Ramen noodles, spicy pork sauce, creamy cheeses and tomato are layered for a comforting, bold fusion main course.
# What You'll Need:
→ Noodles
01 - 4 packs instant ramen noodles (each 3 oz), discard seasoning packets
→ Meat Sauce
02 - 1 lb ground pork (substitute ground chicken or beef if desired)
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, or to taste
09 - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
10 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
11 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheese Layer
14 - 8 oz ricotta cheese
15 - 1 large egg
16 - 3.5 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
17 - 1.75 oz parmesan cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup)
18 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Set oven to 350°F (180°C) and allow to preheat.
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 chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until aromatic and translucent, about 3 minutes.
04 - Add ground pork to skillet. Cook, breaking up meat, until fully browned.
05 - Stir in gochujang, red pepper flakes, crushed tomatoes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes until thickened.
06 - Combine ricotta, egg, half the mozzarella, and half the parmesan in a mixing bowl; stir until smooth.
07 - Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange one pack of noodles over sauce. Distribute one-third of ricotta mixture over noodles and top with one-third of meat sauce. Repeat layering twice more, finishing with meat sauce.
08 - Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan evenly on top. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
09 - Remove foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and golden.
10 - Let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions if desired.
