Sticking to a budget can be tough, especially when it comes to groceries. Between rising food costs and busy schedules, it's easy to fall back on quick, convenient options.
But who says those options can't be delicious and affordable too?
Enter the budget-friendly meal hero: instant ramen. Although, have you ever gotten tired of the same old flavors? Check out these surprising limited-edition Cup Noodles flavors available now, and ramen-inspired meal hacks to tackle high grocery costs.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!1 <p>See website for details.</p>
With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!
This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.
Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.
Apply for a Discover Cashback Checking account today
Cup Noodles gets bold with Everything Bagel flavor
Cup Noodles is shaking things up with their latest creation — Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese flavored ramen.
Yep, you read that right. This unique concoction combines the classic "everything" seasoning with a creamy sauce, offering a savory twist on your favorite morning bagel and retails for $1.18 per cup.
Breakfast Ramen makes a comeback
Cup Noodles isn't just going all out on savory flavors. They're also bringing back last year’s Breakfast Ramen flavor, which is covered in sauce that tastes like “breakfast flavors including fluffy pancakes, sweet maple syrup, and hearty sausage and eggs," according to Nissin Foods.
Both flavors will be available exclusively at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com for a limited time starting April 2.
Cup Noodles' new flavors spark debate
The internet is buzzing with mixed reactions to Cup Noodles' latest limited-edition flavors. On Reddit, users expressed a range of emotions, from surprise to disappointment.
One user, Specialist_Ad0 questioned if it was real saying, “Omg this is real? I thought it was an April fools prank.”
Redditor Taniamorse85 offered a first-hand account, “I just tried the Everything Bagel one, and I was pretty disappointed. Plenty of poppy seeds, and I think I got an oniony taste. But, I didn't taste anything resembling cream cheese.”
However, the Breakfast Ramen seems to be finding fans. Reddit user Octolops said, “Found these at my Walmart. Have only tried the breakfast one. Reminds me of like a McGriddle but in ramen form. A bit odd, but not bad at all.”
Redditor ZantetsukensShadow gave the Breakfast Ramen a high rating, “Breakfast was like 9/10 for me. I added an egg and the breakfastness really came together. Everything bagel was so so like 4/10. It had a lot of poppy seeds. They nailed the seasoning but the cream cheese part was muted”
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Beyond the flavors: Unlock ramen's budget-friendly potential
These limited-edition flavors might seem strange, but they could hold the key to saving you money and adding some excitement to your meals.
Here are four delicious dinner hacks to transform your instant ramen into a satisfying and budget-friendly feast:
- Got leftover shredded chicken, tofu, or cooked beans? Toss them into your ramen for a protein boost and added texture.
- Saute chopped sausage or chorizo in a pan before adding your ramen broth. This adds a smoky depth and richness to the dish.
- Cook your ramen as usual, then whisk a beaten egg into the broth just before serving for a richer, egg drop soup-like experience.
- Don't just use the broth. Cook your ramen noodles according to package directions, then drain and use them in a stir-fry with your favorite vegetables and protein.
Bottom line
So, the next time you're looking for a quick and affordable meal, ditch the bland and embrace the wacky. By getting creative in the kitchen and utilizing these budget-friendly hacks, you can transform your instant ramen into a delicious meal, all while saving money on groceries.
Editor's Note: Generative AI tools helped write this story.
Trending Stories
Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Current Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Benefits
- Low spend threshold for its welcome offer — $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Cell phone protection benefit (subject to a $25 deductible)
- Can redeem rewards at an ATM for literal cash
Drawbacks
- Foreign transaction fee of 3%
- No bonus categories
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Subscribe Today
Want extra-cash moves to come right to you?
Stop browsing endlessly. Get proven ways to earn pocket money, help cover rent, and crush your debt — sent to your inbox daily.