Craving a warm bowl of ramen without the takeout price tag? This microwave recipe delivers savory comfort in under 5 minutes – and uses pantry staples you likely already own.
Canned mushrooms add earthy flavor without the prep work, and yes, they’re perfectly safe to microwave. (No dishwashing battles required!)
We’ll walk you through microwave hacks, flavor boosts, and how to dodge common pitfalls for a bowl that’s slurp-worthy every time.
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Quick and Cheap Microwave Ramen with Canned Mushrooms
Course: Main DishCuisine: Asian2
5
minutes5
minutes350
kcal10
minutesRamen is a go-to meal for anyone looking for something quick and cheap. By adding canned mushrooms, you elevate this simple dish into a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for those busy days or late-night cravings, this recipe is not only quick but also customizable to suit your taste.
Ingredients
of instant ramen noodles
of sliced mushrooms drained
of water
soy sauce
sesame oil
garlic powder
onion powder
green onions optional for garnish
egg . optional for serving
Directions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups of water and 2 packets of instant ramen noodles, Make sure the noodles are submerged in water, Microwave on high for 3 minutes, Carefully stir the noodles to break them apart and add 1 can of sliced mushrooms, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and onion powder, Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for an additional 2 minutes, After cooking, stir the ramen and let it sit for 1 minute to cool slightly, Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a boiled egg if desired..
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preference. You can also add additional vegetables like frozen peas or corn to make it even heartier. This recipe is highly customizable, so add in your favorite proteins or sauces to fit your taste.
Why Use Canned Mushrooms in Microwave Ramen?
My kids Sarah and Timmy once declared fresh mushrooms “slimy villains,” but canned ones? They’ll fish every last piece out of their ramen. Turns out, canned mushrooms are pantry superheroes—pre-chopped, pre-cooked, and ready to dive straight into your broth. Plus, they cost about a third of fresh varieties. (Aunt Clarice taught me that math during a chaotic summer camp meal prep!) With their convenience and affordability, canned mushrooms can easily be integrated into quick meals, like a microwave egg dish. Cheap microwave egg recipes featuring canned diced mushrooms make for a delicious and hassle-free breakfast option.
Convenience and Cost-effectiveness
No slicing, no rinsing, no fuss. Canned mushrooms skip the prep work, which is clutch when you’re microwaving ramen between Zoom meetings or soccer practice. A 4-ounce can averages $1.25, while fresh mushrooms cost double—and spoil faster. Bonus: they’re shelf-stable for years. For an easy meal, consider adding cheap microwave hot dogs and canned diced mushrooms together to create a tasty dish. This combination offers a quick, affordable option that’s perfect for busy days.
Just drain the liquid, and they’re ready. Pro tip from Aunt Clarice: save that brine! Stir a teaspoon into your broth for an umami kick.
Microwave-safe Mushroom Options
Not all cans are microwave-friendly. Opt for plain canned mushrooms in water (avoid oil-packed—they can splatter). Brands like Del Monte or Great Value work well.
Transfer mushrooms to a microwave-safe bowl first. Metal lids? Nope. Aunt Clarice learned this the hard way at summer camp when her “ramen surprise” sparked like a Fourth of July firework.
What Does Canned Mushroom Ramen Taste Like?
Imagine savory broth with earthy, almost meaty notes—like a cozy hug for your taste buds. The mushrooms soften further in the microwave, blending seamlessly with the noodles. Sarah calls it “soupier pizza.” (We’ll take it.) A quick and easy microwave soup recipe can transform simple ingredients into a delightful meal. Whether you’re in a rush or just looking for comfort food, preparing soup this way is both efficient and satisfying.
Savory Flavor Profile
Canned mushrooms pack a punch of glutamates—natural compounds that create umami depth. They amplify the ramen seasoning packet’s salty-sweet flavors. Add a dash of soy sauce or garlic powder if you’re feeling fancy. For a complete meal, consider mixing in some cheap microwave ramen and canned mixed vegetables. This combination not only adds nutrition but also enhances the overall taste of your dish.
Timmy insists it tastes “expensive,” which is high praise from a kid who once traded his sandwich for a Pokémon card.
Texture Differences Between Fresh and Canned Mushrooms
Fresh mushrooms stay firm when cooked; canned ones turn tender-chewy. Think al dente pasta versus well-steamed veggies. It’s a textural trade-off, but in brothy ramen, it works. For an easy meal upgrade, consider adding lazy microwave pre-cooked bacon and canned diced mushrooms. This combo not only enhances flavor but also offers a convenient way to enjoy a hearty dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Aunt Clarice argues it’s nostalgia: “They taste like my dorm days—soft, salty, and survivalist-chic.”
