STEP 1:

Add ramen noodles, water, and a pinch of salt to a shallow saucepan. Turn the heat on medium-high and bring to a boil. Let the noodles boil for a minute, and then use a fork or tongs to gently flip the noodles over. Do this 1-2 more times until the noodles are pliable. Use your fork or tongs to separate the noodles and continue to cook until noodles are soft and the liquid has reduced.

STEP 2:

Once liquid has been reduced, add butter and black pepper. IF there isn't about 1/4 cup of pasta water, add enough water to equal that and boil for 30 seconds or so to release a little bit more starch. Toss to combine. Remove from heat. While tossing again, SLOWLY sprinkle in the cheese. Continue to toss until cheese has melted. Season with salt. If the pasta sauce needs to be loosened up, add a few tablespoons of warm water.