Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe: Let’s talk about what’s arguably the most talked-about pasta on the internet—Gigi Hadid Pasta. Originally posted by the supermodel on her Instagram Stories, this creamy, spicy vodka pasta recipe exploded in popularity almost overnight. But what makes it so special? It’s not just the fact that a celebrity made it—it’s that it’s genuinely good. Rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to whip up, this pasta recipe has found its way into kitchens around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, the simplicity of the recipe is what makes it so irresistible.
Why Did It Go Viral?
The virality can be attributed to three main things—celebrity influence, aesthetics, and taste. Gigi Hadid’s cozy, home-cooked vibe mixed with her glamourous persona created a perfect storm of relatability and aspiration. The pasta itself looks creamy and indulgent, and the ingredients are accessible, making it an instant favorite for foodies and Instagrammers alike. The creamy tomato base with a hint of spice hits that comfort food sweet spot, and the best part? You don’t even need vodka to make it taste amazing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pantry Staples and Fresh Ingredients
Here’s a list of what you’ll need to recreate Gigi’s famous dish in your own kitchen. The beauty of this pasta is that it’s built on simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have at home.
- Pasta: Gigi used shell pasta, but you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce well.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the base ingredients.
- Garlic: Finely minced – fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor.
- Shallot: Adds a sweet oniony depth.
- Tomato Paste: The main base for the sauce – gives richness and color.
- Heavy Cream: For that creamy, luxurious texture.
- Red Chili Flakes: Adds the signature spice.
- Butter: To finish the sauce with a glossy richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting smoothly.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste.
- Vodka (optional): Enhances the tomato flavor, but can be skipped.
Optional Add-Ins and Substitutes
Want to put your own spin on it? Here are some tasty twists:
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley to brighten things up.
- Vegan version: Use coconut cream or almond milk and a dairy-free butter/cheese alternative.
- Gluten-free pasta: Works just as well and keeps it allergy-friendly.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Cooking Essentials
To keep things stress-free in the kitchen, make sure you have these on hand:
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Saucepan (for the vodka sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Handy Extras for Efficiency
If you want to go pro, these extras can make life easier:
- Garlic press (if you don’t like mincing)
- Grater or microplane (for that parmesan rain)
- Tongs (to toss the pasta like a chef)
Step-by-Step Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients
Before you fire up the stove, get everything chopped, measured, and ready. Dice the shallot finely and mince the garlic. Measure out your tomato paste, cream, cheese, and red chili flakes. If you’re using vodka, pour it out in a small cup. This mise-en-place approach makes cooking smooth and enjoyable. You’ll be surprised how quickly things move once the heat is on.
Step 2: Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it until it’s just shy of al dente—remember, it’ll cook a little more once it hits the sauce. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta later.
Step 3: Making the Signature Spicy Vodka Sauce
This is the part where the magic happens. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add your diced shallots and cook until they become soft and translucent—about 2 to 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant, but don’t let it burn (about 30 seconds).
Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the paste to darken slightly and caramelize. This step intensifies the flavor and creates that deep, rich base we’re going for.
Now, if you’re using vodka, pour it in and let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to cook off the alcohol. This deglazes the pan and brings out the tomato paste’s complexity. No vodka? No problem—just move on to the next step.
Add the heavy cream and red pepper flakes, stirring until everything is smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of chili flakes depending on your spice tolerance. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few more minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 4: Combining Pasta and Sauce
Once your sauce is looking rich and silky, it’s time to bring in the pasta. Add the drained pasta straight into the pan and toss to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce clings perfectly to the noodles.
Now stir in a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a tablespoon of butter. This combo makes the sauce extra creamy and velvety. Give everything a good mix until the cheese has melted and the butter has emulsified the sauce into a dreamy texture.
Step 5: Plating and Garnishing
Time to plate like a pro. Use tongs to serve the pasta into bowls, making sure each serving is nicely coated in that creamy, spicy sauce. Top with extra Parmesan and, if you want to go full Gigi, a little swirl of olive oil and a pinch more chili flakes.
You can also add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil for color and a fresh note. Want to add a bit of drama? Serve it in a shallow bowl and garnish with a parmesan crisp or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common slip-ups:
- Skipping the caramelization: Don’t rush the tomato paste step—it’s key to deep, complex flavor.
- Overcooking the pasta: Always undercook it slightly. It’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
- Using pre-grated cheese: It might seem convenient, but it doesn’t melt as well as freshly grated.
- Forgetting the pasta water: It helps emulsify the sauce and binds it to the noodles like a pro trick.
Enhancements for Extra Flavor
Want to take things up a notch?
- Add sautéed mushrooms for earthiness.
- Finish with truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
- Crushed red pepper mixed into the cheese for a double hit of spice.
- Lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice adds brightness to cut through the creaminess.
Gigi Hadid Pasta Variations
Vegetarian Version
Great news—it already is vegetarian! But you can enhance the veggie love by adding spinach, peas, roasted cherry tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini. These additions bulk it up without taking away from the original flavor. Roasted red bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes also make for a tasty twist.
Creamy Chicken Pasta Twist
If you’re craving protein, this pasta pairs beautifully with grilled or shredded chicken. Just make sure the chicken is seasoned well—garlic, smoked paprika, and a bit of lemon juice work wonders. Add it in after the sauce has been made, just before tossing in the pasta.
Healthier Alternatives and Nutrition
Low-Calorie Options
Let’s face it, creamy pasta isn’t exactly low-cal, but you can still enjoy Gigi Hadid’s pasta with a lighter touch. Swap out heavy cream for Greek yogurt or low-fat milk mixed with a teaspoon of flour to maintain that creamy texture. You’ll save calories without losing too much richness.
Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta (like lentil or chickpea pasta) to boost fiber and protein content. These versions keep you full longer and are great for blood sugar control. Instead of butter, use a small amount of olive oil or skip it entirely if you’re really watching fat intake.
And remember, portion control is key. Even a small serving of this indulgent dish can satisfy your cravings when paired with a big salad or steamed veggies on the side.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Tips
No gluten? No problem. Gigi Hadid pasta works just as well with gluten-free pasta. Look for brands made with brown rice, quinoa, or corn for the best texture. Just keep an eye on the cook time—they tend to soften faster.
For dairy-free versions, use unsweetened almond milk or canned coconut milk instead of cream. Vegan butter and nutritional yeast or plant-based parmesan can sub in for traditional cheese and butter. The result? Still delicious, still creamy, and 100% friendly to your dietary needs.
Storing and Reheating Gigi Hadid Pasta
Best Storage Practices
Got leftovers? You’re in luck—this pasta stores beautifully. Place the cooled pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Avoid storing it while it’s still warm, as steam can cause condensation and make the pasta soggy.
If you’re planning to store a large batch, consider separating it into individual portions. That way, you’re not reheating the whole thing every time, which can degrade the quality.
How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. This helps revive the creamy consistency and prevents it from drying out.
Prefer the stovetop? Heat a small pan over low heat, add the pasta with a bit of liquid, and stir until it’s warm and saucy again. It might even taste better the next day after the flavors have had more time to mingle!
Pairing Ideas for a Full Meal
What to Serve on the Side
Want to turn this into a restaurant-quality meal? Start with a simple side salad—something crisp with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the pasta. Think arugula, shaved fennel, and lemon juice.
Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta makes an excellent companion, especially to mop up any extra sauce. You could also serve it with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
Best Drinks to Pair With
A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Prefer red? Try a light-bodied Pinot Noir.
For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or a cold iced tea with mint adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy flavors of the pasta.
Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
Taste, Simplicity, and Aesthetic Appeal
There’s just something universally satisfying about this dish. It’s got that perfect mix of creamy, spicy, tangy, and cheesy. It’s easy enough for beginners but elegant enough to impress dinner guests. And thanks to its Insta-famous roots, it’s just as much fun to look at as it is to eat.
Plus, there’s something special about making a dish you saw a celebrity enjoy. It feels accessible, fun, and even a little glamorous. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a date night, Gigi Hadid’s pasta delivers every single time.
FAQs about Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe
What is Gigi Hadid Pasta?
Gigi Hadid Pasta is a spicy vodka pasta recipe that went viral after the supermodel shared it on social media. It’s a creamy, tomato-based penne pasta dish with a hint of heat, made with ingredients like garlic, tomato paste, heavy cream, and chili flakes.
Can I make Gigi Hadid Pasta without vodka?
Absolutely! The vodka can be skipped or replaced with a splash of lemon juice or water. The flavor will still be rich and creamy, though slightly less sharp.
Is Gigi Hadid Pasta spicy?
Yes, it has a mild to medium level of spice due to the red chili flakes. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or leave them out entirely for a milder version.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Penne is traditionally used, but you can substitute it with rigatoni, fusilli, or any pasta that holds sauce well.
Can I make it dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan instead of regular cheese.
How long does it take to cook?
From start to finish, the Gigi Hadid Pasta takes about 20–25 minutes—making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Can I store and reheat Gigi Hadid Pasta?
Definitely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Gigi Hadid’s pasta recipe isn’t just a social media trend—it’s a culinary crowd-pleaser that’s here to stay. From its spicy, creamy sauce to its simple prep and flexible ingredients, it’s a dish that adapts to your mood, your pantry, and your lifestyle. Whether you follow the recipe to a tee or remix it with your own twist, one thing’s for sure: you’re in for a seriously satisfying meal. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to comfort food.
