Name: Cheese Tteokbokki: A Comforting Korean Snack You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 200 g Korean Rice Cakes (fresh or frozen varieties); 500 ml Dashi/Korean Soup Stock (for cooking the rice cakes); 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste) (adjust for spiciness); 1 tbsp Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes) (optional); 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar (to balance flavor); 1 tbsp Corn Syrup (can substitute with more sugar); 2 tbsp Soy Sauce; 2 cloves Minced Garlic (for flavor); 150 g Mozzarella Cheese (or any melting cheese); 1 tbsp Sesame Oil (for drizzling); 2 tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds (optional garnish); 2 tbsp Finely Chopped Scallions (optional garnish)

As I stood in my kitchen one bustling evening, the tantalizing scent of spicy gochujang danced through the air, whisking me back to the vibrant streets of Seoul. That’s when I decided to whip up a comforting plate of Cheese Tteokbokki, those beloved chewy Korean rice cakes smothered in rich, melted mozzarella. This egg-free dish not only satisfies your cravings in under 20 minutes, but it also offers a mouthwatering twist on traditional street food that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a late-night snack, this recipe is a versatile crowd-pleaser that can evolve with your favorite add-ins. Curious to see how you can make this savory sensation your own? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Cheese Tteokbokki So Appealing?

Instant Satisfaction: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is a quick fix for those snack cravings.

Chewy Delight: The texture of Korean rice cakes is irresistible, offering a unique chewiness that elevates your snacking experience.

Customizable Flavor: Easily adapt the recipe; from fish cakes to hard-boiled eggs, make it your own by experimenting with add-ins to suit every palate.

Melted Goodness: With gooey mozzarella on top, every bite is lovingly enveloped in rich, cheesy bliss—incredibly satisfying!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress guests who crave something different!

If you’re in the mood for something creamy with a twist, check out my Pimento Cheese Hash or the savory Honey Pepper Cheese for more cheesy delights!

Cheese Tteokbokki Ingredients

For the Rice Cakes
• Korean Rice Cakes – Provides chewy texture; use fresh or frozen varieties for convenience.
• Dashi/Korean Soup Stock – Adds essential umami flavor; it’s the heart of the dish, ensuring the rice cakes cook perfectly.

For the Sauce
• Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste) – Offers iconic spiciness and sweetness; adjust the amount to control heat levels.
• Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes) – Enhances flavor complexity; optional but recommended for a bit more spice.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the spicy notes of gochujang; critical for achieving the right taste.
• Corn Syrup – Adds sweetness and gives the sauce a glossy finish; can be swapped with more sugar if needed.
• Soy Sauce – Brings a depth of flavor and necessary saltiness to the sauce.
• Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors, enhancing its overall profile.

For the Topping
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melts delectably for a gooey topping; feel free to substitute with another melting cheese for different tastes.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty finish; drizzle for an extra layer of flavor at the end.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds & Finely Chopped Scallions – Optional garnishes that elevate presentation and add freshness.

Feel the warmth and comfort of Cheese Tteokbokki as you gather these ingredients. Ready to make this delicious dish come to life? Let’s keep cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese Tteokbokki

Step 1: Soak the Rice Cakes
If you’re using frozen rice cakes for your Cheese Tteokbokki, start by soaking them in warm water for 20–30 minutes to soften them. Fresh rice cakes can be used straight away. After soaking, drain them and set aside, ensuring they’re ready to absorb all the delicious flavors to come.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together gochujang, gochugaru, granulated sugar, corn syrup, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir until completely combined to form a smooth, vibrant sauce. The aroma should be tantalizing! Set this aside as we move on to cooking the rice cakes, as this sauce will add the kick we crave.

Step 3: Heat the Dashi Stock
In a large skillet, pour in the dashi or Korean soup stock and turn the heat to medium-high. Bring it to a gentle boil, which should take about 3–5 minutes. Once boiling, carefully add your softened rice cakes, stirring gently to ensure they’re evenly coated in the stock and warming through.

Step 4: Incorporate the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the prepared sauce to the skillet. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently for about 5–7 minutes, until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the rice cakes. The bright red hues and fragrant steam will fill your kitchen, promising a delightful meal!

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Center the rice cakes in the skillet and generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese over them. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2–3 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt perfectly into a gooey topping that will make your Cheese Tteokbokki irresistible!

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with a touch of sesame oil for extra flavor and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped scallions. Serve your Cheese Tteokbokki immediately while it’s hot, enjoying the rich, cheesy goodness and the chewy rice cakes that make this dish so special!

Cheese Tteokbokki Variations & Substitutions

Explore delightful ways to customize your Cheese Tteokbokki and elevate your homemade experience!

