The secret to a perfect weeknight meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Picture this: a cozy evening, the aroma of a rich, creamy sauce wafting through your kitchen, and just 30 minutes between you and a bowl of Gigi Hadid’s viral Spicy Vodka Pasta. This dish effortlessly combines a hint of spice with a velvety texture, making it an indulgent escape from mundane dinners. I first discovered this gem scrolling through social media, captivated by the mouthwatering images and rave reviews.
Now, it’s become a go-to recipe in my home, not just for its stunning flavor but also for its simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just starting on your culinary journey, this dish is versatile enough to cater to your preferences. And if you need to personalize it, don’t worry—there are plenty of easy substitutions that will keep your taste buds dancing. Say goodbye to fast food and hello to a comforting bowl of deliciousness that you can whip up any night of the week!
Why is Gigi Hadid Pasta a must-try?
Indulgent, creamy goodness: This recipe wraps your pasta in a rich sauce that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Quick preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special but don’t have hours to spare.
Flavorful spice: The kick of red chili flakes adds just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the palate.
Versatile options: Whether you’re switching up the protein, going alcohol-free, or using gluten-free pasta, this dish invites creativity—so make it your own!
Crowd-pleaser Appeal: Impress family and friends with a trendy meal that looks as great as it tastes, turning any dinner into a stylish affair.
Easy substitutions: No fresh basil? Try dried, or experiment with other herbs you have on hand for a unique twist. Enjoy elevating your cooking game with this showstopper!
Gigi Hadid Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Dry Pasta – Penne or rigatoni work best for holding the creamy sauce.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning the pasta water, drawing out the flavor.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Use extra virgin for a richer flavor; can reduce to ¼ cup if you prefer lighter.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic provides aromatic depth; substitute with garlic powder if needed.
- Onion – Finely chopped red onion or shallots add sweetness and texture; sauté until soft.
- Tomato Paste – Non-negotiable for a rich base; cook it down to enhance its flavor before adding liquids.
- Vodka – Adds a unique flavor and smooth texture; omit for an alcohol-free version.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious sauce; single cream is a lighter alternative but may alter the texture.
- Red Chilli Flakes – Start with 1 teaspoon for moderate heat; adjust to suit your spice preference.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Butter – Enhances richness; choose salted or unsalted based on your taste.
- Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle for cheesy depth; Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are excellent alternatives.
- Fresh Basil – Brightens up the dish; dried basil can be a convenient substitute if fresh isn’t available.
Feel free to explore variations and make Gigi Hadid Pasta your own with quick substitutions that fit your pantry and palate!
How to Make Gigi Hadid Pasta
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Boil Pasta: In a large saucepan, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta, cooking it until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember, it should have a slight bite! Set aside ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
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Heat Oil: In a frying pan, drizzle olive oil and heat it over medium heat until shimmering. This will help develop those delightful flavors.
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Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil, cooking it briefly for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Avoid burning it, as that can lead to bitterness.
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Cook Onions: Incorporate finely chopped onions into the pan, sautéing them until they turn soft and translucent, roughly 4-5 minutes. This step adds sweetness to your sauce.
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Add Tomato Paste: Mix in the tomato paste, cooking it down for 4-5 minutes until it caramelizes slightly. This intensifies its flavor, creating a rich base for your sauce.
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Pour Vodka: Deglaze the pan by pouring in the vodka. Allow it to cook down for about 1-2 minutes, enhancing the overall taste of your pasta.
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Stir in Cream: Add the heavy cream and red chili flakes to the pan. Season generously with salt and black pepper, heating through for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Melt Butter: Incorporate the butter, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce. This step adds an extra layer of richness.
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Combine Pasta: Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce in the frying pan, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
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Finish Off: Garnish the dish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Taste again and adjust the seasoning if necessary—your Gigi Hadid Pasta is ready!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra chili flakes for added heat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gigi Hadid Pasta Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with this delicious recipe to make it your own!
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Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pasta with gluten-free options like rice or chickpea pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy consistency that’s completely dairy-free, perfect for a plant-based indulgence.
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Protein Boost: Add sautéed chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu to turn this pasta dish into a protein-packed meal the whole family will love.
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Herb Infusion: Swap fresh basil with parsley, oregano, or even a pinch of thyme for a distinct flavor twist that enhances your sauce.
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Elevated Heat: Enhance the spice level with sliced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for those who crave an extra kick.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy flair that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
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Veggie Delight: Toss in some fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers while cooking for added color, nutrients, and natural sweetness to your plate.
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Caramelized Sweetness: Swap regular onions with caramelized onions for a deeper, sweeter flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.
Expert Tips for Gigi Hadid Pasta
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Quality Pasta: Choose high-quality dry pasta for better flavor and texture; avoid overcooking for optimal firmness.
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Pasta Water: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water to adjust your sauce’s consistency, lending creaminess while helping it cling to the pasta.
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Spice Control: Start with 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes; you can always add more for heat later, so don’t overwhelm your dish at first.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly minced garlic and finely chopped onions for the best flavor; pre-packaged versions can lack depth.
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Season as You Go: Taste the sauce while cooking to ensure the right balance of salt and spices—this keeps your Gigi Hadid Pasta deliciously tailored to your palate.
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Butter for Richness: For a touch of luxury in your sauce, make sure to incorporate butter at the end; it elevates the overall mouthfeel beautifully.
Storage Tips for Gigi Hadid Pasta
Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled first to maintain flavor and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Gigi Hadid Pasta in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help revive the creamy texture.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure your storage container seals tightly to keep the pasta’s delicious flavors intact while stored.
What to Serve with Gigi Hadid’s Spicy Vodka Pasta?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that complement the creamy, spiced goodness of this pasta dish.
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Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery treat is perfect for sopping up that rich sauce, enhancing every bite of your pasta.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing add a refreshing contrast, balancing the indulgence of the creamy pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Mixed seasonal vegetables, lightly seasoned and roasted, bring a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors while keeping it refreshing.
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Fresh Basil Pesto: A dollop of homemade or store-bought pesto adds another layer of herbaceous flavor, complementing the dish’s richness wonderfully.
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Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a light note with a zesty sorbet that cleanses the palate and brightens your taste buds, making every bite feel refreshing.
These pairings will create a perfect dining experience that makes your Gigi Hadid Spicy Vodka Pasta even more irresistible!
Make Ahead Options
Gigi Hadid’s Spicy Vodka Pasta is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to streamline your cooking while enjoying luscious flavors. You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. First, boil the pasta and store it in the refrigerator, tightly sealed; this helps maintain its texture. For the sauce, complete all steps except for combining with the pasta. Store it separately in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sauce, mix in the cooked pasta along with a splash of reserved pasta water to revive creaminess, and garnish with parmesan and basil. This ensures your pasta remains just as delicious and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights!
Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe FAQs
What kind of pasta should I use for Gigi Hadid Pasta?
I recommend using penne or rigatoni as they hold the creamy sauce wonderfully, allowing each bite to be flavorful and satisfying. You can also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer those options.
How should I store leftover Gigi Hadid Pasta?
For fridge storage, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled completely before sealing to preserve its flavor and freshness.
Can I freeze Gigi Hadid Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it into a sealed, freezer-friendly container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Gradually add reserved pasta water or a splash of cream while stirring on low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore that luxurious, creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Gigi Hadid Pasta?
Yes, if you’re making this dish for someone with dietary constraints, you have options! You can easily omit the vodka for a non-alcoholic version or substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free take. Just be cautious about using gluten-free pasta if gluten allergies are a concern.
Can I make any ingredient substitutions?
Definitely! If you’re out of fresh basil, dried basil works just as well. Additionally, feel free to change up the proteins with chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. The recipe is highly adaptable, so make it your own!
Gigi Hadid Pasta - Indulge in Viral Spicy Vodka Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta, cooking it until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
- In a frying pan, drizzle olive oil and heat it over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil, cooking it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Avoid burning.
- Incorporate finely chopped onions into the pan, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Mix in tomato paste, cooking it down for 4-5 minutes until caramelized slightly.
- Deglaze the pan by pouring in the vodka and allow it to cook down for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream and red chili flakes, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Incorporate the butter, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce.
- Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce in the frying pan, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Adjust seasoning and serve.