I remember stumbling upon Gigi Hadid’s vodka pasta recipe for the first time. Everybody around me was raving about this, and I couldn’t resist trying it out myself. There is something special about this idea of making a few humdrum staples into something pretty special. Creamy sauce, the slightest kick from the vodka, the warmth of the chili flakes—done.
Another thing I like about this recipe is its versatility. It is one of those dishes that feels just right for a night of solo dining or a get-together of friends. The sauce has a luxurious, velvety texture, so every coating over the pasta makes it luxurious, rich, and satisfying in every bite.
But the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time. It has become one of the recipes I lean on when treating myself or trying to impress a loved one with something comforting and a little glamorous.
Every time I make this pasta, I’m reminded of why it became such a viral sensation. It’s not just the celebrity connection; it’s the way this dish transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something that feels indulgent and special.
Alright, let’s dive into making this incredible vodka pasta without any further ado. This recipe is all about simplicity, so we’ll jump straight into combining these everyday ingredients to create a dish that’s nothing short of amazing.
Equipments Required
- Large Pot: I use this to boil the pasta.
- Colander: This helps me drain the pasta once it’s cooked.
- Large Skillet or Pan: I rely on this to cook the sauce and combine it with the pasta.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce and pasta.
- Chef’s Knife: Essential for chopping ingredients like garlic and onion.
- Cutting Board: My go-to for preparing all the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These help me measure out ingredients accurately.
- Grater (optional): Handy for grating Parmesan cheese if I choose to add it.
Gigi Hadid Vodka Pasta Ingredients and Substitutions
Note: The ingredients mentioned in this section make two individual portions of Gigi Hadid Vodka Pasta. You can always change and adjust the quantities of the ingredients according to your needs for the number of servings you want to make.
- ½ Cup Fusilli: I like to use other pasta shapes, such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. I just adjust the cooking time based on the shape I choose.
- 2 Tablespoons Vodka: If I’m not using vodka, I sometimes use white wine or chicken broth instead.
- 1 Tablespoon Butter: I often use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. For a lighter option, margarine or a bit of cream cheese works well too.
- ½ Cup Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, I use half-and-half or whole milk. If I need a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a mix of cashew cream and non-dairy milk can do the trick.
- 2 Tablespoons Parmesan Cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast are my go-to for a dairy-free alternative. Sometimes, I use Asiago or Grana Padano for a different cheese flavor.
- 2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste: Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes work for me. If I use tomato sauce, I reduce the amount slightly or cook it down to thicken it.
- 5 Tablespoons, Finely Chopped Onions: I often use shallots or leeks instead of onions. If I’m out, dried onion flakes turn out to be a good substitute, too.
- 1 Teaspoon Minced Garlic: Garlic powder (about ¼ teaspoon) or shallots are good substitutes if I am out of freshly minced garlic.Â
- 1 Teaspoon Salt: I prefer to use sea salt or kosher salt as a substitute.
- 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper: White pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat. For a milder version, I just use ground black pepper sparingly.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
---|---|---|
5 Minutes | 15 Minutes | 20 Minutes |
How to Make Gigi Hadid Vodka Pasta At Home
- Start by boiling the fusilli pasta in salted water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture—firm but with a slight bite. While the pasta is cooking, let’s move on to the star of the show: the vodka sauce.
- In a large pan, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their aromatic goodness. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, stir in two tablespoons of tomato paste, letting it cook for a couple of minutes to deepen its flavor. Then, slowly pour in half a cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth and rich base for the sauce.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently, thickening as the cream and tomato paste meld together.
- Once you start to see tiny bubbles forming at the edges of the pan, it’s time for the star ingredient—a splash of vodka. Pour it in and give everything a good stir. At this point, you can also season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Let the sauce cook for another minute or two to ensure all the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind just the vodka’s essence. Now, add the drained pasta directly to the sauce, along with a teaspoon of butter.
- Finish by sprinkling in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce. Give everything one last mix, making sure each fusilli is perfectly covered.
- Your Gigi Hadid-inspired vodka pasta is now ready to be savored! Serve it up hot, with a little extra Parmesan on top if you like, and enjoy this simple yet indulgent dish.
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, I always save a cup of the cooking water. Adding a bit of this starchy water to the sauce helps it cling to the pasta better.
- Simmer the Sauce: I let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld, and the vodka reduce slightly. It really enhances the taste.
- Experimenting with flavors and ingredients: I love adding fresh basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness and color. A splash of cream just before serving gives the sauce an extra creaminess. For protein, I sometimes include grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta. I also enjoy sautéing mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients. If I want some heat, I add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Finally, a squeeze of lemon juice or zest brightens the dish with a refreshing twist!
