Cheap Microwave Instant Noodles With Canned Corn

Cravings hit hard, but your wallet’s on strike? We’ve got your back with microwave noodles that turn cheap, instant ramen into a legit meal by adding canned corn. Seriously, this hack costs less than a vending machine snack and takes under 5 minutes.

No stove, no skills, no problem. You’ll transform basic noodles into something actually satisfying—sweet corn kernels add texture, vitamins, and that ‘I cooked’ feeling without the effort.

We’ll break down ingredient swaps, microwave timings, and even how to sneak in extra veggies or protein if you’re feeling fancy.

What Are Microwave Instant Noodles?

Microwave instant noodles are pre-cooked, dehydrated noodles designed to cook in minutes with hot water. Brands like Maruchan or Nissin pack them with umami-rich seasoning and a texture that holds up to microwaving. We’ve all had those “forgot my lunch” days—these noodles are our pantry superheroes.

Last summer, Sarah and Timmy demanded a picnic right now. I grabbed instant noodles, microwaved them at the park’s concession stand, and tossed in canned corn from our cooler. They declared it “camping ramen” and now request it weekly. Pro tip: Look for “cup noodles” with built-in containers—they’re spill-proof for on-the-go chaos.

Why Add Canned Corn to Microwave Noodles?

Canned corn is the cheat code for upgrading sad noodles. It adds natural sweetness, a satisfying crunch, and 3g of fiber per half-cup. Plus, corn’s Vitamin B6 gives this budget meal a sneaky nutrient boost. My kids call the kernels “flavor confetti”—and they’re not wrong. For a quick meal on a budget, combining cheap microwave ramen with canned corn can create an easy and delicious dish that kids will love.

During that picnic disaster-turned-win, Timmy tried to eat just the corn straight from the can. Now we mix it in to prevent sibling cutlery battles. Bonus: Canned corn costs ~$0.89 and needs zero prep. Drain it, stir, and boom—you’ve tricked everyone into thinking you meal-planned. For a hassle-free meal, consider pairing this corn with cheap microwave instant mashed potatoes for a delicious and quick side dish.

Ready to raid your pantry? Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need—including clever swaps if corn’s not your thing.

Ingredients for Microwave Noodles With Canned Corn

You’ll need three basics: instant noodles (any brand), a 15oz can of corn, and water. Our family swears by Maruchan Chicken flavor + Green Giant corn—it’s the sweet/savory combo that made Timmy stop trading his lunch for fruit snacks.

Instant Noodle Alternatives

Out of ramen? Use rice noodles (microwave 3 mins) or even uncooked spaghetti broken into 1-inch pieces (add 1 minute cooking time). During a snowstorm last year, we subbed in lasagna noodles snapped like twigs—kids called it “jagged jungle noodles” and demanded seconds. For an even easier meal, toss in some lazy microwave instant noodles veggies to enhance the flavor and nutrition without much effort.

Canned Corn Substitutes

Swap in frozen corn kernels (microwave 45 sec first) or canned peas for a greener vibe. My neighbor once used creamed corn—it turned broth into a chowder! Stick to drained sweet corn for best texture. For a quick and easy meal, consider whipping up a creamy corn chowder in the microwave. It’s a simple way to enjoy a delicious dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Also See: Camping Hash Browns: Microwave Crispy Method

How to Make Microwave Instant Noodles With Canned Corn

We’ve made this 73 times (yes, Timmy counts). Here’s our foolproof method for avoiding mush or explosive microwave moments.

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Crush noodles inside the package—a cathartic stress reliever! Transfer to a large microwave-safe bowl. Pro tip: Use one twice as big as you think—noodles expand like those foam dinosaurs in water. To cook noodles perfectly, a microwave is a quick and convenient option. It allows you to enjoy a delicious meal in just a few minutes.

Step 2: Microwave the Noodles

Add 2 cups water. Microwave on high 3 minutes. Stir halfway to prevent clumping. Our old dorm microwave took 4 minutes—adjust based on your appliance’s drama level.

Step 3: Drain and Add Canned Corn

Drain 90% of the water using the lid (prevents noodle jailbreaks). Mix in ½ cup drained canned corn. For warm kernels, microwave them 15 seconds first—learned this after Sarah declared “cold corn is an abomination.”

Step 4: Season and Mix Thoroughly

Sprinkle seasoning pack, then stir 20 seconds—this distributes flavor better than a TikTok trend. Add 1 tsp butter-infused corn if you’re feeling luxurious. Our golden ratio: 1 noodle bite = 2 corn kernels.

Also See: Cheap Microwave Ramen With Canned Peas – Quick & Easy!

What Do Microwave Noodles With Canned Corn Taste Like?

Imagine your usual ramen got a sweetness upgrade—like salty soy met caramelized corn at a flavor party. The kernels add pops of crunch against soft noodles. Timmy says it’s “breakfast cereal for dinner” (high praise). For a quick and easy meal, consider a ramen noodle recipe in the microwave. It’s a simple way to elevate your dining experience without much effort.

Left the corn undrained once? You’ll get soup. Perfected the drain-and-stir? It’s savory comfort with zero guilt. Pro move: Add sriracha for sweet heat that’ll make your nose tingle happily.

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s tackle keeping leftovers edible (because yes, sometimes even kids get full).

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Yes, leftovers exist (sometimes). Transfer cooled noodles to an airtight container—we repurpose old pasta sauce jars. Refrigerate up to 2 days. Freezing? Portion into muffin tins for single-serving pucks that reheat in 90 seconds. Just don’t tell Timmy I called his lunch a “puck.” To enjoy those leftover noodles fully, reheating them in the microwave is an easy option. Just add a splash of water, cover, and heat for a quick and tasty meal.

Reheating pro tip: Add 1 tbsp water before microwaving 60 seconds. Stir halfway to revive the noodles’ springiness. Our 2012 dorm hack? Cover with a damp paper towel—steam prevents rubbery noodles. Avoid Sarah’s “crunchy ice corn” phase by thawing frozen portions first. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add some cheap canned chicken and corn to elevate your instant noodles.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Mushy noodles: Overcooking is the culprit. Microwave in 30-second bursts next time. If it’s too late, fry leftovers in a pan—crispy noodle pancakes save the day. Timmy once dubbed them “ramen hash browns” and requested them weekly.

Soggy corn syndrome: Forgot to drain the can? Use a slotted spoon to rescue kernels. Spread noodles on paper towels for 1 minute—they’ll absorb excess moisture. My 2017 “broth puddle” disaster taught me this.

Microwave explosions: Always use a bowl twice the noodles’ volume. That time I used a coffee mug? Let’s just say our microwave needed a corn kernel exorcism. That’s why you should avoid using cheap microwave instant noodles with canned corn—they often cause clogs and mishaps.

Now that you’re a noodle-saving ninja, let’s jazz things up with budget-friendly twists even picky eaters will devour.

Now It’s Your Turn to Try!

We’ve covered everything from the basics to creative twists for your cheap microwave instant noodles with canned corn. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a midnight snack, this budget-friendly dish delivers flavor without the fuss.

Give it a whirl and let us know how it turned out! Got a favorite add-in we didn’t mention? We’re all ears—because even instant noodles deserve a little culinary adventure.