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Instant RamenHelping You Find the Best
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Instant RamenHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Instant Ramen of 2024 1
  • 10 Best Instant Ramen of 2024 2
  • 10 Best Instant Ramen of 2024 3
  • 10 Best Instant Ramen of 2024 4
  • 10 Best Instant Ramen of 2024 5

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.

Last updated 06/12/2024

Quick List - Top Instant Ramen

1

Maruchan, Inc.

MaruchanInstant Lunch - Chicken Flavor
Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor

Easy-to-Prepare Instant Ramen in a Classic Chicken Flavor

2

Nissin Foods USA Co Inc

Top RamenChicken
Chicken

An MSG-Free Version of a Traditional Ramen

3

Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk

IndomieMi Goreng
Mi Goreng

A Lower-Sodium Ramen from Indonesia

4

Samyang Food Co., Ltd.

BuldakSpicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara
Spicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara

A Korean Ramen With an Innovative Flavor Combination

5

Annie Chun's

Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl
Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl

A Thai-Style, Vegan Noodle Bowl for Busy Mealtimes

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Understanding the Benefits of Instant Ramen: Quick, Budget-Friendly, and Versatile

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

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.

1

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

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 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 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.

2

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

For Maximum Convenience: Opt for Cup Noodles
Source:amazon.com

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

For Customizable Meals: Choose Pack Noodles
Source:amazon.com

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.

3

Opt for Bulk Packs of Instant Ramen for Economical Family Meals

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.

4

For a Healthier Lifestyle: Choose Low-Sodium, MSG-Free Instant Ramen Varieties

For a Healthier Lifestyle: Choose Low-Sodium, MSG-Free Instant Ramen Varieties
Source:amazon.com

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.

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10 Best Instant Ramen

We’ve extensively combed through reviews to pick out 10 of the most popular instant ramen. Let's take a look!
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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.

MaruchanInstant Lunch - Chicken Flavor

Maruchan, Inc. Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor 1

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 RamenChicken

Nissin Foods USA Co Inc Chicken 1

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

IndomieMi Goreng

Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk Mi Goreng 1

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.

BuldakSpicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara

Samyang Food Co., Ltd. Spicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara 1

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

Annie Chun's Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl 1

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 IchibanOriginal

Sanyo Foods Corp. Of America Original 1

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 RamenMild

Ottogi Co., Ltd. Mild 1

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.

LemoniloCurry Chicken

Fonusa Agung Mulia Pt. Curry Chicken 1

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.

ImmiBlack Garlic "Chicken" Ramen

Fifty Foods Inc. Black Garlic "Chicken" Ramen 1

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

IchiranOfficial Take-Home Ramen Kit

(株)一蘭 Official Take-Home Ramen Kit 1

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

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Maruchan, Inc.
MaruchanInstant Lunch - Chicken Flavor

Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor 1
Source:amazon.com
Instant Lunch - Chicken Flavor 2
Source:amazon.com
Lowest price
$6.24
Low Mid
Lowest price
$6.24
Low Mid
FlavorChicken
Calories per Serving290 cal
Sodium per Serving1150mg
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 Weight2.25 oz.
Number of Items12 items
FormCup
Serving Size1 container
Servings per Container12 servings
Carbs per Serving39g
View all
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No.2

Nissin Foods USA Co Inc
Top RamenChicken

Lowest price
$6.98
Low Mid
FlavorChicken
Calories per Serving380 cal
Sodium per Serving1590mg
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 Weight3 oz.
Number of Items24 items
FormPack
Serving Size1 package
Servings per Container24 servings
Carbs per Serving53g
View all
No.3

Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk
IndomieMi Goreng

Lowest price
$20.94
Mid
FlavorOriginal Blend
Calories per Serving390 cal
Sodium per Serving820mg
SpecificationsHalal
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 Weight3 oz.
Number of Items30 items
FormPack
Serving Size1 packet
Servings per Container30 servings
Carbs per Serving53g
View all
No.4

Samyang Food Co., Ltd.
BuldakSpicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara

Reference price
$11.79
Low Mid
FlavorChicken, Carbonara
Calories per Serving550 cal
Sodium per Serving1330mg
SpecificationsHalal
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 Weight4.58 oz.
Number of Items5 items
FormPack
Serving Size1 bag
Servings per Container5 servings
Carbs per Serving84g
View all
No.5

Annie Chun's
Thai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl

Lowest price
$19.14
Mid
FlavorPeanut Sesame
Calories per Serving540 cal
Sodium per Serving680mg
SpecificationsVegan, 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 Weight8.7 oz.
Number of Items6 items
FormBowl
Serving Size1 bowl
Servings per Container6 servings
Carbs per Serving85g
View all
No.6

Sanyo Foods Corp. Of America
Sapporo IchibanOriginal

Lowest price
$25.49
High Mid
FlavorOriginal Blend, Soy Sauce
Calories per Serving460 cal
Sodium per Serving1820mg
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 Weight460 oz.
Number of Items24 items
FormPack
Serving Size1 package
Servings per Container24 servings
Carbs per Serving62g
View all
No.7

Ottogi Co., Ltd.
Jin RamenMild

Lowest price
$26.79
FlavorOriginal Blend
Calories per Serving250 cal
Sodium per Serving940mg
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 Weight4.23 oz.
Number of Items18 items
FormPack
Serving Size2.12 oz.
Servings per Container36 servings
Carbs per Serving39g
View all
No.8

Fonusa Agung Mulia Pt.
LemoniloCurry Chicken

Lowest price
$4.59
Low
FlavorChicken, Curry
Calories per Serving270 cal
Sodium per Serving1580mg
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 Weight2.57 oz.
Number of Items1 item
FormPack
Serving Size1 packet
Servings per Container1 serving
Carbs per Serving48g
View all
No.9

Fifty Foods Inc.
ImmiBlack Garlic "Chicken" Ramen

Lowest price
$36.50
High Mid
FlavorBlack Garlic, Chicken
Calories per Serving310 cal
Sodium per Serving880mg
SpecificationsVegan, 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 Weight2.4 oz.
Number of Items6 items
FormPack
Serving Size1 package
Servings per Container6 servings
Carbs per Serving24g
View all
No.10

(株)一蘭
IchiranOfficial Take-Home Ramen Kit

Lowest price
$28.99
High Mid
FlavorTonkotsu
Calories per Serving450 cal
Sodium per Serving2530mg
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 Weight13.6 oz.
Number of Items1 item
FormPack
Serving Size1 bundle of noodles, soup base and seasoning
Servings per Container3 servings
Carbs per Serving62g
View all

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.

Top 5 Instant Ramen

No. 1: Maruchan, Inc.MaruchanInstant Lunch - Chicken Flavor

No. 2: Nissin Foods USA Co IncTop RamenChicken

No. 3: Pt Indofood Sukses Makmur TbkIndomieMi Goreng

No. 4: Samyang Food Co., Ltd.BuldakSpicy Chicken Flavor Ramen - Carbonara

No. 5: Annie Chun'sThai-Style Peanut Sesame Noodle Bowl

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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