Gigi Hadid Pasta (Spicy Vodka Pasta)

WRITER BYJessica

POSTEDDecember 5, 2024

The Gigi Hadid pasta recipe is creamy, spicy, and absolutely the perfect comfort food for pasta lovers. Plus, it's super simple to make with minimum prep time, so even if you're not a pro in the kitchen, you've got this.

If you're scrolling through TikTok or catching up on foodie trends, you've probably come across Gigi Hadid's viral pasta recipe. Let's just say this dish took the internet by storm for a good reason. I still remember the first time I tried this pasta. It was one of those nights when I craved something hearty but didn't want to spend hours cooking.

When I tried this recipe, after one bite, it instantly became my favourite dish, especially on cozy nights or when I wanted to impress dinner guests with minimal effort. What makes this pasta so special? It's all about the balance. The sauce combines rich tomato paste, velvety heavy cream, a hint of spice, and the depth of Parmesan cheese.

And my favourite part? The optional splash of vodka somehow brings all the flavours together. Gigi was definitely onto something here. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this pasta recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. So, let me guide you through everything you need to know about Gigi Hadid's spicy vodka pasta in no time!

WHAT IS THE GIGI HADID PASTA

The Gigi Hadid pasta, often referred to as spicy vodka pasta, is a creamy, tomato-based pasta dish that skyrocketed to fame after the supermodel shared it on Instagram. It's an elevated yet approachable recipe featuring a rich sauce made with tomato paste, heavy cream, chilli flakes, and Parmesan tossed with pasta. The addition of vodka is optional but adds a unique touch that enhances the flavours. Think of it as comfort food with a touch of glamour.

WHY WILL YOU LOVE THIS RECIPE

If you're on the fence about trying this viral dish, let me assure you: it's worth every bite. Here's why this recipe will win your heart:

Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes total time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
Minimal ingredients: You don't need a long grocery list; most of the ingredients are pantry staples you likely already have at home.
Customizable: Whether you prefer a touch more heat, a protein addition, or a veggie boost, you can tweak this dish to suit your cravings.
Rich and flavourful: The combination of tomato paste, cream, and Parmesan creates a decadent and balanced sauce that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food.
Viral-approved: It's not just another internet trend. This recipe lives up to the hype, impressing both foodies and casual cooks alike.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE GIGI HADID PASTA

Here's what you'll need to make this recipe:

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

HOW TO MAKE GIGI HADID PASTA

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.)

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Once it's warm, add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Stir-fry for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Next, add tomato paste and cook for a minute. If you're using vodka, now's the time to pour it in.

Stir in the heavy cream, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper, letting everything simmer together for about 3 minutes.

While the sauce is thickening, add the Parmesan cheese and butter. Stir them in until the butter fully melted.

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.

Finally, plate the pasta and garnish with a handful of chopped basil for a burst of colour. Serve it immediately and enjoy!

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THE BEST GIGI HADID PASTA RECIPE

To take your Gigi Hadid Pasta from great to exceptional, these tips will help you nail every step:

Use high-quality ingredients: For the best flavour, 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 flavour.
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.

GIGI HADID PASTA VARIATIONS

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen. Here are some creative ideas to try:

Add protein for a heartier meal: Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta for a satisfying protein boost that turns this into a full meal.
Make it veggie-packed: Stir in roasted cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, or sautéed mushrooms. These additions not only add flavour but also extra nutrients.
Experiment with cheese options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or add a spoonful of creamy ricotta as a luxurious topping.
Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta, such as chickpea or lentil-based varieties, to keep the dish celiac-friendly without compromising on taste.

SUBSTITUTIONS FOR THE SPICY VODKA PASTA

No specific ingredient on hand? No problem! These substitutions will ensure your pasta is still delicious:

Replace vodka with broth: If you don't have vodka or prefer not to use it, substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavour.
Opt for a lighter alternative to cream: Use half-and-half or a plant-based cream substitute like almond or oat cream for a lighter but still creamy sauce.
Go for a vegan option: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Substitute fresh garlic and shallots: Out of fresh aromatics? Garlic powder and onion powder can work in a pinch, though fresh is always best.

STORAGE TIPS FOR THE GIGI HADID PASTA

If you've made extra, here's how to store and reheat your pasta like a pro:

Leftover pasta: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing the spicy vodka sauce: Cream-based sauces don't freeze well due to potential separation, but you can freeze the tomato paste and aromatics portion. Add cream when reheating.
Reheating tips: Warm your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce's creamy texture.
Meal prep-friendly: Cook the sauce and pasta separately, then combine when ready to eat. This keeps the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming mushy.

WHAT TO SERVE THE GIGI HADID PASTA WITH

Pairing this rich and creamy pasta with the right sides elevates the meal into a complete dining experience. Here are my top suggestions:

Grilled Chicken: For a protein boost, add lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast, which pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
A crisp green salad: The light, tangy crunch of greens with a lemon vinaigrette perfectly balances the pasta's richness.
Garlic bread or a crusty baguette: My favourite is to use garlic bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll want it.
Roasted veggies: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a fresh and healthy complement.
A glass of wine: For a truly indulgent meal, pair it with a refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a smooth, light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir.