The Viral Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe: A Creamy & Spicy Vodka Sauce Masterpiece

The Gigi Hadid pasta recipe has captivated taste buds worldwide, emerging as a true internet sensation. This incredibly creamy, spicy, and utterly comforting pasta dish is not just a passing trend; it’s a culinary revelation that’s surprisingly simple to master. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can effortlessly whip up this restaurant-quality meal. It’s the perfect solution for anyone craving a deeply satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen, making it an essential addition to any pasta lover’s repertoire.

Chances are, if you’ve been anywhere near social media or caught up with the latest foodie trends, you’ve encountered the phenomenon that is Gigi Hadid’s viral pasta recipe. This dish didn’t just go viral; it took the internet by storm for undeniably good reasons. I vividly recall the first time I decided to try my hand at this recipe. It was one of those evenings where I longed for something hearty and comforting, but the thought of an elaborate cooking session was far from appealing. The promise of an easy yet gourmet meal was irresistible, and the results exceeded all expectations.

From the very first bite, this creamy, spicy pasta instantly became a personal favorite. It’s my go-to dish for cozy nights in, or when I want to effortlessly impress dinner guests. What truly elevates this pasta beyond a simple meal? It’s the exquisite balance of flavors and textures within the sauce. A harmonious blend of rich, concentrated tomato paste, luscious heavy cream, a tantalizing hint of spice from chili flakes, and the profound depth of freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates a truly decadent experience.

And for me, the most intriguing element is the optional splash of vodka. While not essential, it somehow works magic, enhancing and uniting all the individual flavors into a cohesive, unforgettable sauce. Gigi Hadid was certainly onto something when she shared this recipe. Whether you’re preparing a solo meal, cooking for your family, or hosting friends, this iconic pasta is guaranteed to be a resounding success. Join me as I guide you through everything you need to know about crafting Gigi Hadid’s famous spicy vodka pasta, bringing a touch of supermodel-approved culinary magic to your own kitchen!

Understanding the Gigi Hadid Pasta Phenomenon

The Gigi Hadid pasta, affectionately known as spicy vodka pasta, is a modern take on a classic Italian-American dish. This creamy, tomato-based pasta skyrocketed to international fame after supermodel Gigi Hadid shared her personal recipe on Instagram, turning it into an instant global sensation. At its core, it’s an elevated yet incredibly approachable recipe featuring a luxurious sauce made primarily with sweet tomato paste, velvety heavy cream, vibrant chili flakes for a kick, and salty Parmesan cheese, all tossed generously with your favorite pasta shape. While the addition of vodka is traditional and often debated, it serves to emulsify the sauce, creating a smoother texture and enhancing the complex flavors, though it can easily be omitted for a non-alcoholic version. It’s truly comfort food with a touch of celebrity glamour, offering a rich, savory, and perfectly balanced taste that feels both indulgent and surprisingly straightforward to prepare.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Viral Recipe

If you’re still contemplating whether to jump on the bandwagon and try this viral dish, let me assure you: it is absolutely worth every single delicious bite. This recipe isn’t just popular; it’s genuinely fantastic, and here’s precisely why it’s destined to win your heart and become a staple in your culinary repertoire:

• Effortlessly Quick and Simple: In today’s fast-paced world, finding a homemade meal that comes together quickly is a treasure. This recipe is your answer, assembling from start to finish in under 20 minutes. It’s the ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when you crave something homemade and flavorful but simply don’t have hours to dedicate to cooking.
• Utilizes Minimal, Accessible Ingredients: Forget needing a lengthy, obscure grocery list. Most of the components required for this dish are likely already lurking in your pantry or fridge. We’re talking about basic staples like pasta, tomato paste, cream, and a few aromatics, making it incredibly convenient and budget-friendly.
• Highly Customizable to Your Taste: This dish is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you desire a heightened level of spice, a hearty protein addition like chicken or shrimp, or a boost of fresh vegetables, you can easily tweak and adapt this recipe to perfectly match your cravings and dietary preferences. It truly caters to everyone.
• Rich, Decadent, and Bursting with Flavor: The ingenious combination of intensely savory tomato paste, luxuriously smooth heavy cream, and sharp, salty Parmesan cheese melds into a sauce that is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s deeply decadent, perfectly balanced, and offers a restaurant-quality comfort food experience right in your own home.
• Celebrity and Viral-Approved Perfection: This isn’t just another fleeting internet trend; it’s a dish that lives up to and even surpasses the hype. It has consistently impressed seasoned foodies and casual cooks alike, proving its undeniable deliciousness and widespread appeal. Join the millions who have fallen for Gigi Hadid’s irresistible pasta!

