Layers of spicy pork, ramen noodles, tomato sauce, and creamy cheese create a hearty, comforting meal.
# Components:
→ Noodles
01 - 4 packages instant ramen noodles (3 oz each; discard seasoning packets)
→ Meat Sauce
02 - 1 lb ground pork (alternatively ground chicken or beef)
03 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
04 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons grated ginger
07 - 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
08 - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
09 - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
10 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
11 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon sugar
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheese Layer
14 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
15 - 1 large egg
16 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
17 - 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
18 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional for garnish)
# Preparation Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
02 - Boil ramen noodles for 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
04 - Add ground pork to skillet and cook until lightly browned, breaking up meat with a spoon.
05 - Stir in gochujang, red pepper flakes, crushed tomatoes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
06 - In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, half the mozzarella, and half the parmesan until evenly combined.
07 - Spread a thin layer of meat sauce over the bottom of a 9x13-inch (22x30 cm) baking dish.
08 - Add a layer of cooked ramen noodles, arranging to fit the dish. Spread one third of the ricotta mixture over noodles, followed by one third of the meat sauce. Repeat layers twice more, ending with remaining meat sauce.
09 - Scatter remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
10 - Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
11 - Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and golden.
12 - Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.
