10 Best Instant Ramen of 2024
Instant ramen has become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, known for its convenience, affordability, and versatility. Whether you're a busy student, a professional on the go, or a family looking for quick meal solutions, instant ramen offers a simple yet satisfying option. With a variety of flavors and styles, it’s easy to find a type of ramen that suits your taste and lifestyle.
To help you navigate the vast selection of instant ramen available, we've curated a list of the top 10 best instant ramen options from popular sites like Amazon and identified the most highly recommended and popular choices. Our goal is to provide you with the best instant ramen options, whether you’re looking for classic flavors, spicy varieties, or healthier alternatives.
Quick List - Top Instant Ramen
Maruchan, Inc.
Easy-to-Prepare Instant Ramen in a Classic Chicken Flavor
Samyang Food Co., Ltd.
A Korean Ramen With an Innovative Flavor Combination
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Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Understanding the Benefits of Instant Ramen: Quick, Budget-Friendly, and Versatile
- Is Instant Ramen Unhealthy? What You Need to Know
- How to Choose Instant Noodles - Buying Guide
- Explore Popular Flavors: From Classic Chicken to Rich Miso1
- Choose the Right Type for You: Cup Noodles vs. Pack Noodles2
- Opt for Bulk Packs of Instant Ramen for Economical Family Meals3
- For a Healthier Lifestyle: Choose Low-Sodium, MSG-Free Instant Ramen Varieties4
- 10 Best Instant Ramen
- No. 1Maruchan, Inc. | Maruchan｜Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor
- No. 2Nissin Foods USA Co Inc | Top Ramen｜Chicken
- No. 3Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk | Indomie｜Mi Goreng
- No. 4Samyang Food Co., Ltd. | Buldak｜Spicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara
- No. 5Annie Chun's | Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Instant Ramen Expire?
- Does Instant Ramen Make You Fat?
- Does Instant Ramen Have Gluten?
- Can't Get Enough Noodles?
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Understanding the Benefits of Instant Ramen: Quick, Budget-Friendly, and Versatile
Instant ramen is a staple in many households for good reasons. It's incredibly quick to prepare, often ready in just a few minutes, making it perfect for those with busy schedules. Budget-friendly, instant ramen is one of the most affordable meal options available, ideal for students, families, and anyone looking to save money. Additionally, its versatility is unmatched; you can enjoy it as is or customize it with various toppings like eggs, vegetables, and meats to create a more satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you're in a rush or just looking for a convenient meal option, instant ramen is a reliable choice.
Is Instant Ramen Unhealthy? What You Need to Know
Instant ramen often gets a bad reputation for being unhealthy, but the truth is more nuanced. While traditional instant ramen can be high in sodium and sometimes contains additives like MSG, many brands now offer healthier alternatives. Look for options that are low in sodium, free from MSG, and made with whole grain noodles. Additionally, you can boost the nutritional value of your instant ramen by adding fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and other wholesome ingredients. Moderation and mindful choices can help you enjoy instant ramen as part of a balanced diet.
How to Choose Instant Noodles - Buying Guide
There are a lot of instant ramen choices on the market, and it can be hard to decide which is best. Let's take a look at some of the ways to choose the perfect instant ramen for you.
Explore Popular Flavors: From Classic Chicken to Rich Miso
Instant ramen comes in a wide array of flavors that cater to various tastes and preferences. With such a diverse range of flavors, there's always a new and delicious instant ramen to try.
For a Rich and Savory Experience: Choose Miso and Tonkotsu
If you're looking for a deeper, more complex flavor profile in your instant ramen, miso and tonkotsu varieties are excellent choices. Miso ramen, made with fermented soybean paste, delivers a hearty and slightly sweet taste that’s both rich and comforting. Tonkotsu ramen, on the other hand, features a creamy pork bone broth that’s full of umami and has a luxurious, velvety texture. Both options offer a gourmet-style ramen experience that’s perfect for those who want something more indulgent than the standard flavors.
