Gigi Hadid Pasta {Viral Recipe} - The Big Man's World ®

The Gigi Hadid Pasta is a special dish that combines a creamy tomato-vodka sauce with fresh herbs to create the perfect balance of flavors. This recipe has gained so much hype because the sauce is both rich and easy to make, while the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection. It’s the kind of fuss-free and foolproof weeknight meal that still feels like a treat.

Whether you’re experimenting with pasta recipes or just looking for something simple, this dish offers a decadent twist that’s both quick and impressive. It’s like a comforting bowl of mac and cheese, but with a sophisticated vodka sauce and a lot more flavor. Perfect for anyone who loves a meal that combines simplicity with beauty and tastes like you put in extra effort.

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What is Gigi Hadid Pasta?

The Gigi Hadid Pasta is a viral recipe inspired by the classic Spicy Vodka Pasta that gained popularity thanks to supermodel Gigi Hadid. This dish combines a tomato-based vodka sauce with cream, creating a rich and creamy texture. The sauce is made by cooking down onions and garlic, then adding tomato paste and olive oil before incorporating heavy cream for smoothness.

A touch of red chili and red pepper flakes brings just the right amount of heat, while fresh herbs like basil add an herbal touch to finish. The addition of butter, parmesan, and pasta water takes it to perfection, making it my favorite dish to make at home. Whether you’re in Italy or anywhere else, this twist on a traditional pasta is bound to impress.

Why I love this recipe

It’s fit for any occasion, whether I’m hosting guests or having a casual weeknight dinner.
The recipe is impressive yet simple enough for a quick meal at home.
I love how easy it is to boil pasta and simmer sauce—it’s almost foolproof.
I can break it down so even beginners can look like a professional in the kitchen.
It’s incredibly quick, with prep time under 30 minutes.
It’s the perfect comfort food, with a massive bowl of creamy pasta that feels so satisfying.

How to Make the Gigi Hadid Pasta?

Creating the perfect Gigi Hadid Pasta at home is simpler than you might think. The dish centers around rigatoni pasta coated in a spicy vodka sauce (though interestingly, this version is made without vodka). The sauce delivers all the flavor without the alcohol, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy.

Begin with extra virgin olive oil in a hot pan – for an elevated taste, consider using oil from a sun-dried tomato jar for added flavor depth. Add fresh, finely minced garlic and let it become aromatic before introducing tomato paste. This ingredient has a bold flavor and thick texture that needs to be cooked properly. The acidic, concentrated paste must be cooked down to reduce acidity as it caramelizes, turning a darker color.

Next comes the heavy cream or heavy whipping cream, transforming the mixture into a silky sauce. Red pepper flakes add that signature heat – add more for a stronger kick if you prefer. Dried basil works wonderfully, though fresh basil adds even more vibrancy to the dish. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, remembering that parmesan and pasta water are both salty.

Speaking of parmesan, use a wedge rather than pre-grated or powder versions – the difference is incredible in how it melts into the sauce. Always grate it fresh. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid is crucial for the perfect consistency.

For the finishing garnishes, consider fresh chopped parsley, additional red pepper flakes, grated parm, or chopped basil on top – these add both flavor and aesthetic purposes to your masterpiece.

Here’s what you will need for the sauce:

Extra virgin olive oil – Sometimes I use olive oil from the sun-dried tomato jar to add more flavor.
Garlic – Use fresh garlic that has been finely minced for the best taste.
Tomato paste – Tomato paste has a bold, concentrated flavor. It’s thick, and its acidity is reduced by cooking it in oil, which caramelizes it, turning it darker.
Heavy cream – Heavy cream or heavy whipping cream works perfectly in this recipe.
Red pepper flakes – Add more for an extra kick if you like it spicy.
Dried basil – Fresh basil works great too and adds a vibrant touch to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Adjust according to your preference. Be mindful that parmesan and pasta water are salty, so start with a pinch and adjust after adding them.
Parmesan – Buy a wedge of parmesan instead of pre-grated for a fresher, more intense flavor that melts better into the sauce.
Pasta water – Remember to reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Garnishes – You can top the dish with fresh chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, grated parmesan, or chopped basil for extra flavor and an appealing look.

Tips & Notes

For the best Gigi Hadid Pasta, consider using oil from a sun dried tomato jar for extra flavor – it’s absolutely delicious. If you want to include onions in your recipe, saute them first to soften before adding garlic and tomato paste.

Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded varieties. It might be more pricey, but it’s worth it for the rich, authentic taste. As for pasta shape, rigatoni is a favorite because each tube fills with sauce, making every bite more flavorful. However, penne or any other shape works well too.

A crucial step is saving some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid adds flavor and saltiness while it thickens and helps glue the sauce to the pasta. When it comes to heat, adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste – add more if you prefer it spicier. The standard amount in most recipes isn’t overly spicy but perfectly balances the sweetness of the tomato.

