Korean Spicy Ramen Noodles with Cheese

These Korean spicy ramen noodles are the ultimate quick and comforting meal. Ready in just 5 minutes, this one-pan noodle dish is spicy, cheesy, and so satisfying. With gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and melty mozzarella, this dish hits all the right flavor notes — bold, savory, and just the right amount of heat. Top it with a fried egg and green onions for a simple yet delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Just 5 minutes from start to finish — perfect for busy weeknights or lazy lunches.

One-Pan Wonder: The noodles cook directly in the sauce, making cleanup a breeze.
Bold Flavor: Gochujang brings spicy, tangy, sweet, and savory flavor all in one spoonful.
Cheesy Comfort: Mozzarella adds a creamy, melty texture that balances the heat beautifully.

Pantry-Friendly: You probably have most of the ingredients already!

Ingredients

See the recipe card below for measurements.

Ramen noodles – Use a pack of instant ramen, but skip the seasoning packet.
Sesame oil – For toasty, nutty depth.
Garlic – Freshly grated or minced.
Gochujang – Korean fermented chili paste that adds heat, sweetness, and umami.
Soy sauce – Brings salty, umami-rich flavor.
Honey – Just a touch balances the spice and rounds out the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese – Melts into the noodles for a creamy, cheesy finish.

To garnish:

Fried egg
Spring onion (scallion), finely sliced
Sesame seeds

How to Make Korean Spicy Ramen Noodles

Step 1 – Sauté Aromatics:
Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add grated garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 2 – Add the Gochujang:
Stir in the gochujang and fry for another minute to release the flavors.

Step 3 – Cook the Noodles in the Sauce:
Pour in the water and add the ramen noodles directly into the pan. Flip and stir the noodles occasionally as they soften and cook through.

Step 4 – Season the Sauce:
Once the noodles are cooked, add soy sauce and a squeeze of honey. Stir to combine.

Step 5 – Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle in the grated mozzarella and stir until it melts into the noodles, creating a rich, creamy sauce.

Step 6 – Serve and Top:
Transfer to a bowl and top with a fried egg, spring onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Recipe Tips

Taste as You Go: Feel free to adjust the gochujang, soy sauce, or honey to your preference. Add chili flakes for extra heat!
Don’t Overdo the Water: Add just enough water to cook the noodles — they’ll absorb the liquid and thicken the sauce.
Watch the Cheese: Mozzarella is mild and melts beautifully. If using cheddar or another cheese, reduce the quantity slightly to keep it balanced.

Ingredient Substitutions

Mozzarella: Cheddar, red Leicester, or gruyere work too, but use less due to their stronger flavors.
Honey: Swap in a pinch of sugar if you don’t have honey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different noodles?
Yes! Udon, soba, or even rice noodles will work — just adjust cooking time as needed.

Where can I buy gochujang?
Most Asian grocery stores carry it, and it’s widely available online. Look for it in the international aisle of larger supermarkets too.

More Noodle Recipes to Try

Quick Curry Udon Noodles – Creamy, cozy, and ready fast

Wagamama Pad Thai – A fan favorite
Scissor Cut Noodles with Chili Oil – Homemade, chewy, and fun
Easy Pork Ramen – For brothy noodle lovers

Sesame Chicken Udon Noodles – Perfect weeknight comfort

Made This Recipe?

If you tried this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went! Leave a comment with your review and tag me on Instagram @desertislanddishes so I can see your cheesy ramen creations!