Ready to build your bowl? Let’s raid the pantry for ingredients that’ll make even college-you jealous.
Ingredients for Microwave Ramen With Canned Mushrooms
Grab these basics for your ramen remix. Bonus points if they’re already lurking in your cabinets! A few simple additions can take your instant noodles from plain to incredible in just two minutes. Think along the lines of a quick protein boost or fresh veggies to elevate your dish.
Essential Ingredients
You’ll need 1 package instant ramen (any flavor—we’re rebels), 1 can (4 oz) sliced mushrooms, and water. Aunt Clarice once used chicken bouillon cubes instead of the seasoning packet during a pantry purge. “Improvise, adapt, eat!” she declared. Adding canned diced mushrooms to your microwave ramen not only boosts the flavor but also makes it a heartier meal, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on a budget.
Budget-friendly Substitutes and Alternatives
No ramen? Swap in rice noodles ($0.99 packs at dollar stores). Out of canned mushrooms? Try canned bamboo shoots ($1.19) or beansprouts. Tap water works, but broth adds depth. Canned peas can also be a great addition to your rice noodles, providing both flavor and nutrition. When looking for quick meals, cheap microwave instant noodles paired with canned peas create a satisfying dish in no time.
Sarah once used pickle juice instead of seasoning. We don’t recommend it. (Timmy still shudders.)
Optional Add-ins for Enhanced Flavor
Elevate your bowl with soy sauce (5 cents per dash), sriracha, or a soft-boiled egg. Leftover rotisserie chicken? Toss in shreds. Adding chicken can really enhance the flavor and protein content of your meal. For a delicious chicken recipe, consider combining it with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce for a wholesome dish.
Timmy’s “secret ingredient” is crushed Cheetos. We’ve agreed to respect his life choices.
Also See: Easy Microwave Cornbread From Scratch: No Mix Needed!
How to Make Microwave Ramen With Canned Mushrooms
Follow these steps for a bowl that’s faster than DoorDash. (And cheaper—no $5 delivery fee!)
Step 1: Prepare the Ramen Noodles in the Microwave
Break the ramen block into quarters in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 1.5 cups water. Microwave uncovered for 2 minutes. Stir gently. For a quick meal, a microwave ramen noodle recipe offers a convenient way to enjoy this dish anytime. Just a few simple steps can transform your ramen into a delicious bowl in minutes.
Watch for boil-overs! Aunt Clarice’s “ramen volcano” once required three paper towels and a vow of silence.
Step 2: Drain and Add Canned Mushrooms
Drain mushrooms thoroughly—no one wants swampy broth. Stir them into the noodles. Microwave 1 more minute. For a delicious and quick side dish, consider making microwave garlic butter mushrooms that enhance any meal.
Pro tip: Rinsing mushrooms reduces sodium by 35%. But if you’re salt-craving, skip it.
Step 3: Adjust Seasoning and Consistency
Mix in half the seasoning packet first. Taste. Too salty? Add 2 tbsp water. Bland? Sprinkle garlic powder.
Timmy’s Law: “Broth should coat the spoon, not drown it.” Aim for a clingy texture.
Step 4: Microwave Safety Tips for Perfect Texture
Use a paper towel over the bowl to prevent splatters. Let sit 30 seconds post-cooking—noodles absorb 20% more broth when you cook noodles in the microwave. For a quick and cheap meal, try adding some canned mushrooms to your microwave ramen.
Test the bowl’s rim temperature with your elbow (safer than fingers!). Aunt Clarice’s “hot bowl boogie” is still legendary.
Also See: Dill Sauce With Spring Herbs (Microwave Mix)
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even ramen pros stumble. Here’s how to nail it every time.
Overcooking the Noodles
Noodles turn mushy past 3 minutes total. Microwave in 30-second bursts after the 2-minute mark.
Sarah calls soggy ramen “sad spaghetti.” We call it compost bin material.
Managing Liquid Ratios
Too much water dilutes flavor. Too little creates salt licks. Use a measuring cup—1.5 cups is the sweet spot.
Timmy’s ratio mantra: “Broth hugs noodles, doesn’t waterboard them.” Words to live by.
Perfect ramen achieved? Let’s tackle keeping leftovers fresh (if any survive!).
Now It’s Your Turn to Try!
Microwave ramen with canned mushrooms is the ultimate lazy-day hack—fast, cheap, and surprisingly tasty. We love how the earthy mushrooms soak up that savory broth while keeping prep time under 5 minutes.
Got a twist on this recipe? Toss in some sriracha or a soft-boiled egg next time. Just don’t blame us when this becomes your go-to midnight snack (we’ve been there).
