This Creamy Chili Oil Pasta is rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor—perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner in just 25 minutes! Inspired by Gigi Hadid’s viral Pasta Alla Vodka, this version skips the alcohol but keeps all the creamy, spicy goodness. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and so easy to make—your new go-to pasta recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich & Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and butter makes every bite indulgent.
- Spicy & Flavorful: Homemade chili oil gives the dish just the right kick.
- Versatile: Works with penne, rigatoni, or even shell pasta—whatever you have on hand.
- Lactose-Free Option: Swap in plant-based milk and skip the parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Ingredients
(Serves 2)
- ½ lb rigatoni pasta or penne
- 2 ½ tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 6 garlic cloves, sliced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 ½ tbsp chili oil (use just the sediments for flavor)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream or heavy cream
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tsp dried or fresh basil (optional)
- Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in lightly salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter with the oil. Add sliced garlic and sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste & chili oil: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add chili oil and continue stirring for another minute.
- Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring for 1–2 minutes. Add salt, sugar, paprika, and basil, if using. Let simmer until lightly thickened.
- Combine pasta & sauce: Add drained pasta and the remaining butter. Stir in reserved pasta water to coat every piece evenly.
- Serve: Plate hot with freshly grated parmesan and extra chili oil, if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Tips & Variations
- Adjust spice level: Add more or less chili oil depending on your heat preference.
- Sauce consistency: Too thick? Add extra pasta water. Too thin? Let it simmer a little longer.
- Lactose-free: Replace cream with a simple plant-based cream sauce (2 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp flour + 1 cup plant milk).
- Pasta options: Penne, rigatoni, shells, or any short pasta will work.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy, spicy pasta with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle with fresh herbs and extra parmesan at the table.
Quick Notes
- Inspired by Gigi Hadid’s Pasta Alla Vodka—but completely vodka-free!
- Ready in under 25 minutes, making it a quick weeknight favorite.
- Perfectly creamy, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying.