Spicy Ramen Burgers are a bold fusion dish that swaps traditional burger buns with crispy fried ramen noodle patties, sandwiching a juicy, flavorful spicy beef patty inside.
This innovative recipe brings together the savory umami of ramen noodles, the heat of spicy seasoning, and the comforting satisfaction of a classic burger. Perfect for adventurous foodies looking for a unique twist on burgers, spicy ramen burgers are crunchy, spicy, juicy, and utterly addictive. They combine East Asian flavors with American comfort food, making every bite a playful explosion of textures and tastes.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Ramen “Buns”:
- 2 packets of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Spicy Beef Patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small chili pepper (like serrano or jalapeño), finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- Lettuce leaves (butter lettuce or iceberg)
- Sliced tomato
- Sliced red onion
- Mayonnaise or spicy mayo (mayonnaise mixed with Sriracha)
- Pickled cucumbers or jalapeños (optional)
Serves: 2–3 spicy ramen burgers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ramen Buns:
- Boil the ramen noodles in salted water for 2–3 minutes until just softened but still slightly firm (al dente).
- Drain well and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- While still warm, mix in the egg, cornstarch, and soy sauce thoroughly to bind the noodles.
- Divide the noodles evenly into 4 portions (for top and bottom buns).
- Using a round mold or your hands, shape each portion into a flat bun shape about 4–5 inches in diameter.
- Place shaped buns on parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Fry the Ramen Buns:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat (about ½ inch deep).
- Carefully fry each ramen bun for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and keep warm.
3. Make the Spicy Beef Patties:
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, chopped chili, soy sauce, Sriracha, sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently but thoroughly.
- Form into 2–3 equal-sized patties, slightly larger than your ramen buns since they will shrink during cooking.
4. Cook the Patties:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side or until desired doneness (medium is recommended).
- Remove and let rest for a few minutes.
5. Assemble the Spicy Ramen Burgers:
- Spread mayonnaise or spicy mayo on the bottom ramen bun.
- Add lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, and red onion.
- Place the spicy beef patty on top.
- Add pickled cucumbers or jalapeños if desired.
- Top with the second ramen bun.
- Secure with skewers if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve spicy ramen burgers with crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a classic combo.
- Offer extra Sriracha or spicy mayo on the side for dipping.
- Pair with a cold Asian beer or a refreshing iced green tea.
- Include a simple cucumber salad or kimchi as a tangy, crunchy side.
Tips for Perfect Spicy Ramen Burgers
- Don’t overcook ramen noodles: They should be al dente to hold their shape when frying.
- Chill the noodle buns: This step is key for easier frying and crispier texture.
- Use a non-stick pan or enough oil: Prevents noodles from sticking and breaking.
- Balance spice levels: Adjust chili and Sriracha to your heat preference.
- Rest beef patties after cooking: Retains juiciness.
Healthier Alternatives
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Bake ramen buns instead of frying for less oil and calories.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce and control added salt.
- Opt for whole wheat or multigrain ramen if available.
- Add extra veggies like shredded lettuce, cucumbers, or sprouts for fiber.
Creative Variations
- Teriyaki Ramen Burgers: Swap spicy beef for teriyaki-glazed chicken patties.
- Vegan Ramen Burgers: Use crispy tofu or black bean patties and egg replacer for buns.
- Cheesy Ramen Burgers: Add melted cheese slices atop the patty before assembly.
- Kimchi Ramen Burgers: Include kimchi for tangy crunch and probiotic benefits.
- Spicy Pork Ramen Burgers: Substitute beef with spicy ground pork mixed with garlic and chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping chilling the ramen buns: Leads to fragile buns that fall apart when frying.
- Overcooking noodles: Makes buns mushy and difficult to form.
- Pressing patties too hard: Results in dense burgers instead of juicy ones.
- Not enough oil for frying: Causes uneven crispiness and sticking.
- Overloading toppings: Makes the burger hard to eat and soggy.
History of Spicy Ramen Burgers
The ramen burger phenomenon first gained international attention in 2013, when Keizo Shimamoto, a Japanese-American chef in New York, created the original ramen burger by replacing burger buns with crispy fried ramen noodles. This innovative fusion quickly went viral, blending beloved American burger culture with East Asian ramen noodle tradition.
Spicy ramen burgers evolved as variations emerged, incorporating bold Asian spices, chili pastes, and sauces to enhance flavor profiles. This spicy twist caters to adventurous eaters who crave heat alongside unique textures.
Today, spicy ramen burgers are popular street foods and restaurant specialties in urban food scenes worldwide. They embody modern fusion cuisine’s spirit—combining comfort foods with unexpected, exciting elements for unforgettable taste experiences.
FAQs About Spicy Ramen Burgers
- Can I use instant ramen seasoning packets?
No, discard them as they contain excessive salt and additives; use your own seasonings instead. - How do I keep the ramen buns crispy?
Fry in enough oil at medium heat and serve immediately for the best crunch. - Can I prepare ramen buns ahead of time?
Yes, shape and refrigerate buns up to 24 hours ahead but fry fresh. - What other proteins work well?
Ground pork, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based patties are great alternatives. - Are ramen buns gluten-free?
Most instant ramen noodles contain wheat gluten; look for gluten-free noodles if needed. - How spicy is this burger?
Adjust the chili peppers and Sriracha to your heat tolerance. - Can I bake ramen buns instead of frying?
Yes, brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) until crispy, though frying is crispier. - How to prevent buns from falling apart?
Use egg and cornstarch binder and chill before frying to hold noodles together. - What dipping sauces pair well?
Spicy mayo, soy-ginger sauce, or sweet chili sauce complement the flavors. - Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Reduce or omit chili peppers and Sriracha for milder flavor suitable for kids.
Spicy Ramen Burgers are an exciting, mouthwatering fusion that transforms two beloved comfort foods into one unforgettable dish. The crispy ramen buns add an addictive crunch, perfectly complementing the juicy, spicy beef patty and fresh toppings. This recipe offers a playful balance of textures and flavors, sure to impress at casual meals or special gatherings. With simple ingredients and clear steps, anyone can bring this creative street-food-inspired dish to their table. Give spicy ramen burgers a try and experience a bold new twist on the classic burger that is as fun to eat as it is delicious.