The Global Vegetarian

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Spicy Cheesy Corn Noodles: Quick & Creamy Asian-Inspired Comfort Food

Looking for a quick, spicy, and cheesy noodle dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes? These Spicy Cheesy Corn Noodles are the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors with an Asian twist! Chow mein noodles are cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich gochujang sauce with sautéed onions, garlic, and sweet corn. A splash of heavy cream adds a luscious texture, while melted mozzarella gives it a cheesy finish that makes every bite irresistible. This vegetarian dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also great for meal prep or packed lunches, as it tastes just as delicious cold. Plus, you can customize it by adding more veggies to suit your taste. With its spicy kick and creamy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Happy Cooking!

Servings: 5-6 servings

Prep Time: 10-15 mins

Cooking Time: 10-15 mins

Total Time: 20-30 mins

Ingredients: 

  • 12-14 oz noodles of your choice; I used chowmein noodles

  • 1.5 tbsp chili oil

  • 1/2-1 tbsp butter

  • 1/2 cup chopped onions; I used a mix of white and red onions

  • 3-4 scallions chopped; whites and greens divided

  • 4-6 cloves of garlic minced

  • 1-1.25 cup corn kernels

  • 1 tsp Salt as per taste

  • 1/2 tsp white pepper

  • 1/2 tsp Ajinomoto; optional

  • 1/2-1 tsp chili flakes, ideally use gochugaru

  • 1/3 cup gochujang

  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce

  • 1 tsp vinegar

  • 3-4 Tbsp noodle water

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

  • 3-4 slices of mozzarella cheese

Directions: 

  1. Boil noodles as per packet instructions. Strain and keep them aside. Make sure to save the noodle water.

  2. Put a pan on low-medium heat and add chili oil and butter when warm.

  3. Add onions and the whites of the scallions and saute for 1-2 minutes.

  4. Add minced garlic and saute everything till fragrant, it will take 3-4 mins.

  5. Add corn kernels and mix well. Let it cook for 1 minute.

  6. Add salt, pepper, Ajinomoto, chili flakes, gochujang, and soy sauce. Mix and cook for 3-4 minutes.

  7. When it is cooked well, add the vinegar and 2 tbsp of noodle water. Mix well and then add the heavy cream. Mix well and cook on low till it comes to a simmer.

  8. Add noodles and toss them in the sauce. Add 1-3 tbsp of noodle water depending on the consistency you like. Don’t overcook, just mix well and cook till they are coated well.

  9. Top the noodles with the greens of the scallions and mozzarella cheese slices.

  10. Turn the heat to the lowest setting and cover the pan with the lid. Let it sit covered for 2-3 minutes till it is melted.

  11. Turn off the heat and remove the lid. Mix it well till combined and the cheese is incorporated into the noodles.

  12. Serve warm but it also tastes good cold!

Notes/Tips:

  • You can use any noodles you like. I like chow mein or lo-mein noodles

  • Use the chili oil recipe linked above for the best flavor!

  • Ideally, use mozzarella cheese since it melts well.

  • If you like it spicier add more chili flakes.

  • Don’t overcook the noodles when you toss them or it will get soggy as the cheese melts.

  • You can definitely add more veggies if you want!