Seafood Boost: Add shrimp or squid along with the rice cakes for a delicious seafood twist.
Protein-Packed: Toss in sliced sausages or eomuk (fish cakes) to make it heartier and more filling.
Gourmet Cheese: Switch mozzarella for pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile and an extra kick.
Veggie Delight: Stir in bell peppers, tofu, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture contrast.
Extra Spice: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dollop of sriracha if you crave heat beyond gochujang.
Sweet Touch: Drizzle with honey or add a touch of maple syrup for a sweet contrast to the spicy sauce.
Creamy Alternative: For a richer flavor, blend in a bit of cream cheese with the mozzarella to create an ultra-creamy texture.
Unique Garnishes: Top with kimchi for an extra layer of flavor, or try finely chopped peanuts for a delightful crunch.

If you’re looking for ways to enjoy cheesy goodness, check out my delicious Italian Herb Cheese or indulge in a comforting plate of Grilled Cheese Burrito for more cheesy recipes!

What to Serve with Cheese Tteokbokki?

Experience the ultimate flavor harmony as you pair these delightful rice cakes with delicious side dishes and drinks.

Crispy Korean Fried Chicken: The crunch from this savory chicken dish complements the chewy tteokbokki, creating a satisfying contrast in texture.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: This bright, crunchy salad brings a cooling element to balance the heat of the dish, making each bite more enjoyable.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, steamed broccoli offers a vibrant touch and a healthful side that breaks through the richness of the tteokbokki.
Pickled Radish: Serve these tangy, sweet pickles on the side for a pop of flavor that refreshes your palate between bites.
Spicy Kimchi: The fermented flavors and spice of kimchi create a lively pairing, enhancing the savory depth of the tteokbokki beautifully.
Cold Soju or Beer: A chilled glass of soju or light beer is the perfect accompaniment, cutting through the richness and amplifying the overall experience.
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake: For dessert, this creamy treat offers a sweet, decadent finish that contrasts perfectly with the spicy tteokbokki, leaving you utterly satisfied.

Expert Tips for Cheese Tteokbokki

Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of gochujang or gochugaru. You can always add more later for extra heat.
Beware of Burning: Stir the sauce frequently while it cooks to prevent sticking and burning in the pan. A gentle touch goes a long way in keeping the dish perfect!
Best Cheese Pull: For the ultimate cheese pull experience, serve Cheese Tteokbokki immediately after cooking. Reheated cheese can lose its delightful ooey-gooey creaminess.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to enhance your dish by adding eomuk (fish cakes), hard-boiled eggs, or dumplings for a heartier meal.
Storage Guidelines: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, leftover Cheese Tteokbokki can be refrigerated. Just keep in mind the cheese texture may change upon reheating.

How to Store and Freeze Cheese Tteokbokki

Refrigerator: Store leftover Cheese Tteokbokki in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cheese may harden, so reheat gently.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Cheese Tteokbokki in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. It’s best to keep the sauce separate if possible.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or stock to help regain moisture.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Combine with rice cakes for a quicker cooking time when you’re ready to serve.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheese Tteokbokki are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your busy weeknights smoother! You can prepare the sauce (mixing gochujang, sugar, soy sauce, and garlic) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, soak and soften your rice cakes ahead of time, keeping them sealed in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat dashi stock, add the rice cakes and sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella on top. Cover to melt the cheese, and you’ll enjoy just as delicious a dish without the last-minute hustle!

Cheese Tteokbokki Recipe FAQs

What type of Korean rice cakes should I use?
For Cheese Tteokbokki, you can use either fresh or frozen Korean rice cakes. Fresh rice cakes are softer and don’t require any preparation, while frozen rice cakes should be soaked in warm water for 20-30 minutes to soften before cooking.

How should I store leftover Cheese Tteokbokki?
Leftover Cheese Tteokbokki should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheese may harden upon refrigeration, so be sure to reheat it gently on the stove or microwave to help restore some of its creamy texture.

Can I freeze Cheese Tteokbokki?
Absolutely! You can freeze Cheese Tteokbokki in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. It’s ideal to keep the sauce separate from the rice cakes if possible, as this helps maintain texture when reheating.

What if the sauce is too thick or thin?
If your sauce turns out too thick, you can add a splash of water or dashi stock while cooking to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, continue cooking for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency, making sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.

Are there any dietary considerations for Cheese Tteokbokki?
Yes! Cheese Tteokbokki is egg-free and suitable for vegetarians, but be cautious if you have soy allergies due to the soy sauce. Also, feel free to customize ingredients based on allergies or preferences; for instance, you can use gluten-free soy sauce for those with gluten sensitivities.

What ingredients can I add to Cheese Tteokbokki for variations?
You can personalize your Cheese Tteokbokki by adding ingredients like eomuk (fish cake), dumplings, hard-boiled eggs, or even vegetables like cabbage and scallions. These not only enhance the flavor but also make it a heartier meal!