- Use Different Cheeses: I occasionally add a bit of ricotta cheese or a sprinkle of goat cheese along with the Parmesan for a different texture and flavor.
- Herb Variations: I experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano to add a different layer of flavor.
- Top with Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts are great for adding a delightful crunch and extra flavor right before serving.
- Finish with Truffle Oil: For a touch of luxury, I drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the pasta just before serving.
- Deglazing with Vodka: After cooking the onions and garlic, I love to deglaze the pan with some vodka. This step adds a deeper, more enhanced flavor to the dish. As the vodka simmers, it lifts all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, creating a rich base for my sauce!
- Caramelizing the Tomato Paste: I like to caramelize the tomato paste for a bit before adding the cream. This step deepens the flavor, giving it a richer and more complex taste. As the tomato paste cooks, it develops a slightly sweet and savory profile that enhances the overall sauce.Â
- Adding Vodka at Different Stages: I find that adding some vodka at the beginning and then a little later enhances the dish’s flavor. Since some of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, the additional splash added at the end preserves that distinct flavor. This technique creates a beautifully balanced sauce, allowing the vodka to shine through while still complementing the other ingredients.
FAQs About Gigi Hadid Vodka Pasta
Nutritional Information Per Serving
Gigi Hadid’s Vodka pasta is not essentially a healthy option as it is rich and high in calories, fat, and carbs. To make it healthier, use lighter substitutes, add vegetables, opt for whole-grain pasta, reduce cheese, watch portion sizes, or simply enjoy it in moderation.
Here, I have mentioned the nutritional breakdown of Gigi Hadid’s Vodka Pasta:
Gigi Hadid’s vodka pasta is best suited for diets where indulgence and higher calorie intake are acceptable. However, due to its high calorie, fat, and carbohydrate content, it’s not ideal for low-calorie, low-fat, or low-carb diets. Additionally, it’s not suitable for dairy-free diets either. However, with a few modifications and substitutions, this recipe can be enjoyed by people following certain diets in moderation.
Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Lower-Calorie Variation: To make Gigi Hadid’s vodka pasta a bit lighter, I substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or lower-fat milk. I also replace the butter with olive oil or a light cooking spray to cut down on calories and fat. I find that serving smaller portions helps manage calorie intake while still allowing me to enjoy the dish.
- Low-Fat Variation: For a low-fat version, I use non-fat Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream alternative instead of heavy cream. I swap out the butter for olive oil to reduce saturated fat. Sometimes, I use less Parmesan cheese or a lower-fat cheese to decrease fat content.
- Low-Carb Variation: When following a low-carb diet, I replace regular pasta with spiralized vegetables like zucchini or a low-carb pasta alternative. I adjust the amount of pasta or use cauliflower rice to keep the carb count low.
- Dairy-Free Variation: To make this recipe dairy-free, I substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, almond milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative. I use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese to get that cheesy flavor without the dairy. For butter, I use vegan butter or olive oil.
- Gluten-Free Variation: For a gluten-free version, I choose gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or legumes. I also make sure that all other ingredients, including sauces and seasonings, are gluten-free to avoid any sources of gluten.Â
- Vegan Variation: To adapt the recipe for a vegan diet, I replace the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with cashew cream or a mix of non-dairy milk and nutritional yeast for creaminess and a cheesy flavor. I use vegan butter or olive oil instead of dairy butter.
Storing And Reheating This Recipe
Storing
- Fridge: After the pasta has cooled to room temperature, I store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: If I want to freeze it, I transfer the pasta to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Stovetop: I put the pasta in a pan and add a splash of cream or milk (or even water) to help loosen up the sauce. Then, I gently reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: I transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish, add a little cream, milk, or water, and cover it with a lid or a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Then, I reheat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s fully warmed up (usually around 2-3 minutes).
- Oven: To reheat Gigi Hadid’s vodka pasta in the oven, I preheat it to 350°F, place the pasta in an oven-safe dish with a splash of cream or water, and cover it with foil. I bake for 15-20 minutes (or 30 minutes if frozen) until heated through, stirring before serving to keep the sauce creamy.
What To Serve With This Recipe
- Garlic Bread: I find that serving Gigi Hadid’s vodka pasta with garlic bread is a perfect match. The crispy, buttery slices are ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce. I usually make mine with a generous amount of minced garlic, parsley, and a touch of olive oil spread on warm, crusty bread. It’s a simple addition that elevates the entire meal.
- Side Salad: To balance the richness of the pasta, I often prepare a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. I toss it with a light vinaigrette—typically a mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a touch of Dijon mustard, and a bit of honey. The freshness of the salad offers a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: I love serving pasta with roasted vegetables. My favorites are bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. I toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder before roasting. The vegetables’ caramelized, slightly sweet flavors pair wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a more substantial meal, I add grilled chicken or shrimp on top of the pasta. I season them with a simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling. This adds extra protein and a smoky, grilled flavor that complements the richness of the vodka sauce.
