You might know this dish as the TikTok famous “Gigi Hadid Pasta,” but it has been a staple of Italian cuisine for decades. From its creamy, cheesy pink sauce to the subtle heat that makes your mouth water, what’s not to like? Maybe you’ve heard of vodka pasta before or perhaps this article will act as your introduction to the dish — either way, this is your sign to make it.
To prepare this spicy vodka pasta, you’ll need a stove, pot, pan, cutting board, knife, measuring cups, measuring spoons and a stirring utensil (such as a spatula or wooden spoon).
Ingredients:
- A bag of pasta, your choice (I recommend rigatoni or penne)
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Shallot
- Garlic
- Red pepper flakes
- Tomato paste
- Vodka
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Pancetta (optional)
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil, salting the water and adding your pasta. Cook until al dente or until fully cooked but still firm (about 10 to 12 minutes). When you drain the pasta, put a cup of pasta water to the side for later.
Now onto the sauce. For added flavour, start by chopping up some pancetta and cooking it in your pan until it starts to brown. There’s no need to add oil, as the meat is fatty enough that it will naturally crisp up when fried. Remove the pancetta from your pan and set it aside on a paper towel lined plate. If you don’t eat meat or feel like saving 10 minutes, feel free to skip this step.
Next, finely dice a single shallot (substitute with half of a yellow onion if needed) and two cloves of garlic. If you’re using store-bought minced garlic, you’ll need about one teaspoon. Using the leftover grease in your pan, cook your garlic and shallot. If you skipped the first step, add about one tablespoon of butter and a drizzle of olive oil to a hot pan first. Sauté for two to three minutes, then add a pinch of red pepper flakes and an entire can of tomato paste (about 6oz). If you’re like me and love spicy food, you can add a little more than a pinch; I do a half teaspoon. Stir to combine and let it sit for a few minutes, then add three tablespoons of vodka. Allow the alcohol to cook out, then turn off the heat. Add half a cup of heavy cream, plus half a cup of grated parmesan and a few spoonfuls of pasta water. The goal is to have a perfectly pink sauce, not too light but not red either. Top with fresh basil, extra parmesan cheese and crispy pancetta.
This recipe is quick, simple and absolutely delicious. Consider hosting an Italian-themed dinner party with your girlfriends or cooking a homemade meal for your partner. If you have some leftover vodka from last weekend, skip the shots and get cooking.
