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Creamy Chili Oil Pasta (Gigi Hadid Inspired, Vodka-Free)
Gigi Hadid’s iconic creamy red pasta has inspired countless home cooks, but this vodka-free version of creamy chili oil pasta is designed to be simple, approachable, and just as delicious. With a rich, slightly spicy sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends.
Unlike traditional vodka sauce, this recipe skips alcohol while maintaining the creamy texture and bold flavors that make it so memorable. With pantry-friendly ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can enjoy restaurant-worthy pasta without leaving your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes
- Vodka-free yet rich and creamy
- Bold flavors from garlic, chili oil, and tomato
- Customizable spice levels
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or date nights
This creamy chili oil pasta is inspired by the flavors of the celebrity-favorite dish, but streamlined for everyday cooking.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½–1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free option
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional for extra richness: 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain. - Prepare Chili Oil Sauce
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add garlic and red chili flakes, cooking 30–45 seconds until fragrant. - Add Tomato Base
Stir in crushed tomatoes. Simmer 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. - Make It Creamy
Lower heat, add heavy cream, and stir until fully incorporated. If using butter, add now. Season with salt and pepper. - Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss cooked pasta in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats noodles perfectly. - Finish With Cheese
Stir in grated Parmesan or vegan alternative until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning. - Serve & Garnish
Plate pasta in bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Drizzle additional chili oil if desired for extra heat and color.
Creamy Chili Oil Pasta (Gigi Hadid Inspired, Vodka-Free)
A rich, creamy, and slightly spicy pasta inspired by Gigi Hadid’s favorite dish, made without vodka for a family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in skillet; sauté garlic and chili flakes until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes; simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Lower heat; stir in cream and optional butter. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and serve garnished with parsley.
Notes
Adjust chili flakes to taste. Use pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chili Oil Pasta
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers more aromatic flavor than pre-minced jars.
- Adjust Heat Carefully: Chili flakes can vary in intensity. Start small and taste as you go.
- Reserve Pasta Water: It helps emulsify the sauce and keeps it silky.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly sauce.
- Make Ahead: Sauce can be prepared 1–2 days ahead. Reheat gently and toss with fresh pasta before serving.
Variations to Try
- Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Use chili oil instead of flakes for more flavor depth.
- Herbal Twist: Swap parsley with fresh basil for a fragrant variation.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.
- Serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up the sauce.
- Complement with a chilled white wine or sparkling water for a restaurant-style dinner experience.
Fun Facts & Inspiration
Gigi Hadid reportedly loves a creamy tomato pasta that blends richness with a touch of spice. While the original recipe may include vodka, this version proves you can enjoy the same indulgent texture without alcohol — perfect for family dinners or vegan adaptations.
The chili oil element gives this pasta a modern twist, combining Italian tradition with bold Asian-inspired heat. It’s an easy way to elevate a simple weeknight dinner into something extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or linguine work beautifully with this sauce.
How spicy is it?
You can adjust red chili flakes to taste. Start with ½ teaspoon for mild heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce keeps in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Reheat gently and toss with fresh pasta.
What if I don’t have Parmesan?
Nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free version, adding umami flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
By balancing garlic, chili flakes, tomato, and cream, this pasta delivers the creamy texture and spicy warmth fans love. The key is tossing freshly cooked pasta with sauce and reserved pasta water, ensuring every strand is coated in flavor.
It’s indulgent yet approachable — a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chili Oil Pasta (Gigi Hadid Inspired, Vodka-Free) proves that you don’t need alcohol to make indulgent pasta. With rich flavors, silky sauce, and customizable spice levels, this dish is a winner for any occasion. Make it tonight and enjoy restaurant-style pasta in your own kitchen!