Were you on Instagram when Gigi Hadid shared her now-famous Spicy Vodka Pasta? If not, don’t worry — this creamy, dreamy dish is still very much worth the hype. Rich tomato paste, silky cream, a splash of vodka, chilli flakes, and plenty of parmesan come together to create the ultimate comfort pasta.
It’s simple, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make at home in just 30 minutes.
Why This Recipe Went Viral
- Ultra creamy and velvety sauce
- Slight heat from chilli flakes
- Deep tomato flavor with a subtle sweetness
- Perfect balance of richness and zing
- Ready in 30 minutes
- Easy to make vegetarian
- Vodka optional
This recipe is inspired by the classic Italian-American favorite Penne alla Vodka, which became hugely popular in the 70s and 80s.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450g) dry pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- ½ large onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons vodka (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1–2 teaspoons red chilli flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Handful of fresh basil, chopped
Key Ingredient Notes
Tomato Paste
Use concentrated tomato paste (not tomato sauce). Cooking it in oil caramelizes it slightly, deepens the flavor, and reduces acidity.
Vodka
Vodka doesn’t make the pasta taste alcoholic. Instead, it enhances the tomato flavor and creates a smoother, more balanced sauce. Most of the alcohol cooks off — but you can leave it out entirely if preferred.
Heavy Cream
This is what gives the sauce its luxurious texture. Substituting with lighter cream will work, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Parmesan
Freshly grated parmesan melts best. Alternatives like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano also work beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Start the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the onion and cook gently for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent (do not brown).
3. Caramelize the Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 4–5 minutes over low heat. It should darken slightly and become richer in flavor.
4. Add Vodka
Pour in the vodka and cook for 1–2 minutes. Let it reduce gently.
5. Add Cream & Seasoning
Stir in heavy cream and chilli flakes. Season with salt and black pepper.
Let simmer for 1–2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Finish the Sauce
Add butter and stir until melted and glossy.
7. Combine
Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until the sauce coats the pasta beautifully.
Stir in parmesan and fresh basil.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately with extra parmesan and basil on top.
Top Tips
- Use high-quality pasta — it makes a difference.
- Cook pasta just until al dente.
- Don’t skip the pasta water — it helps emulsify the sauce.
- Add chilli flakes gradually — you can always increase heat.
- Freshly ground black pepper adds amazing depth.
Variations
Make It Vegetarian
The base recipe already is! Just ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
Add Protein
Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
Make It Dairy-Free
Use plant-based cream, butter, and parmesan alternatives.
Extra Creamy
Blend the sauce briefly for a silky, restaurant-style finish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this spicy vodka pasta with:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- A crisp Italian salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Antipasti platter with olives and cured meats
- A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–5 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Gigi Hadid’s Spicy Vodka Pasta proves that sometimes the simplest recipes create the biggest buzz. Creamy, comforting, slightly spicy, and packed with flavor — it’s the perfect pasta for a cozy night in or an impressive yet effortless dinner.
And honestly? The hype is completely justified.