For a Unique Twist: Experience Curry and Kimchi Flavors
For those seeking something different from their instant ramen, curry and kimchi flavors offer exciting and bold alternatives. Curry-flavored ramen combines the warm, aromatic spices of traditional curry with the comforting texture of noodles, creating a deliciously unique fusion. Kimchi ramen introduces a spicy, tangy kick with its fermented vegetable base, adding a zesty and vibrant flavor profile that’s both intriguing and satisfying. These varieties are perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their ramen routine and explore new culinary territories.
For Classic Taste, Go With Chicken and Beef Flavors
For those who enjoy traditional flavors, chicken and beef instant ramen are timeless favorites. Chicken-flavored ramen offers a mild, savory broth that's both comforting and familiar, making it a go-to choice for many. Beef-flavored ramen, with its hearty and rich broth, provides a satisfying and robust taste experience. Both options are versatile and pair well with a variety of add-ins like vegetables, eggs, and meats, allowing you to enjoy a classic and delicious meal every time.
Choose the Right Type for You: Cup Noodles vs. Pack Noodles
When deciding between cup noodles and pack noodles, it's essential to consider your lifestyle and meal preferences. Whether you prioritize convenience or creativity in your meals, there's an instant ramen option that's right for you.
For Maximum Convenience: Opt for Cup Noodles
Cup noodles are the epitome of convenience, making them ideal for busy individuals. Simply add hot water directly into the cup, wait a few minutes, and your meal is ready to eat—no additional cookware or cleanup required. This makes cup noodles perfect for quick lunches at work, easy meals during travel, or a hassle-free option when you’re short on time. Their portable nature and minimal preparation make them a go-to choice for anyone needing a fast, satisfying meal without the fuss.
For Customizable Meals: Choose Pack Noodles
Pack noodles are perfect for those who enjoy personalizing their meals. Unlike cup noodles, pack noodles come with separate seasonings and noodles, giving you the flexibility to enhance your dish with fresh ingredients. You can add vegetables, eggs, meats, or your favorite spices to create a more nutritious and flavorful meal. This level of customization allows you to tailor each bowl of ramen to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making pack noodles a versatile and satisfying option for home cooks.
Opt for Bulk Packs of Instant Ramen for Economical Family Meals
Bulk packs of instant ramen are a smart choice for families looking to stretch their grocery budget. These packs offer great value, providing multiple servings at a lower cost per unit compared to individual packages. With a variety of flavors often included, bulk packs cater to different taste preferences within the family, ensuring everyone can enjoy their favorite type. They are also convenient to have on hand for quick, easy meals, making them an economical and practical option for busy households.
For a Healthier Lifestyle: Choose Low-Sodium, MSG-Free Instant Ramen Varieties
For those mindful of their health, low-sodium and MSG-free instant ramen varieties are excellent choices. These options help reduce your intake of excess salt and additives, which is beneficial for heart health and overall well-being. Many brands now offer instant ramen made with whole grains and added vegetables, providing a more balanced meal. By choosing these healthier alternatives, you can enjoy the convenience and taste of instant ramen while sticking to your dietary goals.
