Creamy Chili Oil Pasta (Gigi Hadid Inspired, Vodka-Free)
If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve probably seen the viral creamy pasta that took over kitchens everywhere — originally popularized by Gigi Hadid. Her rich, spicy tomato cream pasta became an instant sensation. But what if you want all that bold flavor without the vodka?
This Creamy Chili Oil Pasta (Gigi Hadid Inspired, Vodka-Free) delivers the same luxurious, silky texture and fiery kick — minus the alcohol. It’s quick, easy, and made with simple pantry ingredients you likely already have.
Whether you’re craving comfort food with a spicy twist or looking for a viral TikTok pasta recipe that actually lives up to the hype, this one is about to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chili Oil Pasta
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- No vodka required
- Perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory
- Uses pantry staples
- Restaurant-quality flavor at home
This spicy creamy pasta recipe is rich but not heavy, bold but not overwhelming, and incredibly satisfying.
What Makes It “Gigi Hadid Inspired”?
The original viral pasta recipe featured tomato paste, cream, butter, and a splash of vodka to enhance flavor. In this version, we skip the vodka and instead use:
- Extra chili oil for depth
- Reserved pasta water for emulsification
- A touch of butter for richness
The result? A silky vodka-free pasta sauce that clings beautifully to every strand.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells work best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chili oil (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Be careful not to brown the garlic.
3. Toast the Tomato Paste
Add tomato paste to the skillet. Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes until it deepens in color and becomes slightly caramelized.
This step builds incredible flavor.
4. Add Spice
Stir in chili flakes and chili oil. Let them bloom in the heat for 30 seconds to release their full aroma.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat.
Slowly add reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring continuously, until the sauce becomes glossy and perfectly emulsified.
7. Finish with Cheese
Turn off heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan. Toss again until creamy and silky.
8. Garnish and Serve
Top with extra chili oil, Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and fresh herbs.
Serve immediately while warm and luscious.
Creamy Chili Oil Pasta (Gigi Hadid Inspired, Vodka-Free)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve pasta water before draining.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil and butter until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook until deepened in color.
- Add chili flakes and chili oil and bloom briefly.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add pasta and reserved water, tossing until sauce emulsifies.
- Stir in Parmesan, garnish, and serve immediately.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Creamy Chili Oil Pasta
Don’t Skip Toasting the Tomato Paste
This step removes raw acidity and intensifies flavor.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Adjust the Heat
Love spice? Add extra chili flakes. Prefer mild? Reduce the chili oil.
Save That Pasta Water
The starch in pasta water is essential for silky sauce texture.
Variations to Try
Add Protein
- Grilled chicken
- Shrimp
- Crispy pancetta
Make It Vegetarian Protein-Packed
Add sautéed mushrooms or white beans.
Make It Lighter
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half (texture will be slightly thinner).
What Does Chili Oil Add?
Chili oil brings more than heat. It adds:
- Smoky depth
- Rich infused flavor
- A beautiful glossy finish
It transforms this into a true spicy creamy pasta recipe rather than just tomato cream sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy chili oil pasta with:
- Garlic bread
- A crisp arugula salad
- Roasted vegetables
For drinks, sparkling water with lemon balances the richness perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
Add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently over low heat, stirring until creamy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes, substitute coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan. Flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.
Is This Recipe Very Spicy?
It has moderate heat. Easily adjustable.
Can I Use Any Pasta Shape?
Yes, but short pasta shapes hold the sauce best.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chili Oil Pasta (Gigi Hadid Inspired, Vodka-Free) proves that viral recipes can be worth the hype. It’s bold, comforting, quick, and endlessly customizable.
No vodka. No complicated steps. Just silky, spicy perfection.
Once you try it, you’ll understand why this style of pasta became a global favorite.
