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This creamy spicy pasta dish inspired by Gigi Hadid's famous recipe has become my go-to when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich tomato cream sauce with a kick of heat coats each piece of pasta perfectly, creating a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
I first made this recipe when my friend was coming over for an impromptu dinner party, and I needed something impressive with ingredients I already had. Since then, it's become my most requested dish when hosting friends who always ask for the recipe before leaving.
Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta or penne: large tubes catch more of that delicious sauce in every bite
- Extra virgin olive oil: use a good quality one as it forms the flavor base
- Fresh garlic: finely minced for that aromatic punch
- Tomato paste: the concentrated flavor creates richness without long simmering
- Heavy cream: creates that luxurious silky texture
- Red pepper flakes: adjust according to your heat preference
- Dried basil: adds a lovely herbal note that complements the tomato
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated makes a huge difference in flavor
- Unsalted butter: adds a final glossy finish to the sauce
- Pasta water: the secret ingredient that helps bind everything together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Cook the rigatoni or penne in generously salted water according to package directions until al dente. Be sure to reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining as this will be crucial for creating the perfect sauce consistency.
- Develop the Tomato Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat then add the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook this mixture for a full 4 to 5 minutes until the tomato paste darkens from bright red to a deeper reddish brown. This cooking process is essential as it removes acidity and develops a rich caramelized flavor that forms the foundation of the sauce.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until completely incorporated with the tomato mixture. Allow this to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes which helps the flavors marry together. The sauce will take on a beautiful orange hue that signals the perfect vodka sauce color even without the vodka.
- Season the Sauce:
- Add the red pepper flakes, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the sauce and stir well. The dried herbs and spices bloom in the hot cream mixture releasing their aromatic compounds and infusing the sauce with their flavors.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Add the freshly grated parmesan, butter, and about half a cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir continuously until everything melts together into a smooth, silky sauce. The starchy pasta water helps emulsify the sauce while the butter adds a beautiful sheen.
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, ensuring each piece gets thoroughly coated. The pasta will continue to absorb some of the sauce, so having that slightly loose consistency from the pasta water is important. Garnish with additional parmesan, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if desired.
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My favorite part of this recipe is watching the magic happen when the cream hits the caramelized tomato paste. That moment when the sauce transforms into that signature orange-pink color brings me joy every time. My family now calls this "the special pasta" and requests it for every celebration.
Perfect Pairings
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The peppery greens and bright acidity cut through the creamy richness of the pasta creating the perfect balance. For a complete meal add some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce left on your plate.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is how customizable it is. Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein. For a vegetable boost toss in roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach right before serving. You can also play with the spice level adjusting the red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating add a splash of water or cream as the sauce tends to thicken considerably when chilled. The flavors actually develop overnight making this dish sometimes even better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta type you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or a non-dairy alternative like oat or almond cream for a similar texture.
- → How can I make this pasta less spicy?
Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or leave them out entirely. You can also balance the heat with additional Parmesan cheese.
- → What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can use garlic powder as a substitute. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for added flavor and protein.