Craving Gigi Hadid’s spicy vodka pasta? Try this creamy, cheesy, and spicy recipe that’s gone viral—perfect for a quick, cozy dinner.
When Gigi Hadid shared her creamy, spicy vodka pasta recipe on Instagram, it quickly became a viral sensation—and for good reason. This rich and comforting pasta dish is easy to make, full of flavor, and comes together with pantry staples. But how exactly do you recreate it at home?
We’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and answers to common questions like "Can you skip the vodka?" and "What type of pasta works best?".
It all started in 2020 when Gigi Hadid posted the recipe on her Instagram Stories while she was pregnant. Fans were instantly intrigued—not just by the pasta, but by how effortlessly chic and cozy she made cooking at home look. Within days, the recipe went viral on TikTok, YouTube, and food blogs across the globe, earning it the nickname "Gigi Hadid Pasta."
Gigi prepared the dish right from her New York City apartment kitchen, giving fans a rare peek into her private life. Her casual cooking style, paired with detailed steps and aesthetic vibes, made it feel like cooking with a friend. That authenticity helped boost the recipe’s popularity even further.
Yes—spicy vodka pasta isn’t a brand-new invention. The dish is inspired by the classic penne alla vodka, a creamy tomato-based pasta that originated in Italy and became a staple in American-Italian cuisine during the 1980s. What makes Gigi’s version unique is her personal twist: a touch more cream, a good amount of chili flakes, and her choice of shell pasta for extra saucy bites.
This pasta is creamy, spicy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and onion, and cook until soft and fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook until it darkens slightly.
Add vodka (if using) and let it cook off.
Stir in the heavy cream, then add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
Add butter and let it melt into the sauce.
Toss in the pasta and reserved water.
Mix in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and coats the pasta.
Top with more Parmesan and chopped basil.
Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort meal!