10 Best Instant Ramen
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Item Weight | Number of Items | Flavor | Form | Calories per Serving | Serving Size | Servings per Container | Sodium per Serving | Carbs per Serving | MSG-Free | Specifications | Bulk Pack | |||||
1 | Maruchan, Inc. Maruchan｜Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor | | Easy-to-Prepare Instant Ramen in a Classic Chicken Flavor | 2.25 oz. | 12 items | Chicken | Cup | 290 cal | 1 container | 12 servings | 1150mg | 39g | ||||
2 | Nissin Foods USA Co Inc Top Ramen｜Chicken | | An MSG-Free Version of a Traditional Ramen | 3 oz. | 24 items | Chicken | Pack | 380 cal | 1 package | 24 servings | 1590mg | 53g | ||||
3 | Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk Indomie｜Mi Goreng | | A Lower-Sodium Ramen from Indonesia | 3 oz. | 30 items | Original Blend | Pack | 390 cal | 1 packet | 30 servings | 820mg | 53g | Halal | |||
4 | Samyang Food Co., Ltd. Buldak｜Spicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara | | A Korean Ramen With an Innovative Flavor Combination | 4.58 oz. | 5 items | Chicken, Carbonara | Pack | 550 cal | 1 bag | 5 servings | 1330mg | 84g | Halal | |||
5 | Annie Chun's Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl | | A Thai-Style, Vegan Noodle Bowl for Busy Mealtimes | 8.7 oz. | 6 items | Peanut Sesame | Bowl | 540 cal | 1 bowl | 6 servings | 680mg | 85g | Vegan, Non-GMO | |||
6 | Sanyo Foods Corp. Of America Sapporo Ichiban｜Original | | A Japanese Ramen With a Chicken and Soy Sauce Broth | 460 oz. | 24 items | Original Blend, Soy Sauce | Pack | 460 cal | 1 package | 24 servings | 1820mg | 62g | ||||
7 | Ottogi Co., Ltd. Jin Ramen｜Mild | | A Korean Ramen in a Convenient Bulk Pack | 4.23 oz. | 18 items | Original Blend | Pack | 250 cal | 2.12 oz. | 36 servings | 940mg | 39g | ||||
8 | Fonusa Agung Mulia Pt. Lemonilo｜Curry Chicken | | An Indonesian Curry Ramen That’s Free From MSG | 2.57 oz. | 1 item | Chicken, Curry | Pack | 270 cal | 1 packet | 1 serving | 1580mg | 48g | ||||
9 | Fifty Foods Inc. Immi｜Black Garlic "Chicken" Ramen | | A Plant-Based Ramen With a Savory Flavor Profile | 2.4 oz. | 6 items | Black Garlic, Chicken | Pack | 310 cal | 1 package | 6 servings | 880mg | 24g | Vegan, Keto, Non-GMO | |||
10 | （株）一蘭 Ichiran｜Official Take-Home Ramen Kit | | A Traditional Japanese Ramen in an Easy-to-Prepare Package | 13.6 oz. | 1 item | Tonkotsu | Pack | 450 cal | 1 bundle of noodles, soup base and seasoning | 3 servings | 2530mg | 62g | ||||
Maruchan, Inc.Maruchan ｜ Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor
| Flavor | Chicken |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 290 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 1150mg |
| Specifications |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
Easy-to-Prepare Instant Ramen in a Classic Chicken Flavor
Maruchan Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor is a cup-packaged soup that is available in packs of 12. This instant soup features a chicken flavor combined with vegetables, such as corn, carrots, green peas, onion, garlic, and celery stalk. Its powdered and dried form allows for a quick preparation time of three minutes. It’s a good choice for quick meals at the office, while camping, or on the beach.
| Item Weight | 2.25 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 12 items |
| Form | Cup |
| Serving Size | 1 container |
| Servings per Container | 12 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 39g |
Nissin Foods USA Co IncTop Ramen ｜ Chicken
| Flavor | Chicken |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 380 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 1590mg |
| Specifications |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
An MSG-Free Version of a Traditional Ramen
Nissin Top Ramen - Chicken flavor is an instant ramen that comes in a pack form, with 24 packs per container. It only requires boiling water for preparation and has a cooking time of three minutes. It does not contain added MSG and can be enjoyed as a snack, meal, or side dish. It's a good option for lunch during busy afternoons or in an innovative form like adding the dried noodles on top of a salad to add some crunch.
