I think cheese and pasta at the same time helps fend off the blob. Also, use a bigger pot than you think you need because the whisking and emulsifying get messy.
I make this and add baby spinach at the end (to wilt it) when you add the ramen to the butter and add the pasta water. I also add hot sauce and sometimes a fried or soft poached egg. So good! I’ve also used American cheese when in a pinch.