The humble Ramen noodle has long been a staple of college students and anyone else trying to save on money. These prepackaged noodles are not only incredibly affordable, but they're also extremely easy to make and pretty darn tasty. However, it is also possible to take the simple bowl of Ramen noodles and turn it into a truly fancy and spectacular meal. It takes a little bit more effort, but using Ramen noodles not as an end to itself but as a base can lead to culinary masterpieces and tastebud delight.
Noodle Chicken Salad

You don't have to cook your Ramen in boiling water. The noodles in their natural crunchy state are a great addition to a salad with chicken. You can simply break the noodles in small pieces and add to the salad like that, or you can put them on a baking sheet and broil them a few minutes until they are golden brown and extra crispy.
Crunchy Ramen Snack Mix

Here is another Ramen treat that doesn't require boiling. Add pieces of Ramen to a homemade snack mix, along with things like various nuts, wasabi peas, and spices.
Asian Ramen Coleslaw

One more crunchy Ramen idea – make an Asian slaw with cabbage, almonds and sesame seeds and add some crunchy Ramen pieces. Then top with a dressing made from oil, vinegar, and the Ramen's chicken seasoning packet.
Peanut Ramen Noodles

Ramen Noodles take on fancy Asian flare when you add a spicy, creamy peanut sauce to the cooked noodles.
Ramen Noodle Omelet

It sounds strange, but adding some cooked Ramen noodles to an omelette is surprisingly tasty.
Ramen Noodle and Chicken Chimichangas

Top a tortilla with cooked Ramen noodles, shredded cheeses, and seasoned grilled chicken. Roll it up and bake it and you have a tasty Mexican treat!
Asian Style Noodle Pancakes

Cooked Ramen noodles, shredded veggies, spices and some eggs can combine to create a unique and delicious meal.
Kimchi Ramen Grilled Cheese Sandwich

It's like a normal grilled cheese sandwich, but with added Kimchi and cooked Ramen noodles. Sounds strange until you taste it – you may never eat grilled cheese the old way again!
Ramen Noodle Bake

Noodles, spaghetti sauce, meat, and cheese. Baked into a unique and mouthwatering casserole.
Ramacos

The clever name of this meal combines Ramen and taco. It's the Ramen noodle taco! Just add Ramen noodles to the seasoned meat as it's cooking.
Cheesy Chili Ramen

Cook your ramen with some cheese powder, butter, and spicy bullion. This takes the basic Ramen noodle way beyond the standard flavor profiles. If that's not enough, add some chili and cheese on top!
Thai Shrimp Noodle Soup

Noodles, shrimp, veggies, and plenty of Asian seasoning make this a seriously delicious soup.
Sirloin Snap Pea Stir-Fry

Stir-fried steak, snap peas, and an Asian sauce all tossed with some Ramen. Simple, hearty, and so tasty.
Pork Ramen Soup

Thinly sliced seasoned pork and veggies on top of Ramen cooked with some extra spices and flavorings make for an elegant and yummy meal.
Pepperoni Ramen Pizza

Replace the crust of a typical pizza with seasoned Ramen noodles and you've got a fresh new take on pizza!
Ramephard’s Pie

Another fun name made from combining Ramen and Shepherd, this hearty dish is sure to please. Just top a traditional shepherd's pie with Ramen noodles and bake until crispy. The contrast of textures is incredible.
Ramen Cacio E Pepe

A classic Italian dish is stunningly transformed using Ramen noodles. This creamy dish is a decadent treat.