What to Serve it With

While pasta makes a perfect meal on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes elevates the experience, especially when hosting guests for a bigger dinner. For a lighter option, a crisp Caesar salad provides refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

For those seeking something more indulgent, homemade garlic bread or cheesy garlic bread makes an irresistible accompaniment. Add protein like grilled chicken or crispy chicken cutlets for a more substantial meal – they make the perfect addition to this pasta dish. Other excellent pairings include The Best Garlic Bread, Creamy Chicken Alfredo, Cheesecake Factory Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta, or Cajun Chicken Pasta for a true feast. If you have questions about the recipe, check the comments section or share your results with a picture on Instagram – seeing your remakes brings joy to any chef!

Traditional vs. Gigi’s Version: A Comparison

Feature	Traditional Vodka Pasta	Gigi Hadid Pasta
Alcohol	Contains vodka	Made without vodka
Spice Level	Mild to medium	Customizable with red pepper flakes
Base Ingredients	Tomato sauce	Caramelized tomato paste
Texture	Creamy	Extra creamy with butter
Pasta Shape	Various	Preferably rigatoni
Preparation Time	30-40 minutes	Just 30 minutes
Cheese	Parmesan	Freshly grated parmesan
Aromatics	Garlic	Onions and garlic
Herbs	Various	Fresh basil emphasized
Cooking Technique	Standard	Caramelizing the tomato paste

Main Course: Gigi Hadid Spicy “Vodka” Pasta

This spicy vodka sauce pasta (made without vodka) is the ultimate main course for any occasion. The Gigi Hadid Spicy “Vodka” Pasta is remarkably creamy and indulgent, yet so easy to prepare. This best pasta dish never fails to impress guests despite requiring minimal effort. Dinner is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike.

Also Read: Homemade Banana Foster Pudding Recipe – Safe for Kids

The recipe calls for 16 ounces of rigatoni pasta or penne, 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fresh garlic (finely minced), 2/3 cup of tomato paste, and 1 1/3 cup of heavy cream. Season with 2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste), 2 teaspoons of dried basil, salt, and pepper. Finish with 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. For garnish, consider finely chopped parsley and additional red pepper flakes for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

Olive oil – Used for sautéing the aromatics. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred as it gives the best flavor.
Onion – One red onion, finely chopped. You can swap it with white onions or shallots if needed.
Garlic – I recommend using freshly minced garlic, but jarred garlic is an alternative in a pinch.
Tomato paste – Provides a bold and concentrated tomato flavor and rich color. You can also use fire roasted tomatoes for a smoky touch if you prefer.
Cream – Heavy cream is ideal, but double cream also works well.
Vodka – Adds richness and a complex flavor to the sauce. It will cook out, leaving no alcohol. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute with broth and a teaspoon of rice wine vinegar.
Red pepper flakes – Essential for that spicy kick in the sauce.
Salt and black pepper – Used to season the sauce to taste.
Pasta – Shell pasta works best as it holds the sauce well, but any pasta is fine. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Pasta cooking water – Helps adjust the consistency of the sauce. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce adhere better to the noodles.
Butter – Unsalted butter adds richness and gives you more control over the saltiness.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan provides the best flavor, though pre-shredded can work in a pinch.
Fresh parsley and fresh basil – For garnish and added flavor.

Instructions

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before you drain the pasta – this starchy liquid is crucial for the final sauce consistency.

While the pasta cooks, place a saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until you see the paste darken in color from bright red to reddish brown. This process removes acidity and develops flavor. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until fully incorporated, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the red pepper flakes, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to taste. Next, stir in the grated parmesan, butter, and 1/2 cup of pasta water until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If needed, add more pasta water, though 1/2 cup is typically perfect. Finally, toss in the cooked pasta and mix to coat evenly. For the finishing touch, top with additional grated parm, chopped parsley, and chili flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vodka necessary for this pasta recipe?

No, the Gigi Hadid Pasta is made without vodka yet still maintains all the rich flavors of traditional spicy vodka sauce.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides the best creamy texture, half-and-half can work in a pinch, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Rigatoni is ideal as each tube fills with sauce, but penne or other shapes work well too.

Why is freshly grated cheese important?

Freshly grated parmesan from a wedge melts better than pre-grated versions and provides a more authentic, rich flavor.

How spicy is this pasta?

The standard amount of red pepper flakes provides mild heat that balances the sweetness of tomato. Adjust to your taste for a spicier experience.

Conclusion

The Gigi Hadid Pasta has earned its place in culinary fame by transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This perfect blend of creamy indulgence with just the right spice level appeals to pasta enthusiasts everywhere. Its quick preparation time and stunning presentation make it ideal for everything from casual weeknight dinners to impressive entertaining.

What truly sets this dish apart is its approachability. Anyone can create this favorite pasta at home, regardless of cooking experience. The caramelized tomato paste combined with heavy cream, butter, and freshly grated parmesan creates a depth of flavor that tastes like it took hours to develop, though it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this Italy-inspired creation delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The Gigi Hadid Pasta isn’t just a trend – it’s a timeless recipe that will continue to bring joy to pasta lovers for years to come.