When a Supermodel’s Pasta Recipe Stole the Internet
It’s not every day that a celebrity recipe takes over your social media feed. But when Gigi Hadid casually shared her spicy vodka pasta on Instagram, the world took notice. In the middle of a time when comfort food felt more essential than ever, her dish stood out. It looked luxurious, it promised flavor, and it was made from accessible pantry ingredients. If you’ve ever wondered if a pasta could feel glamorous and cozy all at once, Gigi Hadid Pasta answers with a resounding yes.
This creamy, spicy tomato-based pasta has earned its place as a viral favorite, but it’s more than a trend. It’s become a staple in kitchens around the world, especially for home cooks who want to whip up something impressive in under 30 minutes.
Table of Contents
Why Gigi Hadid Pasta Went Viral
You don’t need a culinary degree to see why this dish blew up online. Here are a few reasons it captured hearts (and appetites):
- Simple yet indulgent: Made with easy-to-find ingredients but delivers bold, restaurant-style flavor.
- Spicy & creamy balance: The chili flakes and heavy cream come together for a comforting kick.
- Customizable: Whether you add protein or keep it vegetarian, the base sauce is versatile.
- Celebrity factor: Let’s face it, fans love anything Gigi does—but this one happens to be delicious too.
Ingredients You Need for Gigi Hadid Pasta
Creating this pasta doesn’t require an elaborate grocery list. Here’s what goes into it and why each ingredient matters:
Ingredient | Why It’s Used | Substitutions |
---|---|---|
Shell pasta | Ideal shape for holding creamy sauces | Penne, rigatoni, fusilli |
Olive oil | Forms the base for sautéing aromatics | Butter, avocado oil |
Garlic & shallot | Add aromatic sweetness and depth | Use onions if shallots unavailable |
Tomato paste | Concentrated flavor, adds umami and richness | Tomato purée (less intense) |
Heavy cream | For velvety, luxurious texture | Whole milk, coconut cream |
Vodka (optional) | Balances the acidity of tomatoes, enhances cream | Lemon juice or omit |
Red pepper flakes | Brings a subtle heat that lingers | Chili flakes or cayenne pepper |
Parmesan cheese | Delivers salty, nutty umami flavor | Pecorino Romano |
Butter (optional) | Adds depth and a final glossy finish | Ghee, margarine |
Salt & pepper | Enhances and balances overall flavor | Season to taste |
These ingredients come together in harmony to produce a sauce that coats every bite with creamy, tangy, spicy delight.
How to Make Gigi Hadid Pasta Step-by-Step
Even if you don’t consider yourself an expert in the kitchen, this recipe is very approachable. Here’s how to build this viral dish from scratch:
- Cook your pasta in a pot of well-salted water until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and shallots. Stir until soft and fragrant, but avoid browning.
- Add tomato paste and cook it out for 2-3 minutes. This helps the paste deepen in flavor and lose its raw edge.
- Deglaze with vodka (if using) and allow it to reduce. This enhances the creaminess and adds complexity to the sauce.
- Pour in heavy cream slowly, stirring as the sauce thickens. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes.
- Season with red pepper flakes for a gentle, warming heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach your ideal consistency.
- Finish with butter and parmesan, stirring until fully melted and glossy.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Let it chill for 10 minutes before serving. This step allows the sauce to set and coat the pasta evenly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Gigi Hadid Pasta
Every cook develops small tricks to perfect a dish. Here are a few insider secrets to make your Gigi Hadid Pasta even better:
Enhance the Flavor
- Use real, block parmesan and grate it yourself for better texture and melt.
- Caramelize the tomato paste to bring out its natural sweetness.
- Taste your sauce often and adjust spice, salt, or cheese accordingly.
Make It Your Own
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or pancetta for protein.
- Stir in spinach or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly version.
What to Serve With Gigi Hadid Pasta
This pasta is rich, so balance is key when choosing sides. Here are a few perfect partners:
- Lemon-dressed arugula salad: Offers sharpness and freshness.
- Garlic bread or crostini: Helps you scoop up any extra sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Like asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This recipe is best served fresh but leftovers can still shine with the right reheating method.
Best Practices
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slowly on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water.
- Avoid microwaving for too long; it can separate the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes Gigi Hadid Pasta different from traditional vodka sauce pasta?
Gigi’s version uses extra tomato paste for a richer depth and adds chili flakes for a spicier, modern kick.
Can I make this recipe without vodka?
Yes, the vodka is optional. You can replace it with water, broth, or a bit of lemon juice.
Is Gigi Hadid Pasta vegetarian?
It can be. Just make sure the parmesan cheese is vegetarian-approved.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be lighter and slightly less rich. A bit of flour can help with thickening.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream and dairy-free parmesan alternatives. The flavor will shift but still be satisfying.
Gigi Hadid Pasta is more than a fleeting food trend. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when handled with care, can create a dish that feels both luxurious and approachable. Whether you’re a fan of Gigi or just someone who loves a good pasta night, this recipe brings warmth, comfort, and flavor in every bite.
So roll up your sleeves, pour yourself something nice, and cook like the star you are.
PrintGigi Hadid Pasta
Gigi Hadid Pasta is a creamy, spicy tomato-based pasta dish that became a viral sensation. Simple to make and incredibly flavorful, it’s a go-to recipe for comfort food with a celebrity twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Shell pasta – holds sauce well and offers satisfying texture
- Olive oil – base for sautéing aromatics and building flavor
- Garlic and shallots – add sweet, rich aroma and depth
- Tomato paste – provides concentrated, umami-packed tomato flavor
- Heavy cream – creates a smooth, velvety sauce
- Vodka (optional) – enhances tomato and cream balance
- Red pepper flakes – give a subtle spicy kick
- Parmesan cheese – adds nutty saltiness and body to the sauce
- Butter (optional) – enriches the final texture of the sauce
- Salt and pepper – to balance and season the dish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve pasta water.
- Sauté garlic and shallots in olive oil until fragrant and soft.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen flavor.
- Deglaze with vodka (optional) and reduce slightly.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Season with red pepper flakes for desired heat level.
- Toss in cooked pasta and add pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.
- Stir in parmesan and butter until melted and sauce becomes glossy.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Let pasta chill for 10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Skip vodka if preferred; substitute with lemon juice or broth.
- Customize with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Add vegetables like spinach or roasted peppers for extra nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg