Buldak Ramen Recipe – Spicy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

If you love spicy Korean food, you’ve probably heard of Buldak Ramen Recipe, also known as Fire Noodles. Made famous by the Samyang Buldak instant noodles, this dish is known for its intense heat, rich flavors, and addictively spicy sauce. But did you know you can make your own homemade Buldak Ramen from scratch?

This easy Buldak Ramen recipe will show you how to recreate the famous fiery noodles at home, using simple ingredients like Korean gochugaru (chili flakes), gochujang (chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and honey for the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. Plus, you can customize it by adjusting the spice level, adding cheese, or mixing in extra proteins like chicken or egg.

Looking for more spicy and bold noodle dishes? Try these Trader Joe’s Thai Noodle Recipes for another delicious, flavorful meal option.

Ingredients for Homemade Buldak Ramen Recipe

Making Buldak Ramen at home allows you to control the spice level, ingredients, and flavors while still enjoying the signature fiery, smoky, and slightly sweet taste of Korean “fire chicken” noodles.

1. Ramen Noodles

• Instant ramen noodles – Choose thicker noodles for better texture.
• Fresh or frozen ramen noodles – Provides a chewier bite and absorbs sauce well.

2. Spicy Buldak Sauce Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) – Adds deep, spicy-sweet heat.
• 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) – Enhances spice and smoky flavor.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Provides umami depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar) – Balances the spice with a hint of sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil – Adds nuttiness and aroma.
• ¼ cup chicken broth or water – Helps create a flavorful sauce base.

3. Optional Toppings & Add-Ins

• 1 soft-boiled egg – Creamy yolk balances the heat.
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds – Adds crunch and nuttiness.
• 1 green onion, sliced – Brings a mild, fresh contrast.
• ½ cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu – Makes it a protein-packed meal.
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese – Melts into the noodles for a creamy, spicy fusion.

With these bold and flavorful ingredients, you can make homemade Buldak Ramen that rivals the popular Samyang Buldak instant noodles while tailoring the spice and richness to your liking!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions of Buldak Ramen Recipe

Making homemade Buldak Ramen is quick and easy! Follow these steps to cook the noodles, prepare the spicy Buldak sauce, and combine everything for a fiery, flavorful dish.

1. Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the ramen noodles and cook according to the package instructions (about 2–3 minutes for instant noodles, 4–5 minutes for fresh noodles).
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, then set aside.

Tip: If you want extra chewy noodles, slightly undercook them, as they will absorb more sauce later.

2. Make the Spicy Buldak Ramen Recipe Sauce

1. In a small pan over medium heat, add:
   • 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
   • 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
   • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar)
   • ½ teaspoon sesame oil
   • ¼ cup chicken broth or water
2. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Taste and adjust spice or sweetness as needed.

Tip: For an even richer sauce, add ½ tablespoon butter for a creamy finish.

3. Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the spicy Buldak sauce.
2. Toss well over low heat for 1–2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.

Want the perfect egg topping? Check out this Jammy Eggs Recipe for a foolproof guide!

Tip: For extra cheesy Buldak Ramen, add ½ cup shredded mozzarella, cover the pan, and let it melt before serving.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the noodles to a serving bowl.
2. Top with your choice of:
   • Soft-boiled egg for creaminess.
   • Sesame seeds for crunch.
   • Sliced green onions for freshness.
   • Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
3. Mix everything together and enjoy your homemade spicy Buldak Ramen!

With its intense heat, smoky depth, and slightly sweet balance, this homemade Buldak Ramen is a perfect meal for spice lovers.

Customizing the Spice Level of Buldak Ramen Recipe

Buldak Ramen Recipe is known for its intense heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you want it extra fiery or milder, here’s how to customize the heat:

1. Reduce the Spice

• Use less gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) – Start with ½ teaspoon instead of 1 teaspoon.
• Cut down on gochujang (Korean chili paste) – Use ½ tablespoon instead of 1 tablespoon.
• Add more honey or sugar – A little extra sweetness balances the heat and rounds out the flavors.
• Increase soy sauce slightly – This enhances umami while reducing spiciness.

2. Make it Extra Spicy

• Add more gochugaru – Use 1½ teaspoons for an extra kick.
• Include fresh chili peppers – Thinly sliced Thai chilies or jalapeños add fresh heat.
• Mix in chili oil or hot sauce – Drizzle with Korean chili oil (or Sriracha) for an added layer of spice.

3. Use Dairy to Cool the Heat

• Add shredded mozzarella cheese – It melts into the noodles, creating a creamy, mild balance.
• Stir in a splash of milk or cream – This helps tone down the spice.
• Top with a soft-boiled egg – The creamy yolk naturally cools the dish.

For another bold seasoning blend, try this Pot Roast Seasoning Recipe to add extra umami to your dishes!

Tip: If serving multiple people, keep the spicy sauce separate and let each person mix in their preferred amount!

Tasty Variations of Buldak Ramen Recipe and Add-Ins

Make your homemade Buldak Ramen even more delicious by adding extra ingredients and creative twists. Here are some variations to try:

1. Cheesy Buldak Ramen (Korean Fire Noodles with Cheese)

• After tossing the noodles in the sauce, sprinkle ½ cup shredded mozzarella on top.
• Cover the pan for 1 minute until the cheese melts.
• Stir slightly and enjoy a creamy, spicy fusion!

