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

Cook the bacon:

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp, about 3–4 minutes. Remove a tablespoon for garnish if desired. Leave the rest and the bacon fat in the pot.

Sauté garlic:

Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add noodles and water:

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 pressure when done.

Prepare egg mixture:

While noodles cook, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and black pepper in a bowl.

Combine and season:

Open the Instant Pot. Working quickly, add the egg-Parmesan mixture to hot noodles, stirring vigorously to create creamy sauce (the heat cooks eggs without scrambling them). Add salt to taste.

Serve:

Serve immediately, garnished with reserved bacon, extra Parmesan, and parsley if desired.

Save It

This carbonara ramen became an instant hit at our family dinner. Everyone loved the creamy texture and bold flavors, and it's now a go-to favorite when we want something comforting but speedy.

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 double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 540 Calories, 28 g Total Fat, 48 g Carbohydrates, 23 g Protein

Save It

Give this Instant Pot carbonara ramen a try when you crave creamy comfort with minimal effort. It will be ready before you know it, and every bite is totally satisfying.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use pancetta instead of bacon?

Yes, pancetta makes an excellent substitute and enhances the traditional carbonara flavor.

→ How do I avoid scrambled eggs when mixing the sauce?

Stir the egg and cheese mixture quickly into the hot noodles off heat to create a smooth, creamy sauce without scrambling.

→ Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?

Omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian alternative.

→ What kind of noodles works best in this dish?

Instant ramen noodles are preferred for quick cooking and texture, but other thin noodles can be used as well.

→ Can I prepare this dish without an Instant Pot?

While the Instant Pot speeds up cooking, you can prepare it on the stove by sautéing bacon and cooking noodles separately, then combining with the sauce.