Add the ramen noodles and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to break them up. Drain and run cold water over them to stop the cooking process, drain well, and set aside.
6 ounces ramen noodles
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring constantly for 30 seconds.
3 cloves garlic
Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute or until bubbling.
3 tablespoons soy sauce, 3 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Add the noodles to the pan and coat in the sauce, I find using a pair of tongs helps for this step.
Push the noodles to one side of the skillet. Crack an egg and scramble it right in the pan; mix with the noodles.
1 large egg
Place on your serving plate and top with scallions and everything but the bagel seasoning if using, serve immediately.
thinly sliced scallions to serve, everything but the bagel seasoning to serve
Notes
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Watch those instant ramen noodles carefully, especially if you like them al dente. A mushy noodle can ruin all your hard work!
Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to add or reduce red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance. If you’re a spicy food lover, add more chili flakes or even a teaspoon of sambal oelek.
Play with Sauces: A bit of tbsp soy sauce, tablespoon fish sauce, or a dash of lime juice can instantly change the flavor. Experiment to find your favorite combination.
Melt Butter Slowly: Using medium-high heat can scorch your butter quickly. Keep it at a medium heat to maintain that sweet, nutty flavor.
Make it Creamy: Adding a spoonful of Japanese mayo or cream cheese can turn this into a luxuriously creamy dish.
Keep an Eye on the Pan: The sugar in the sauce can burn if left unattended. Stir often, especially once you add in the brown sugar.