Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels luxurious while being surprisingly simple to make. The creamy tomato sauce coats every piece of pasta beautifully, and the red pepper flakes add just enough spice to keep each bite exciting. I also appreciate that it uses pantry-friendly ingredients and comes together quickly, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 ounces rigatoni pasta or penne
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh garlic, finely minced
2/3 cup tomato paste
1 1/3 cups heavy cream
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes, or to taste
2 teaspoons dried basil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pasta water, as needed
Optional garnishes:
- Finely chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes

Directions

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Before draining the pasta, I reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water. I then drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, I add the olive oil.
I stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. I cook the mixture for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the tomato paste darkens to a reddish-brown color.
I pour in the heavy cream and stir until fully combined. I let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
I add the red pepper flakes, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. I stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
I mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. I continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
If the sauce seems too thick, I add a little more pasta water until I reach the desired consistency.
I add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated.
I serve the pasta immediately with extra Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and additional red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use penne instead of rigatoni for a slightly different texture.
I like adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein.
I occasionally stir in spinach for added color and nutrition.
I can reduce the red pepper flakes if I prefer a milder sauce.
I enjoy topping the pasta with fresh basil for extra freshness.

storage/reheating

I store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk, cream, or water to help loosen the sauce. I warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally. I can also microwave it in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make Gigi Hadid Pasta without vodka?

Yes, I can. This version is specifically made without vodka, yet it still delivers a rich and flavorful sauce.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

I find that rigatoni and penne work best because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce very well.

How spicy is this pasta?

I find the spice level moderate with 2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes, but I can easily adjust the amount to suit my taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare it ahead and refrigerate it. I simply reheat it gently with a little extra liquid to restore the creamy texture.

Why do I need to reserve pasta water?

I use pasta water because its starch helps create a smooth, silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Conclusion

This Gigi Hadid Spicy Pasta is one of my favorite comfort meals when I want something creamy, satisfying, and full of flavor. I love how the simple ingredients transform into a luxurious sauce that tastes like it came from a restaurant kitchen. Whether I make it for a casual dinner or to impress guests, this pasta never disappoints.