Essential Ingredients for Crafting Gigi Hadid’s Pasta

To recreate this beloved recipe, you’ll need a handful of readily available ingredients that combine to create something truly magical. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll be gathering:

• Pasta: 8 ounces or 225 grams of your preferred short pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. These shapes are perfect for capturing the creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of good quality olive oil to start building the flavor base.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced, for that essential aromatic foundation. Fresh garlic offers the best flavor.
• Shallot: 1 small shallot, finely chopped. Alternatively, a quarter of a red onion can be used for a similar mild oniony sweetness.
• Tomato Paste: ¼ cup of rich tomato paste. This concentrated ingredient is key to the sauce’s depth and vibrant color.
• Vodka (Optional): 2 tablespoons. While optional, it adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the sauce for a silkier texture. The alcohol cooks off during simmering.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup of heavy cream, providing the luxurious richness and creamy texture characteristic of the dish.
• Chili Flakes: 1 teaspoon (or red pepper flakes) for that signature spicy kick. Adjust to your personal heat preference.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste, to enhance all the flavors.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, for a pungent warmth.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, freshly grated. High-quality, freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and adds a nutty, salty depth.
• Butter: 1 tablespoon. A knob of butter at the end contributes to the sauce’s glossiness and rich mouthfeel.
• Fresh Basil: A handful, roughly chopped, for garnishing and adding a burst of fresh, aromatic brightness.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Gigi Hadid Pasta

Creating Gigi Hadid’s famous pasta is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfect, restaurant-quality dish:

First, grab a large pot and fill it with generously salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta (like penne) and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture—meaning it’s firm to the bite but not hard. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Before you drain the pasta, make sure to scoop out and reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency, so set it aside carefully.

While your pasta is busily cooking, turn your attention to the sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers and is warm, add the finely minced garlic and the chopped shallot (or red onion). Sauté these aromatics gently for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to soften them and allow their sweet, fragrant notes to develop without browning.

Next, it’s time for the star of the sauce: the tomato paste. Add ¼ cup of tomato paste to the pan with the softened aromatics. Stir it well and cook for approximately 1 minute, pressing it against the bottom of the pan. This step is crucial as it helps to deepen the flavor of the tomato, making it less raw and more caramelized. If you’ve opted to use vodka, this is the perfect moment to pour in the 2 tablespoons. Let it simmer for another minute, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.

Now, stir in the ½ cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (or red pepper flakes for heat), ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat slightly and let the sauce gently simmer for about 3 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to truly infuse and the sauce to begin thickening, creating that luscious texture we’re aiming for.

As the sauce continues to thicken and develop its incredible aroma, add the ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir these rich additions into the sauce until the butter is completely melted and the Parmesan cheese has fully incorporated, creating an even creamier and glossier texture. This step adds both richness and a delightful savory depth.

Once your pasta is perfectly al dente, drain it thoroughly. Then, immediately transfer the hot, drained pasta directly into the frying pan with your spicy vodka sauce. Toss everything together vigorously, ensuring every single strand and piece of pasta is beautifully coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce. Now, gradually add the reserved ½ cup of starchy pasta water, stirring as you go. This pasta water is crucial; its starches help bind the sauce to the pasta and create that coveted emulsified, silky consistency. Add just enough until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.

Finally, your masterpiece is ready! Plate the pasta generously and finish it with a flourish—garnish with a handful of freshly chopped basil. The vibrant green not only adds a beautiful burst of color but also a fresh, aromatic counterpoint to the rich sauce. Serve your Gigi Hadid pasta immediately, hot and steaming, and savor every delightful bite!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe

To elevate your Gigi Hadid Pasta from simply delicious to truly exceptional, incorporating these expert tips and tricks will help you nail every single step and ensure a perfect outcome:

• Prioritize High-Quality Ingredients: The foundation of any great dish lies in its ingredients. For the most profound and authentic flavors, always opt for fresh, good-quality Parmesan cheese, real unsalted butter, and a reputable brand of tomato paste. These foundational elements make a significant difference in the final taste profile.
• Select the Ideal Pasta Shape: While you can use various pastas, short, sturdy shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are exceptionally well-suited for this recipe. Their unique ridges and hollows are designed to perfectly cling to the creamy, rich sauce, ensuring that every single bite is packed with incredible flavor and texture.
• Never Skip the Pasta Water: The starchy water left over from cooking your pasta is an absolute game-changer. It’s essential for creating that luxurious, emulsified, and velvety smooth sauce. Start by adding a small amount to your sauce, stirring well, and then gradually incorporating more if needed until you achieve the ideal creamy consistency.
• Always Grate Your Own Parmesan: Resist the urge to use pre-grated cheese. Store-bought grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can give it a waxy texture and prevent it from melting smoothly into your sauce. For the silkiest results, freshly grate your Parmesan cheese just before you add it to the simmering sauce.
• Customize the Spice Level: The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. If you have a sensitive palate or prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of chili flakes. Conversely, if you adore a fiery kick, don’t hesitate to add a little extra. Taste and adjust until it’s perfect for you.
• Don’t Rush the Tomato Paste: Cooking the tomato paste for a minute or two before adding liquids is crucial. This process, known as blooming, deepens its flavor, removing any raw acidity and creating a richer, more complex tomato base for your sauce.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before tossing in the pasta and again at the very end. Adjust salt, pepper, and chili flakes as necessary. Remember, the pasta water and Parmesan cheese also contribute saltiness, so factor that in.

