Easy Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole
Why This Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole Will Be Your New Obsession
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, gooey cheese, and the fiery kick of Korean spice, then this Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole is about to become your go-to comfort food. It takes everything you love about spicy Korean buldak (fire chicken) and levels it up with cheesy, creamy goodness baked into a satisfying, shareable dish.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys a little heat with their cheesy carbs. It’s quick to assemble, customizable with whatever protein or veggies you have on hand, and ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or even a cozy night in.
Plus, you only need a few pantry staples and a pack or two of your favorite Buldak ramen to bring this casserole to life. Whether you’re a college student looking for a budget-friendly meal or a foodie craving a spicy, cheesy fusion dish, this one is a winner.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make a satisfying, bubbling Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole. This recipe serves 4, but you can easily double it for a crowd.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 packs Samyang Buldak Hot Chicken Ramen (any flavor, like Original or 2x Spicy)
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or grilled works well)
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup milk (any kind; adjust for creaminess)
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
- ¼ cup corn kernels
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- Soft-boiled eggs (for topping)
- Furikake or sesame seeds, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ramen Noodles
Boil the ramen noodles according to the package instructions—but only cook them for 2 minutes (they should still be slightly undercooked). Drain the noodles and reserve the sauce packets. You don’t want mushy noodles later when the casserole bakes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- The Buldak ramen sauce packets
- Sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and milk
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper
Mix until smooth and creamy. This sauce will coat the noodles and bake into a rich, spicy base.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole
Add the slightly undercooked noodles to the sauce mixture. Then fold in the:
- Cooked chicken
- 1 cup of mozzarella
- Cheddar cheese
- Optional add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, corn, or bell pepper
Stir until everything is evenly coated and cheesy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the cheesy ramen mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
Top with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of green onions.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with slightly golden edges.
For an extra crispy top, broil on high for 2–3 minutes at the end—but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with:
- More sliced green onions
- A sprinkle of furikake or toasted sesame seeds
- A soft-boiled or poached egg on top for extra richness
Tips and Tricks for the Best Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole
1. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
Since the casserole bakes in the oven, slightly undercooking the noodles at first prevents them from becoming too soft later. You want that perfect al dente bite after baking.
2. Adjust the Heat
Buldak ramen is known for its spiciness. If you’re spice-sensitive:
- Use only half of the sauce packet
- Add more sour cream or milk to tone it down
- Mix in a mild cheese like Monterey Jack to balance the heat
3. Use Leftover Chicken
Rotisserie chicken or any leftover grilled/baked chicken works beautifully here. You can even use ground chicken, turkey, or cooked tofu for a vegetarian twist.
4. Swap the Protein
Not a fan of chicken? Try:
- Ground beef for a Tex-Mex feel
- Shrimp for a seafood variation
- Plant-based meat crumbles to keep it vegetarian
5. Cheese Combinations
Mozzarella makes it melty, cheddar adds sharpness, but feel free to mix in:
- Pepper Jack for heat
- Gouda for creaminess
- Parmesan on top for a crispy finish
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cream cheese: Swap with ricotta or more sour cream if needed
- Mayonnaise: Use plain yogurt or omit for a lighter dish
- Milk: Use oat milk, almond milk, or even evaporated milk for richness
- Sour cream: Greek yogurt makes a great substitute and adds tang
How to Store and Reheat
Storing
Let the casserole cool completely before covering with foil or transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole! Let it cool, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
- Oven: Reheat covered at 350°F for 15–20 minutes
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between
- Add a splash of milk or broth if it looks dry
Variations on Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole
Korean BBQ Style
Replace the chicken with bulgogi beef and top with kimchi after baking for extra zing.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the chicken and bulk it up with roasted tofu, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.
Mac & Cheese Fusion
Stir in elbow macaroni or shells in place of ramen noodles. Use a béchamel base mixed with the buldak sauce for a rich hybrid dish.
Extra-Crunch Topping
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and parmesan, then sprinkle on top before baking for a crispy, cheesy finish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 generous portions
Conclusion: Spicy, Cheesy, and Oh-So-Satisfying
This Cheesy Buldak Ramen Casserole is the ultimate fusion of Korean heat and Western comfort. It’s cheesy, spicy, customizable, and perfect for when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your roommates, or your family, this dish is sure to become a repeat favorite.
So grab those ramen packets, raid the fridge, and whip up this bubbling casserole tonight. Your taste buds will thank you.