- Red Wine: For a touch of sophistication, I pair the pasta with a glass of red wine. I prefer a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Pinot Noir. The wine’s acidity and fruity notes complement the creamy sauce and enhance the overall dining experience.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adding a side of steamed broccoli is my way of boosting the meal’s nutritional value. I lightly steam the broccoli until it’s tender but still crisp, then season it with a bit of salt and pepper. The bright green color and crunchy texture add a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Caprese Skewers: To start the meal, I often serve caprese skewers as an appetizer. I thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzling them with a bit of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy touch. They’re a great way to keep with the Italian theme and are always a hit with guests.
Printable Version
Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ Cup Fusilli
- 2 Tablespoons Vodka
- 1 Tablespoon Butter
- ½ Cup Heavy Cream
- 2 Tablespoons Parmesan Cheese
- 2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
- 5 Tablespoons Finely Chopped Onions
- 1 Teaspoon Minced Garlic
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Large Skillet or Pan
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups And Spoons
- Grater (optional)
Instructions
- Start by boiling the fusilli pasta in salted water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture firm but with a slight bite. While the pasta is cooking, let’s move on to the star of the show: the vodka sauce.
- In a large pan, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their aromatic goodness. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, stir in two tablespoons of tomato paste, letting it cook for a couple of minutes to deepen its flavor. Then, slowly pour in half a cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth and rich base for the sauce.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently, thickening as the cream and tomato paste meld together.
- Once you start to see tiny bubbles forming at the edges of the pan, it’s time for the star ingredient—a splash of vodka. Pour it in and give everything a good stir. At this point, you can also season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Let the sauce cook for another minute or two to ensure all the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind just the vodka’s essence. Now, add the drained pasta directly to the sauce, along with a teaspoon of butter.
- Finish by sprinkling in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce. Give everything one last mix, making sure each fusilli is perfectly covered.
- Your Gigi Hadid-inspired vodka pasta is now ready to be savored! Serve it up hot, with a little extra Parmesan on top if you like, and enjoy this simple yet indulgent dish.
Video
Notes
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, I always save a cup of the cooking water. Adding a bit of this starchy water to the sauce helps it cling to the pasta better.
- Simmer the Sauce: I let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld, and the vodka reduce slightly. It really enhances the taste.
- Experimenting with flavors and ingredients: I love adding fresh basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness and color. A splash of cream just before serving gives the sauce an extra creaminess. For protein, I sometimes include grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta. I also enjoy sautéing mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients. If I want some heat, I add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Finally, a squeeze of lemon juice or zest brightens the dish with a refreshing twist!
- Use Different Cheeses: I occasionally add a bit of ricotta cheese or a sprinkle of goat cheese along with the Parmesan for a different texture and flavor.
- Herb Variations: I experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano to add a different layer of flavor.
- Top with Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts are great for adding a delightful crunch and extra flavor right before serving.
- Finish with Truffle Oil: For a touch of luxury, I drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the pasta just before serving.
- Deglazing with Vodka: After cooking the onions and garlic, I love to deglaze the pan with some vodka. This step adds a deeper, more enhanced flavor to the dish. As the vodka simmers, it lifts all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, creating a rich base for my sauce!
- Caramelizing the Tomato Paste: I like to caramelize the tomato paste for a bit before adding the cream. This step deepens the flavor, giving it a richer and more complex taste. As the tomato paste cooks, it develops a slightly sweet and savory profile that enhances the overall sauce.Â
- Adding Vodka at Different Stages: I find that adding some vodka at the beginning and then a little later enhances the dish’s flavor. Since some of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, the additional splash added at the end preserves that distinct flavor. This technique creates a beautifully balanced sauce, allowing the vodka to shine through while still complementing the other ingredients!
Nutrition
More Lunch And Dinner Recipes That You Can Try
Conclusion
As I conclude this Gigi Hadid vodka pasta recipe, I feel a sense of satisfaction that only comes from creating something truly delicious with minimal effort. This dish has become a go-to in my kitchen because of its viral popularity and because it genuinely delivers flavor and comfort.
Whether I’m cooking it up for a cozy dinner for two or serving it as the centerpiece of a dinner party, it always gets rave reviews. The balance of creamy richness with just a hint of spice from the pepper and warmth from the vodka makes it a truly satisfying meal.
If you’re looking to impress your friends, treat yourself to something indulgent, or simply try a new take on pasta night, I can’t recommend this Gigi Hadid vodka pasta enough. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and try this recipe. And when you do, be sure to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how this pasta turned out for you and any personal twists you added to make it your own!