How to Make Ramen Higher in Protein: 10 Easy Ways

January 8, 2026 •

3 min read

Instant ramen is notoriously low in protein, with many packets offering only around 4–5 grams per serving. Fortunately, with a few simple and strategic additions, you can easily transform this humble meal and learn how to make ramen higher in protein for a more satisfying and nutritious dish.

Quick Summary

Boost the protein content of instant ramen effectively with various ingredients. Learn how simple additions like meat, eggs, and legumes can transform a basic bowl into a filling and healthy meal.

Key Points

Add Lean Meats: Incorporate shredded chicken, thinly sliced beef, or browned ground pork for a quick and significant protein increase.
Use Eggs for Richness: Cook a soft-boiled egg with a jammy yolk or whisk a raw egg directly into the hot broth for extra protein and a creamy texture.
Embrace Plant-Based Proteins: For vegetarian or vegan options, add crispy tofu cubes, shelled edamame, or stir in miso paste and nutritional yeast.
Upgrade Your Broth: Replace the instant seasoning packet with bone broth or a protein broth powder for a more flavorful and nutrient-dense base.
Get Creative with Toppings: Mix and match protein sources with vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, and carrots to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Add Nutty Flavor: A simple addition of peanut butter can create a creamy, protein-packed broth with a rich flavor.

Lean Meat Additions for a Protein Punch

Adding cooked meat is one of the most straightforward and effective ways to boost the protein content of your ramen. The key is to have the meat pre-cooked or utilize quick-cooking options to keep preparation time minimal.

1. Rotisserie or leftover chicken

Shredded rotisserie chicken is a meal-prepper's best friend. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and requires no extra effort besides shredding. Simply stir a handful into your hot ramen bowl to warm it through. A single chicken breast can add around 30 grams of protein, making your ramen a complete meal.

2. Thinly sliced beef or pork

For a richer, heartier ramen, add thinly sliced beef or pork. You can find pre-sliced options for stir-frying or hot pot, which cook in seconds. Toss the slices into the hot broth just before serving and let the residual heat cook them perfectly.

3. Ground meat

Ground meat, like pork, beef, or chicken, can be quickly browned in a pan before starting your ramen. Season it with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for extra flavor. Once cooked, add it to your finished bowl along with the noodles and broth.

Egg-cellent Options for Extra Protein

Eggs are a classic and versatile ramen topping that provide a significant protein boost. They can be prepared in several ways to suit your texture preference.

4. Soft-boiled or marinated egg

Known as ajitsuke tamago, a soft-boiled egg with a jammy yolk is a perfect ramen topping. Boil the egg for 6-7 minutes, then place it in an ice bath before peeling and slicing in half. For extra flavor, marinate the peeled egg in a mixture of soy sauce and mirin overnight.

5. Whisked-in egg

For a creamier broth, whisk a raw egg in a separate bowl. Once the noodles are cooked and the broth is still hot but not boiling, slowly pour in the whisked egg while stirring continuously. This creates a rich, creamy broth with cooked egg threads.

Plant-Based Proteins for a Nutritious Twist

If you prefer vegetarian or vegan options, there are plenty of excellent, protein-rich alternatives.

6. Tofu

Extra-firm tofu is an ideal plant-based protein for ramen. Press the tofu to remove excess water, cube it, and then air-fry or pan-fry until crispy. These crispy cubes hold their texture well in the hot broth.

7. Edamame

Shelled edamame beans are another easy addition. Simply steam or boil them and toss into the ramen bowl. They add a vibrant color, a pleasant bite, and a solid dose of protein.

8. Miso paste and nutritional yeast

For a creamy, umami-rich and protein-enhanced broth, whisk miso paste into the broth after cooking and before adding noodles. A tablespoon of nutritional yeast can also be stirred in to add a nutty, cheesy flavor and a little extra protein.

Comparison Table: High-Protein Add-ins


Protein Source	Preparation Method	Approximate Protein per Serving	Pros	Cons
Rotisserie Chicken	Shredded and added directly	~20-30g	Fast, flavorful, convenient	May contain higher sodium
Soft-Boiled Egg	Cooked 6-7 mins, peeled	~6g	Classic topping, adds richness	Smallest protein boost on this list
Crispy Tofu	Pressed, cubed, pan/air-fried	~10-15g	Vegan, versatile, great texture	Requires prep, potential for sogginess
Ground Pork	Browned in pan	~15-20g	Rich flavor, filling, customizable	Higher fat content, longer prep
Shelled Edamame	Steamed or boiled	~8-10g	Quick, vegan, adds fiber	Can alter texture, less traditional

Other Quick Protein Hacks

9. Bone broth base

Discard the high-sodium flavor packet and replace it with a quality chicken or beef bone broth. This instantly provides more protein, collagen, and flavor. You can also find protein broth powders for an even quicker solution.

10. Peanut butter sauce

For a creamy and nutty protein boost, whisk a tablespoon of peanut butter and a dash of soy sauce into your broth. This creates a rich, satay-style sauce that pairs well with shredded chicken or tofu.

Conclusion

Transforming instant ramen from a simple snack into a high-protein, nutrient-rich meal is both easy and rewarding. By incorporating readily available ingredients like meat, eggs, or plant-based proteins, you can significantly enhance its nutritional value and make it a more satisfying dish. Whether you choose a classic soft-boiled egg, crispy tofu cubes, or a rich bone broth base, these simple upgrades offer endless possibilities for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Feel free to mix and match different protein sources and vegetables to create a custom ramen bowl tailored to your taste and nutritional needs. For more ideas and recipes, explore resources from Serious Eats on elevating your instant ramen.

Frequently Asked Questions

The fastest way is to stir in pre-cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken or add a handful of shelled edamame beans to the hot broth. Another speedy option is whisking in a raw egg or using protein broth powder.

Yes, you can use specialized protein broth powders, which are designed to mix well and add flavor. However, regular protein powders (like whey or plant-based) can clump or alter the texture and taste in an undesirable way, so this is generally not recommended.

Excellent vegetarian protein sources include crispy pan-fried tofu, shelled edamame, hard-boiled or soft-boiled eggs, and a creamy miso broth enriched with nutritional yeast.

For a perfect soft-boiled egg, boil it separately for 6-7 minutes and then place it in an ice bath before peeling. If you want a poached egg, crack it directly into the simmering broth and cook for 2-3 minutes.

The seasoning packet is high in sodium and additives. For a healthier, higher-protein ramen, it is best to discard the packet and use a low-sodium chicken or beef bone broth as your base.

Add a variety of vegetables like shredded carrots, bok choy, spinach, and mushrooms. Garnish with fresh scallions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor and nutrients.

Yes, leftover steak is an excellent protein addition. Simply slice it thinly and add it to the hot broth for a few moments to warm it through. This saves time and minimizes food waste.