Gigi Hadid Pasta (spicy Vodka Pasta)
Gigi Hadid Pasta (spicy Vodka Pasta) pairs tender pasta with a flavorful sauce or filling for a satisfying main dish.
About This Recipe
Gigi Hadid Pasta (spicy Vodka Pasta) works best when the pasta and sauce finish together.
Save a little cooking water or sauce to loosen the texture before serving.
Ingredients
- ✓8 oz Orecchiette
- ✓2 TBSP olive oil (ORIGINAL: ¼ cup olive oil is too much)
- ✓¼ red onion (small diced (or 3 shallots, minced))
- ✓3 cloves of garlic (minced (ORIGINAL: 1 small clove of garlic, diced))
- ✓¼ cup tomato paste (NOT TOMATO SAUCE)
- ✓½ cup heavy cream (you may replace it with half-and-half to cut down on the fat)
- ✓1 TBSP vodka (YOU CAN SKIP IT)
- ✓Fresh basil leaves
- ✓1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more for a spicier pasta)
- ✓1 TBSP butter (you can omit it to cut down on the fat)
- ✓½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (ORIGINAL: ¼ cup parmesan cheese)
Ingredient Notes
- Pasta: Cook until just tender so it holds sauce.
- Sauce: Keep sauce loose enough to coat every piece.
- Cheese or seasoning: Add gradually and taste before serving.
- Reserved liquid: A splash of pasta water can help the sauce turn glossy.
Instructions
- 1
Cook the pasta: Make sure to follow the directions in the package. When the pasta is done (al dente), save ½ cup of the pasta water before draining instead of ¼ cup in the original recipe. More of the starchy pasta water will make the sauce saucier. Set aside!
- 2
Make the sauce: Meanwhile, heat a large saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil, and cook the onion (or shallots) until soft. Then add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until it appears “darker in color and a bit caramelized”, says Gigi Hadid.
- 3
Add in the heavy cream and then the vodka (optional). Cook until vodka has evaporated (about 2 minutes). NOTE: For extra flavor, you may add a few small leaves of basil to the sauce at this point!
- 4
Add in salt and pepper to taste, and also the red pepper flakes. Keep stirring until combined and the sauce is mostly creamy and thickened.
- 5
Right before adding the pasta, add in the butter. Stir over low heat until the butter has melted.
- 6
Add the cooked pasta – and the pasta water – to the sauce.
- 7
Stir in the parmesan cheese and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Make sure the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- 8
Serve this spicy vodka pasta topped with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese and basil to garnish.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Salt the pasta water.
- Cook pasta just until tender.
- Reserve some cooking water.
- Toss pasta and sauce together before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb finish: Add parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or chives.
- Spicier version: Increase chili, cayenne, black pepper, or hot sauce.
- Saucy version: Serve with gravy, salsa, pan sauce, or yogurt sauce.
- Meal prep: Use leftovers in bowls, wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
What to Serve With Gigi Hadid Pasta (spicy Vodka Pasta)
Serve Gigi Hadid Pasta (spicy Vodka Pasta) with garlic bread, salad, roasted vegetables, or extra grated cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat covered with a splash of water, broth, or sauce to restore moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooked pasta: Soft pasta can break and feel heavy.
- Dry sauce: Keep a little water or sauce to loosen the dish.
- Rinsing pasta: Rinsing removes starch that helps sauce cling.
- Serving too late: Pasta thickens as it sits.
FAQ
Can I make Gigi Hadid Pasta (spicy Vodka Pasta) ahead?
Yes. Reheat with a little extra liquid or sauce if needed.
How do I avoid mushy texture?
Stop cooking when just tender and let carryover heat finish the job.
Can I add vegetables or protein?
Yes, as long as extra moisture is controlled.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat covered with a splash of liquid to restore moisture.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 842 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 96 g
- Cholesterol: 97 mg
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Sodium: 307 mg
- Sugar: 8 g
- Fat: 44 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21 g