Spicy Vodka Pasta

Spicy Vodka Pasta

This easy Spicy Vodka Pasta is creamy, rich, delicious- and ready in under 30 minutes! My take on the viral Gigi Hadid vodka pasta recipe, this spicy and flavorful sauce is sure to be on heavy dinner rotation!

Ingredients

  • orecchiette

    or your favorite pasta shape

    ½ lb
  • butter
    4 tbsp
  • red onion

    finely diced

    1 small
  • salt and fresh ground pepper
    to taste
  • garlic cloves

    thinly sliced or minced

    6
  • tomato paste
    ½ c
  • vodka
    ¼ c
  • red pepper flakes
    1 ½ tsp
  • heavy cream
    2 c
  • reserved pasta water
    ¼ c
  • fresh grated parmesan cheese

    plus more for serving

    1 c
  • fresh basil leaves

    for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente in a large pot of salted water. Salt the water well before cooking the pasta (should taste like the ocean). 2. Heat butter over medium-low heat in a large, deep sauté pan. 3. Add the onions and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. 4. Add the garlic, stir and cook until just fragrant, 1 minute. 5. Add the tomato paste and cook stirring occasionally, until darkened in color, 5 minutes. 6. Add the vodka and cook until evaporated, about 1 minute. 7. Add the heavy cream and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring well occasionally for 2 minutes, until slightly thickened. 8. Add the drained cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, and toss to coat. 9. Turn off heat, add parmesan and stir. 10. Serve with additional grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Spicy Vodka Pasta

Spicy Vodka Pasta

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About this Recipe

Craving that creamy, spicy pasta dish you've seen everywhere, but want it on your dinner table fast? This easy Spicy Vodka Pasta delivers rich, restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any weeknight.

Why This Recipe Works

Inspired by the popular Gigi Hadid vodka pasta, this recipe shines with its balanced heat and luxurious texture. The combination of tomato paste, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka creates an incredibly flavorful sauce that coats every piece of pasta beautifully, making it an instant favorite.

What to Expect

Prepare for a velvety smooth sauce that clings to every orecchiette, bursting with savory tomato and a pleasant kick from red pepper flakes. The thinly sliced garlic and finely diced red onion add aromatic depth, while fresh parmesan melts into the sauce, creating an irresistible richness. This dish is comforting yet sophisticated, offering a delightful balance of creamy indulgence and a lively spice.

Customization & Variations

While orecchiette is suggested, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape like penne or rigatoni for an equally delicious result. You can easily adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level; reduce for a milder taste or add a little extra for more heat. For a different herb note, a sprinkle of fresh parsley could complement the basil.

Serving & Context

This rich and satisfying pasta is ideal for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering. Serve it immediately with extra fresh grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.

Frequently Asked Questions