Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Buldak Ramen is a fiery, flavor-packed Korean noodle dish inspired by the popular instant version. It features chewy ramen noodles tossed in a spicy, sweet, and savory sauce made with gochujang and soy sauce, and topped with melty cheese for balance. Quick to make and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for spice lovers looking for a bold, comforting meal in under 20 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ramen noodlesgochujang (Korean red chili paste)soy saucebrown sugargarlic (minced)sesame oilmozzarella cheese (shredded)green onions (sliced)toasted sesame seedswater

directions

Boil the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the cooking water.

In a pan over medium heat, add sesame oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Mix until the sauce thickens and bubbles.

Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Add a little reserved noodle water if the sauce is too thick.

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and cover the pan for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese melts.

Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1-2 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chicken or tofu for extra protein.

Use rice cakes (tteok) along with noodles for added texture.

Mix in a fried egg or soft-boiled egg for richness.

Add vegetables like spinach, cabbage, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Buldak Ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Is Buldak Ramen very spicy?

Yes, it’s known for its intense heat, but you can adjust the amount of gochujang or add more cheese to mellow the spice.

Can I use instant ramen noodles?

Absolutely—just discard the seasoning packet and use the noodles as the base for this homemade sauce.

Is gochujang necessary?

Yes, it’s essential for the signature flavor, but in a pinch, you can try a mix of chili paste and miso.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetarian noodles and skip any meat or fish-based toppings.

What kind of cheese is best?

Mozzarella is ideal for its melty texture and mild flavor, but any melty cheese works.

Can I make it less sweet?

Reduce or omit the brown sugar if you prefer a spicier, less sweet version.

Do I have to melt the cheese?

No, but it balances the heat and adds creaminess—highly recommended.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce in advance for faster cooking later.

Can I add more sauce?

Yes, double the sauce ingredients for a saucier finish.

What if I don’t like sesame oil?

You can substitute with neutral oils like canola or vegetable, but sesame adds great depth.

Conclusion

Easy Buldak Ramen is the ultimate spicy comfort food that’s quick, customizable, and irresistibly bold. Whether you’re craving heat or just want a cozy bowl of cheesy noodles, this dish delivers with every bite. Perfect for late-night meals or quick lunches, it’s a recipe that’s sure to heat up your ramen routine.