Air frying ramen noodles is definitely possible and can result in noodles with a delicious crispy texture. While ramen noodles are traditionally boiled, air frying provides a great way to switch up the cooking method and texture of this popular snack or meal. With just an air fryer, some ramen noodles, and a few extra ingredients, you can make crispy, crunchy air fried ramen in less than 30 minutes.
What are the benefits of air frying ramen noodles?
There are a few benefits to air frying ramen noodles rather than boiling them:
- Crispy texture – Air frying results in noodles with a crispy, crunchy exterior while still maintaining a tender, chewy interior.
- Faster cooking time – Air frying ramen only takes 5-15 minutes compared to boiling which can take 3-5 minutes.
- Less watery – Air fried noodles absorb less water, so you don’t end up with overly moist or soggy noodles.
- Versatile – Air fried ramen noodles can be used in stir fries, noodle bowls, snacks, etc.
- New flavors – The crispy texture lends itself well to new seasonings and sauce flavors.
The crispy texture and shorter cook time are the two biggest benefits for most people who enjoy air fried ramen noodles over boiled.
Can you air fry ramen noodles from the package?
It is possible to air fry ramen noodles straight from the package without boiling them first, but it won’t lead to the best results.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- They may not cook through fully – Air frying dry ramen noodles may leave them undercooked and crunchy in the center.
- No flavor absorption – The dried noodles won’t absorb any flavors from a seasoning packet.
- Prone to burning – The fine noodles can easily burn if not frequently tossed during air frying.
- Sticking – Dried noodles may stick together in clumps which prevents even cooking.
For the best results, it is recommended to start with boiled ramen noodles when air frying. Boiling first allows the noodles to cook through fully and also absorb some flavor from the seasoning packet. Starting with boiled noodles prevents uneven cooking and potential burning.
How do you prepare ramen noodles for air frying?
Follow these simple steps for preparing boiled ramen noodles for air frying:
- Bring water to a boil in a pot. Follow the stovetop cooking directions on your ramen noodle package and boil the noodles for 1-3 minutes, just until tender.
- Drain the noodles well and optionally rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Pat dry the cooked noodles very well to remove excess moisture.
- Toss the drained noodles with a teaspoon of oil. This helps prevent sticking and also aids browning.
- Optional – For flavor, you can toss the cooked noodles with the seasoning packet, chili oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, etc.
- Spread the prepared noodles out evenly in the air fryer basket. Try not to overcrowd.
- Air fry at 360°F for 5-7 minutes, tossing halfway, until crispy.
It’s important that the boiled noodles are very dry before air frying. Too much moisture will prevent the noodles from getting crispy and will lead to sticking.
What are the best air fryer temperatures and times for ramen noodles?
The ideal air fryer temperature for crispy ramen noodles is between 325°F and 400°F. Any temperature in this range will work. 360°F is commonly used.
Air frying times can vary based on the amount of noodles, model of air fryer, and desired crispiness. Some general air frying guidelines are:
| Amount of Ramen Noodles | Air Fry Time |
|---|---|
| 1 packet (2-3 servings) | 5-7 minutes |
| 2 packets (4-6 servings) | 7-10 minutes |
| 3 packets (6-9 servings) | 10-12 minutes |
No matter the amount, toss or shake the noodles halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crisping. Also watch closely near the end to avoid burning.
What are some flavor ideas for air fried ramen noodles?
The crispy texture of air fried ramen noodles lends itself well to both sweet and savory seasonings.
Here are some delicious flavor ideas to try:
- Sesame oil + garlic powder + red pepper flakes – Perfect spicy and aromatic crunch.
- Soy sauce + brown sugar – For a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
- Parmesan cheese + garlic salt – Lots of rich umami flavor.
- BBQ sauce – Sweet, tangy, and addictive on crispy noodles.
- Thai peanut sauce – Great for a Thai noodle salad.
- Teriyaki + sesame seeds – Easy teriyaki noodles.
- Nacho cheese sauce – Cheesy noodles make a great snack.
- Cinnamon sugar – For a dessert version, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after air frying.
The crispiness of the noodles allows every flavor to really cling and coat each strand. Feel free to get creative with sauces and seasonings to customize the flavors.
What are some fun ways to serve air fried ramen noodles?
Beyond just a bowl of noodles, air fried ramen can be adapted into all kinds of dishes:
- Noodle salad – Toss cooled noodles with shredded vegetables, protein, and dressing for a hearty noodle salad.
- Stir fry – Stir fry crisp noodles with sliced protein, lots of veggies, and sauce for a quick meal.
- Noodle bowl – Layer noodles, protein, fresh vegetables, herbs, and sauce for customized bowls.
- Snack – Season air fried noodles with salt, seasoning blend, or powdered cheese for a crunchy snack.
- Soup topping – Sprinkle crispy noodles over soups like ramen for fun texture.
- Sandwich topping – Use air fried noodles instead of croutons on sandwiches and salads.
Crispy ramen noodles add a fun topping and garnish for many dishes beyond just noodle bowls. Get creative with recipes!
Can you reheat leftover air fried ramen noodles?
It is possible to reheat leftover air fried ramen noodles to enjoy again later.
Some tips for reheating air fried ramen noodles:
- Microwave – Place noodles in a bowl with a damp paper towel over top and microwave in 30 second increments, stirring between each, until hot.
- Oven – Spread noodles on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Sauté – Heat a skillet with oil or sauce and sauté the noodles briefly until warmed.
- Air Fryer – Air fry leftover noodles at 330°F for 3-5 minutes to re-crisp and heat.
The microwave produces the least crispy results while the oven and air fryer will help re-crisp the noodles. Just be careful not to overcook the noodles when reheating or they may get dried out.
Conclusion
Air frying is a great way to transform ramen noodles with a delicious crispy texture. For the best results, start by boiling the noodles briefly before patting dry and air frying. Toss the cooked noodles with oil and seasonings of choice before spreading in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 360°F for 5-10 minutes until crispy, tossing halfway. Finish with creative sauces and spice blends. Air fried ramen noodles make amazing soups, salads, snacks, noodle bowls, stir fries, and more. Be sure to store and reheat leftovers properly to maintain crispiness. Air frying provides a crunchy new way to enjoy this pantry staple.
