Easy Spicy Vodka Pasta Recipe Inspired by Gigi Hadid

Spicy Vodka Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce – Easy Weeknight Dinner

This Spicy Vodka Pasta recipe, inspired by Gigi Hadid, is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. It has the right balance of heat from the red pepper flakes and richness from the vodka-infused tomato sauce. Plus, it’s simple to make and uses pantry staples you probably already have. Whether you’re a fan of quick meals or looking to impress guests, this recipe will become a favorite. Try it out and enjoy the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and comfort in every bite.

What Makes This Recipe So Good?

  • Creamy texture: The combination of heavy cream and tomato sauce creates a luscious, smooth sauce.
  • Spicy kick: Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat, making each bite flavorful and exciting.
  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Vodka infusion: The vodka enhances the tomato sauce, giving it a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, add protein, or toss in veggies to suit your taste.
  • Minimal ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples, making it budget-friendly and convenient.

Key Ingredients

  • Pasta – Any short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best.
  • Olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
  • Garlic – Adds rich flavor to the sauce.
  • Shallots – Gives a mild, sweet onion flavor.
  • Tomato paste – The base for the sauce, bringing depth and tanginess.
  • Heavy cream – For a creamy, velvety texture.
  • Vodka – Enhances the sauce’s flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes – Adds a spicy kick.
  • Parmesan cheese – For extra richness and flavor.
  • Basil (optional) – A fresh herb garnish for added aroma and taste.

Chefs Helpful Tips

  • Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s slightly firm, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
  • Reserve pasta water: Save some pasta water to help thin the sauce and bind everything together.
  • Adjust spice level: Start with less red pepper flakes and add more to suit your heat preference.
  • Let the vodka cook off: Simmer the vodka long enough so the alcohol evaporates, leaving only the flavor.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the dish with a bolder flavor.
  • Use tomato paste generously: This concentrated ingredient is key to the rich, tangy base, so don’t skimp on it.
  • Finish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley brightens the dish and adds a fresh note to balance the richness.

Recipes To Try

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins
Servings: 4 Calories: 480
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

This Spicy Vodka Pasta recipe, inspired by Gigi Hadid, is a creamy, flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. It has the right balance of heat from the red pepper flakes and richness from the vodka-infused tomato sauce. Plus, it’s simple to make and uses pantry staples you probably already have. Whether you're a fan of quick meals or looking to impress guests, this recipe will become a favorite. Try it out and enjoy the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

  1. Sauté aromatics

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.

  1. Make the sauce base

    Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to darken slightly and develop flavor.

  1. Add vodka and simmer

    Pour in the vodka, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.

  1. Add cream and red pepper flakes

    Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes, adjusting the spice level to your preference. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

  1. Combine with pasta

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to reach your desired sauce consistency.

  1. Season and finish

    Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  1. Serve

    Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil (if using), and serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 480kcal
Calories from Fat 200kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g34%
Saturated Fat 10g50%
Cholesterol 45mg15%
Sodium 400mg17%
Potassium 400mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 55g19%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 6g
Protein 12g24%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: spicy vodka pasta, Gigi Hadid pasta, creamy tomato sauce, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, weeknight meal, Italian pasta dish, vodka sauce recipe, simple pasta, comfort food

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I make this dish without vodka?

Yes! You can substitute an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer to skip the alcohol.

How spicy is this pasta?

The spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you use. You can adjust it to your taste by adding more or less.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are commonly used, any short pasta like farfalle or fusilli will work well.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute, but the flavor will slightly differ.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make the dish more filling.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but the sauce may thicken. If making ahead, store the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat with a bit of reserved pasta water or cream to loosen the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, milk with a bit of butter, or even a plant-based cream like coconut cream for a lighter version.

How long does the pasta last?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.

Can I freeze this pasta?

The sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months, but it's best to cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

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