Gigi Hadid Pasta Variations for Every Palate

One of the many charms of this Gigi Hadid pasta recipe is its incredible versatility, making it effortlessly easy to customize based on your personal preferences, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. Here are some creative and delicious ideas to inspire your next culinary experiment:

• Amplify with Protein for a Heartier Meal: Transform this side dish into a complete and satisfying main course by incorporating your favorite protein. Delicious options include tender grilled chicken breast, perfectly sautéed shrimp, crispy rendered pancetta, or even crumbled Italian sausage. These additions not only boost the protein content but also add another layer of flavor and texture.
• Infuse with Veggies for a Nutrient Boost: Enhance the nutritional value and fresh flavors of your pasta by stirring in an assortment of vegetables. Consider adding sweet roasted cherry tomatoes (which burst with flavor), fresh vibrant spinach (which wilts beautifully into the sauce), earthy sautéed mushrooms, tender roasted bell peppers, or even blanched broccoli florets.
• Experiment with Diverse Cheese Options: While Parmesan is traditional, don’t shy away from exploring other cheeses to subtly alter the flavor profile. You could swap Parmesan for tangy Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier kick, or swirl in a generous spoonful of creamy ricotta cheese as a luxurious, cooling topping just before serving.
• Embrace a Gluten-Free Lifestyle: For those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences, adapting this dish is incredibly simple. Merely substitute traditional wheat pasta with a high-quality gluten-free alternative, such as chickpea, lentil, or corn-based varieties. You’ll enjoy the same fantastic taste and texture without compromising on dietary needs.
• Spice It Up Further: If you’re a true heat seeker, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper alongside the chili flakes, or finish with a drizzle of spicy chili oil for an extra layer of fire and flavor.
• Add a Citrus Brightness: A tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can brighten up the rich sauce, adding a refreshing zing that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

Smart Substitutions for Your Spicy Vodka Pasta

No specific ingredient on hand? Don’t let that deter you from enjoying this incredible pasta! This recipe is forgiving, and these smart substitutions will ensure your Gigi Hadid pasta remains absolutely delicious and satisfying:

• Vodka Alternatives: If you don’t have vodka available, prefer not to use alcohol, or are cooking for children, a simple yet effective substitute is chicken or vegetable broth. Use 2 tablespoons of broth in place of the vodka. It will still provide a similar depth of flavor and help deglaze the pan, contributing to the sauce’s complexity without the alcohol.
• Lighter Cream Options: For those looking to reduce the richness or calorie count without sacrificing creaminess, you have a few excellent alternatives to heavy cream. Half-and-half is a great option, offering a lighter consistency while still maintaining a creamy texture. Whole milk can also be used, though it will result in a slightly thinner sauce.
• Achieving a Vegan Version: It’s entirely possible to make this dish plant-based! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk (for richness) or a plant-based cream alternative like cashew cream, almond milk cream, or oat cream. For the Parmesan, use nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy, umami flavor, or a high-quality vegan Parmesan substitute.
• Fresh Garlic and Shallot Substitutes: If you’re out of fresh aromatics, you can still infuse your sauce with flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder can work in a pinch. As a general guide, use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon of onion powder per clove/shallot. While fresh is always best for vibrancy, these powdered options will get the job done.
• Tomato Paste Alternatives: In an emergency, a rich tomato passata or even pureed canned tomatoes can substitute for tomato paste, though you may need to cook them down longer to achieve similar concentration and depth of flavor.
• Butter Substitute: While butter adds excellent flavor, you can use an extra tablespoon of olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option.

Storage Tips for Your Gigi Hadid Pasta

If you’ve managed to resist devouring the entire batch in one sitting, here’s how to properly store and reheat your delicious Gigi Hadid pasta to enjoy it later like a pro:

• Refrigerating Leftover Pasta: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 days. Beyond that, the pasta can start to absorb too much sauce and become overly soft.
• Freezing the Spicy Vodka Sauce: Cream-based sauces generally do not freeze well, as dairy can separate and become grainy upon thawing and reheating. However, you can prepare and freeze the initial tomato paste and aromatics portion of the sauce (before adding the cream and cheese). When you’re ready to eat, thaw the base, then proceed by adding the heavy cream, Parmesan, and butter.
• Gentle Reheating Techniques: To revive your leftovers, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat. The sauce may have thickened, so add a splash of milk, extra heavy cream, or some reserved pasta water (if you saved it) to restore its creamy, luscious texture. Stir continuously until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, adding a little liquid as needed.
• Meal Prep-Friendly Approach: For optimal freshness and texture, especially if you plan to meal prep, consider cooking the sauce and pasta separately. Store them in individual airtight containers in the fridge. Combine them just before you’re ready to eat, reheating the sauce and then tossing with the freshly warmed pasta. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy or absorbing too much sauce prematurely.

What to Serve with Gigi Hadid Pasta for a Complete Meal

Pairing this rich and incredibly creamy pasta with the right accompanying dishes can transform it from a simple meal into a truly complete and elevated dining experience. Here are my top suggestions for what to serve alongside your Gigi Hadid pasta:

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a significant protein boost, consider adding lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast, perfectly pan-seared scallops, or tender sautéed shrimp. These lean proteins pair exceptionally well with the creamy sauce without overpowering it, making the meal heartier and more balanced.
• A Crisp Green Salad: The richness of the pasta calls for a refreshing counterpoint. A light, crisp green salad tossed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, balsamic dressing, or a simple olive oil dressing will provide a much-needed textural contrast and a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Garlic Bread or a Crusty Baguette: This is a non-negotiable pairing for any pasta dish, especially one with such an irresistible sauce. My absolute favorite is warm, buttery garlic bread or a fresh, crusty baguette. You’ll want it to sop up every single drop of that delectable, creamy goodness—trust me, you won’t regret it!
• Roasted Vegetables: To add more nutrients and a vibrant element to your plate, serve with a side of simply roasted vegetables. Options like tender roasted broccoli, vibrant asparagus spears, sweet cherry tomatoes, or earthy zucchini wedges complement the pasta beautifully, offering a fresh and healthy balance.
• A Perfectly Paired Glass of Wine: For a truly indulgent and sophisticated meal, choose your wine wisely. A refreshing glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc will cut through the creaminess, while a smooth, light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can beautifully complement the savory notes without being too heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gigi Hadid Pasta

More Delicious Pasta & Italian-Inspired Recipes You’ll Love

• Tomato Mushroom Pasta
• Bacon and Mushroom Pasta
• Creamy Vegetable Pasta Bake
• Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
• Creamy Carbonara (No Egg)
• Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
• Italian Minestrone Soup

If you’ve tried this fantastic Gigi Hadid Pasta recipe, I’d absolutely love to hear how much you enjoyed it! Please feel free to leave a comment and a star rating below to share your experience.

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📋 RECIPE: Gigi Hadid Pasta

Yield: 2 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Learn how to make Gigi Hadid’s viral pasta recipe. Creamy, spicy, and delicious, this comfort food is perfect for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces or 225 grams of pasta (like penne)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 small shallot, chopped (or red onion)
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vodka (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon chilli flakes (or add red pepper flakes)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 tablespoon butter
• A handful of fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Boil your pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches an al dente texture, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside for use in the sauce.
   
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Once warm, add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Let them sauté for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   
3. Next, add tomato paste and cook for a minute, stirring constantly. If you’re using vodka, now’s the time to pour it in and let it simmer for another minute.
   
4. Stir in the heavy cream, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper, letting everything simmer together for about 3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
   
5. While the sauce is thickening, add the Parmesan cheese and butter. Stir them in until both are fully melted and incorporated, creating a silky sauce.
   
6. Once the pasta is drained, toss it directly into the frying pan with the spicy vodka sauce, making sure it’s well coated. Gradually add the reserved cup of pasta water, stirring as you go, until the sauce reaches your desired creamy consistency.
   
7. Finally, plate the pasta and garnish with a handful of chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and aroma. Serve it immediately and enjoy your homemade Gigi Hadid Pasta!
   

Notes

• Use high-quality ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh Parmesan, real butter, and a good brand of tomato paste.
• Choose the right pasta shape: Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best for this recipe. Their ridges and hollow shapes hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Don’t skip the pasta water: The starchy cooking water is essential for creating a creamy sauce. Start with a little and add more if needed until the consistency is just right.
• Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can have a waxy texture that doesn’t melt as well. For the best results, freshly grate your cheese just before adding it to the sauce.
• Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the chili flakes, or if you love a kick, add more.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 592
• Total Fat: 46g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 21g
• Cholesterol: 93mg
• Sodium: 647mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 15g

Nutrition is provided as a courtesy only. Please re-calculate on your own with the ingredients and amounts you used for the most accurate data.

© Jessica

Cuisine: Italian / Category: Dinner