Easy Shrimp Ramen – A Quick, Flavorful Meal for Beginners

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal that’s inexpensive and easy to make at home, this shrimp ramen recipe is a must-try. It’s the perfect upgrade from basic instant noodles, still budget-friendly and fast, but way more satisfying.

Whether you’re a college student learning to cook, a young adult cooking for one, or just someone who wants a good meal without a lot of effort, this shrimp ramen delivers every time.

Editor’s note: This is an updated version of an article originally posted September 2015 with better photos and additional information.

Why You’ll Love This Ramen

• Fast: Done in about 15 minutes
• Affordable: Uses pantry staples and frozen shrimp
• Flexible: Add whatever veggies or seasonings you like
• Comforting: Warm, filling, and cozy—perfect for busy days or late nights
• Beginner-friendly: No fancy equipment or techniques required

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients you might already have on hand:

• 1 pack ramen noodles
• 8–10 medium shrimp (frozen or fresh, peeled and deveined)
• 1–2 garlic cloves, minced 
• 1 green onion, sliced (plus more for topping)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (or olive or canola oil)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Optional: red pepper flakes, soft-boiled egg, baby spinach, frozen peas, mushrooms, or shredded carrots

Helpful Tips & Easy Swaps

• No shrimp? Try cooked chicken, tofu, or even a fried egg.
• Use pre-cooked frozen shrimp to save time, just thaw and pat dry.
• Spice it up: Add a few drops of Sriracha, chili oil, or red pepper flakes.
• Want it saucier? Stir in a splash of broth or a drizzle of teriyaki.
• Boost the nutrients: Toss in baby spinach, kale, frozen peas, or shredded carrots while the noodles cook.
• Feeling fancy? Top with a soft-boiled egg or drizzle of sesame oil.

Why This Recipe Works for College Students

Learning to cook doesn’t mean mastering complicated dishes. This ramen is perfect for:

• Students living in a dorm or small apartment
• First-time cooks gaining confidence in the kitchen
• Quick weeknight meals on a tight schedule
• Anyone wanting to spend less on takeout

It’s simple, customizable, and just satisfying enough to feel like a treat, especially after a long day of classes, work, or studying.

Make It Your Own

The best thing about this ramen? You can switch it up however you like. Keep shrimp as the star, or go vegetarian. Use frozen veggies, leftover meat, or whatever’s in the fridge. With just a few small upgrades, basic ramen becomes a full meal.

Shrimp Ramen (College-Approved & Easy)

Ingredients:

• 1 bag pork-flavored Top Ramen (or preferred flavor)
• 2 cups water
• ½ small onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 egg
• 5–7 cooked shrimp (thawed if frozen)
• 1 stalk green onion, sliced (greens and whites separated)
• 1 tsp butter
• Black pepper, to taste
• A few drops of Sriracha (optional)

Instructions:

In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced sweet onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Set aside.

In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and seasoning packet, along with the white parts of the green onions.

Once the noodles start to soften (about 2 minutes), crack the egg directly into the pot. Gently stir to scramble it into the soup.

When the noodles and egg are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic, a little black pepper, and a few drops of Sriracha if using.

Transfer to a bowl and top with shrimp and the green parts of the green onions.

Notes:

• Shrimp tip: If using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat dry before adding. Warm them briefly in the skillet with the onions for extra flavor.

• Make it your own: Add a handful of baby spinach, a drizzle of sesame oil, or a boiled egg if you’re feeling fancy.