| Item Weight | 3 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 24 items |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 1 package |
| Servings per Container | 24 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 53g |
Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur TbkIndomie ｜ Mi Goreng
| Flavor | Original Blend |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 390 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 820mg |
| Specifications | Halal |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
A Lower-Sodium Ramen from Indonesia
Indomie Mi Goreng Fried Noodles are instant noodles from Indonesia that do not come in a soup, but more resemble stir-fried noodles. Each serving contains 390 calories and includes allergens such as sesame, sesame oil, soy, soybean, and wheat. The noodles are quick to prepare: just add hot water, wait for three minutes, drain, and mix with the included condiments. These noodles are also 100% halal certified, and have one of the lower levels of sodium out of the ramens on our list. Although, at 820 mg per serving, it is still quite high.
| Item Weight | 3 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 30 items |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 1 packet |
| Servings per Container | 30 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 53g |
Samyang Food Co., Ltd.Buldak ｜ Spicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara
| Flavor | Chicken, Carbonara |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 550 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 1330mg |
| Specifications | Halal |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
A Korean Ramen With an Innovative Flavor Combination
Samyang Buldak Spicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara is an interesting flavor addition to traditional Korean ramen. The noodles do not come in a soup but are stir-fried with sauce, which is flavored as a spicy version of chicken carbonara. They come in a pack of 5, so when you try them out, you’ll have enough left to eat if you like them, but won’t feel like you wasted too much money if you don’t. The ramen is also halal certified.
| Item Weight | 4.58 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 5 items |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 1 bag |
| Servings per Container | 5 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 84g |
Annie Chun'sThai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl
| Flavor | Peanut Sesame |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 540 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 680mg |
| Specifications | Vegan, Non-GMO |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
A Thai-Style, Vegan Noodle Bowl for Busy Mealtimes
Annie Chun's Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl is an instant noodle option designed for quick and easy preparation, requiring only two minutes in the microwave, making it ideal for busy individuals, students, professionals, and campers. The dish features Hokkien noodles mixed with a peanut sesame sauce and includes toppings such as bok choy, cabbage, sesame seeds, and roasted peanuts. The noodle bowl also includes no saturated fat or cholesterol, and is certified vegan.
| Item Weight | 8.7 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 6 items |
| Form | Bowl |
| Serving Size | 1 bowl |
| Servings per Container | 6 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 85g |
Sanyo Foods Corp. Of AmericaSapporo Ichiban ｜ Original
| Flavor | Original Blend, Soy Sauce |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 460 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 1820mg |
| Specifications |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
A Japanese Ramen With a Chicken and Soy Sauce Broth
Sapporo Ichiban Original ramen is a Japanese ramen brand made with wavy noodles in a light brown soup made from chicken stock, soy sauce, vegetables, and spices. The product is intended to be prepared by boiling the noodles and adding the provided powdered soup packet, so it is not as quick as cup noodles. In addition, it is not MSG-free and its sodium content is quite high at 1820 mg per serving.
| Item Weight | 460 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 24 items |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 1 package |
| Servings per Container | 24 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 62g |
Ottogi Co., Ltd.Jin Ramen ｜ Mild
| Flavor | Original Blend |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 250 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 940mg |
| Specifications |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
A Korean Ramen in a Convenient Bulk Pack
Jin Ramen - Mild is a Korean “ramyun”, with a flavor profile distinct from Japanese ramen. It comes in a bulk pack of 18, so it’s easy to save money on a larger amount of ramen packs per purchase. This ramen contains 940 mg of sodium per serving, which is actually on the lower end for ramen. But, one serving is only half of a pack, so it includes significantly more sodium if the whole pack is eaten.
| Item Weight | 4.23 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 18 items |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 2.12 oz. |
| Servings per Container | 36 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 39g |
Fonusa Agung Mulia Pt.Lemonilo ｜ Curry Chicken
| Flavor | Chicken, Curry |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 270 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 1580mg |
| Specifications |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
An Indonesian Curry Ramen That’s Free From MSG
Lemonilo Ramen Curry Chicken is a ramen from Indonesia that offers a flavorful twist on traditional instant noodles with a chicken curry soup inspired by stir-fried ramen. Made from wheat, cassava flour, and turmeric, these oven-baked noodles are a healthier alternative to deep-fried ramen noodles. They are also free from trans fats, artificial colors, flavors, MSG, and preservatives, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Ready in under five minutes, this ramen is also a good option for a quick meal at home.