Best for: Those who love spicy and cheesy flavor combinations.

2. Egg Drop Style Buldak Ramen

• After combining the noodles with the sauce, slowly drizzle in 1 beaten egg while stirring.
• Cook for 1 minute until the egg forms silky ribbons.

Best for: A softer texture and extra protein.

3. Grilled Chicken Buldak Ramen

• Grill or pan-fry ½ cup sliced chicken breast seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
• Add to the noodles for a protein-rich meal.

Best for: Those who want a heartier, protein-packed dish.

4. Veggie-Packed Buldak Ramen

• Stir-fry ½ cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or bok choy) before adding the noodles.
• Toss everything together for a nutrient-rich version.

Best for: A balanced, colorful meal with extra texture.

With these customization options and tasty add-ins, you can create your perfect version of Buldak Ramen.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Buldak Ramen Recipe

Buldak Ramen is bold, spicy, and flavorful, so pairing it with refreshing or savory sides can help balance the heat and enhance your meal. Here are the best side dishes to serve with your homemade fire noodles:

1. Korean Banchan (Traditional Side Dishes)

Korean meals are often served with small, flavorful side dishes called banchan. These pair perfectly with spicy ramen:

• Kimchi – The tangy, fermented flavor adds depth and crunch.
• Soy Sauce Marinated Eggs (Mayak Eggs) – Soft-boiled eggs soaked in a sweet and salty sauce.
• Korean Stir-Fried Fish Cakes (Eomuk Bokkeum) – Slightly sweet and savory, they complement spicy flavors.

2. Pickled Radish (Danmuji)

• This sweet, tangy, and crunchy side dish helps cool down the spice.
• You can find it in Korean grocery stores or make your own by pickling daikon radish in vinegar, sugar, and salt.

Best for: Refreshing contrast to the heat of Buldak Ramen.

3. Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)

• Made with crisp cucumbers, garlic, sesame oil, and a touch of chili flakes, this side dish is light, cooling, and slightly spicy.
• The freshness and crunch help cleanse the palate between bites of fiery noodles.

Best for: A refreshing, hydrating side to balance the spice.

4. Steamed or Fried Dumplings (Mandu)

• Korean dumplings filled with meat or vegetables make a savory, filling side.
• Serve them steamed for a softer texture or pan-fried for a crispy contrast.

Best for: A hearty side dish that pairs well with ramen.

5. Cold Soybean Sprout Salad (Kongnamul Muchim)

• A light, nutty, and slightly salty Korean side made with blanched soybean sprouts, sesame oil, and garlic.
• This dish adds crunch and freshness while complementing the ramen’s bold flavors.

Best for: A healthy and mild side that doesn’t overpower the noodles.

Looking for the perfect side dish? Check out this Jammy Eggs Recipe for step-by-step instructions!

How to Store and Reheat Buldak Ramen Recipe

If you have leftovers, it’s important to store and reheat them properly to maintain the best flavor and texture.

1. Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftover noodles and sauce separately in airtight containers.
• Noodles: Toss them with a little sesame oil before storing to prevent sticking.
• Sauce: Store in a small container and mix with the noodles when reheating.
• Shelf Life: Best consumed within 2 days for the freshest taste.

Tip: Keeping the sauce separate prevents the noodles from absorbing all the liquid and getting mushy.

2. Best Ways to Reheat Buldak Ramen

On the Stovetop (Best Method)

1. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of broth or water.
2. Add the noodles and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, mixing well with the sauce.
3. If adding cheese, cover the pan for 30 seconds to let it melt.

In the Microwave (Quick Method)

1. Place the noodles in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add 1–2 tablespoons of water or broth to prevent dryness.
3. Cover loosely and microwave for 30–45 seconds, then stir. Repeat if needed.

Tip: For extra freshness, toss in chopped green onions or sesame seeds after reheating.

FAQs for Buldak Ramen Recipe

1. Can I make Buldak Ramen less spicy?

Yes! If you prefer a milder version, try these adjustments:

• Reduce the gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to ½ teaspoon or omit it.
• Use less gochujang (Korean chili paste)—start with ½ tablespoon instead of a full tablespoon.
• Add more honey or soy sauce to balance the heat.
• Mix in milk or cheese for a creamier, less intense spice level.

2. What type of noodles work best for Buldak Ramen?

• Instant ramen noodles – Quick and easy, ideal for convenience.
• Fresh or frozen ramen noodles – Chewier and more authentic in texture.
• Udon noodles – A thicker option that soaks up the sauce well.
• Rice noodles – A gluten-free alternative that works great with the spicy sauce.

3. How can I make Buldak Ramen vegetarian?

• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or water.
• Use tofu or mushrooms instead of meat for protein.
• Add extra vegetables like bok choy, bell peppers, or carrots.
• Swap out fish-based ingredients (such as some gochujang brands) for a fully plant-based version.

Conclusion

Buldak Ramen Recipe is the perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and savory sweetness, making it a favorite among spicy food lovers. Whether you enjoy it extra fiery, milder, cheesy, or packed with veggies, this customizable homemade version lets you control the spice and flavors to suit your taste.

Quick and easy to make
Customizable spice levels and add-ins
Pairs well with classic Korean side dishes

Now it’s time to try making your own Buldak Ramen at home! Whether you enjoy it with gooey melted cheese, grilled chicken, or a refreshing cucumber salad, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your spicy cravings. Let me know how you like it!