Noodle Journey Episode 62: Samyang Buldak Quattro Cheese Ramen

I’m following up my review of the regular Buldak Cheese with this one, Buldak Quattro Cheese. After getting radio silence online when I asked others what the difference was between the two, I’m taking it upon myself to compare them directly. My hope is that this one turns up the cheese in both flavor and texture.

Like the others in the line, this is widely available for about $2 per pack or $7–10 for a five-pack. I picked mine up for $7.49 at a local Asian grocery store, but availability may vary. This variety contains the usual Buldak noodles, a cheese-enhanced sauce packet (which drops the usual curry spices but adds liquid cheese and skim milk), and a powder packet with four powdered cheeses: mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, and camembert. The sodium level is very high at 1,920mg (83% daily value), so plan accordingly. It appears to be vegetarian and is labeled halal.

Noodles:
These are the classic thick, chewy Samyang Buldak noodles I’ve come to love. Thankfully, they haven’t changed a thing for this version. The texture is exactly what I hoped for and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• 8/10

Spiciness:
This is noticeably milder than most other Buldak varieties. It feels like a deliberate reduction in chili content more so than just the cheese muting the heat. I’d still rank it above a medium spice level, but it’s much more approachable than the original or Cheese Buldak. Great choice if you’re spice-curious but not spice-proof.
• 6/10

Overall:
This is exactly the cheesy indulgence I was hoping the original Cheese Buldak would be. The flavor is rich, creamy, and loaded with actual cheese taste. It’s no longer a suggestion of cheese, but rather an actual onslaught of it. The milder heat allows the cheese to shine, while additional flavors like onion, garlic, and a smoky hint (possibly paprika) round it out terrifically. You still get that signature sweet-and-salty Buldak profile, minus the usual curry. The lack of sesame seeds or seaweed is a bit of a letdown, but honestly, the sauce is strong enough to carry the dish on its own. Altogether, this feels like a grown-up mac and cheese with a serious kick. It might be my new favorite Buldak flavor, second only to the Carbonara. If you want high spice with a hint of cheese, go for the regular Cheese version. But if you’re craving bold, creamy cheese with a more manageable burn, this is the one to beat.
• 9/10