| Item Weight | 2.57 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 item |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 1 packet |
| Servings per Container | 1 serving |
| Carbs per Serving | 48g |
Fifty Foods Inc.Immi ｜ Black Garlic "Chicken" Ramen
| Flavor | Black Garlic, Chicken |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 310 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 880mg |
| Specifications | Vegan, Keto, Non-GMO |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
A Plant-Based Ramen With a Savory Flavor Profile
Immi Black Garlic "Chicken" Ramen is a vegan version of classic black garlic ramen, with a flavor profile that is savory, with notes of garlic, scallions, and umami. Each pouch contains 12 ounces of ramen per pack and 21-22g of protein, so it is bound to fill you up. This ramen is also low carb, high protein, and keto-friendly.
| Item Weight | 2.4 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 6 items |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 1 package |
| Servings per Container | 6 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 24g |
（株）一蘭Ichiran ｜ Official Take-Home Ramen Kit
| Flavor | Tonkotsu |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 450 cal |
| Sodium per Serving | 2530mg |
| Specifications |
- MSG-Free
- Bulk Pack
A Traditional Japanese Ramen in an Easy-to-Prepare Package
The Ichiran Official Take-Home Ramen Kit allows you to prepare tonkotsu ramen at home in three minutes. This kit contains three packs each of soup concentrate, thin straight noodles, and a spicy red seasoning blend, and is the flavor of Ichiran's original pork bone broth ramen. The noodles are also designed to release less starch, which give them a firm, chewy texture. However, do keep in mind that this ramen has the highest sodium content on our list, at 2,530 mg per serving, or 110% of your daily value of sodium.
| Item Weight | 13.6 oz. |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 item |
| Form | Pack |
| Serving Size | 1 bundle of noodles, soup base and seasoning |
| Servings per Container | 3 servings |
| Carbs per Serving | 62g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Still curious about some aspects of instant noodles? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions.
Does Instant Ramen Expire?
Yes, instant ramen does expire, but it typically has a long shelf life. Most instant ramen packages have a "best by" date rather than an expiration date, indicating the period during which the product is at its best quality. This date is usually one to two years from the production date. While instant ramen can be safe to eat past the "best by" date, its flavor and texture may degrade over time. It's always best to store instant ramen in a cool, dry place to maximize its shelf life and check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Does Instant Ramen Make You Fat?
Instant ramen, like any food, can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess and without considering overall dietary balance. Instant ramen is typically high in calories, fats, and sodium while being low in essential nutrients, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues if eaten frequently as a primary meal. However, enjoying instant ramen occasionally as part of a balanced diet, especially when enhanced with healthy add-ins like vegetables and lean proteins, is unlikely to cause significant weight gain. Moderation and mindful eating are key to maintaining a healthy weight.
Does Instant Ramen Have Gluten?
Yes, most traditional instant ramen contains gluten. The primary ingredient in instant ramen noodles is wheat flour, which naturally contains gluten. Therefore, individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid regular instant ramen. However, there are gluten-free alternatives available on the market, made from rice, buckwheat, or other gluten-free flours. Always check the ingredient list and look for certified gluten-free labels if you need to avoid gluten in your diet.
Can't Get Enough Noodles?
Whether you want noodles that only require adding boiling water, or you want to get adventurous and cook up something unique, we've got you covered.
Top 5 Instant Ramen
No. 1: Maruchan, Inc.｜Maruchan｜Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor
No. 2: Nissin Foods USA Co Inc｜Top Ramen｜Chicken
No. 3: Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk｜Indomie｜Mi Goreng
No. 4: Samyang Food Co., Ltd.｜Buldak｜Spicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara
No. 5: Annie Chun's｜Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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