There are some recipes you try once and instantly add to your weekly rotation. The kind you crave on nights when you want something creamy, cozy, and deeply satisfying — without spending hours in the kitchen. Gigi Hadid Pasta quickly became one of those comfort dishes for so many people, not only because it went viral, but because it turns simple ingredients into a bowl of pure goodness.
This recipe gives you everything people love about the original — the rich tomato-cream sauce, the warm kick from chili flakes, and that silky finish created by butter and Parmesan — all while keeping the recipe family-friendly and suitable. With just one skillet and one pot, you’ll have a restaurant-style spicy pasta that feels indulgent yet incredibly easy to make.
What Is Gigi Hadid Pasta
Gigi Hadid Pasta is a creamy, spicy tomato pasta that brings together richness, comfort, and simplicity in every bite. The sauce remains bold and flavorful thanks to the combination of tomato paste, garlic, cream, Parmesan, and pasta water.
You’ll enjoy the perfect balance of:
- Sweet, deep flavor from caramelized tomato paste
- Silky richness from heavy cream
- Heat from red pepper flakes
- Savory depth from butter and Parmesan
If you love rich and comforting dishes like this, you’ll also enjoy my creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, another cozy favorite with a silky sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything that builds the signature creamy, spicy flavor:
Pasta + Aromatics
Sauce Base
Finishing
- Salt and black pepper
- Reserved pasta water
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
If you enjoy a little heat in your meals, you might also like my spicy sriracha chicken bowl, which balances bold flavors with simple ingredients.
How to Make Gigi Hadid Pasta
This dish comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Before draining, reserve at least one cup of pasta water — it’s key for creating the perfect sauce texture.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Warm olive oil in a skillet and add your garlic and shallots. Cook until fragrant and soft. This step builds the foundation of the sauce.
3. Caramelize the Tomato Paste
Add the tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes. As it darkens, the flavor becomes richer and more complex.
4. Add the Cream + Chili Flakes
Pour in the cream and stir gently until the sauce turns silky and orange. Add chili flakes to your desired spice level.
5. Combine Pasta + Sauce
Add the pasta directly into the pan with the sauce. Slowly mix in pasta water until the sauce becomes glossy and coats every piece.
6. Finish with Butter + Parmesan
Turn off the heat and stir in butter and Parmesan. This step gives the dish its signature velvety finish.
7. Serve and Garnish
Top with fresh basil or parsley, add extra Parmesan if you like, and enjoy warm.
Tips for Making the Best Gigi Hadid Pasta
Flavor Tips
- Let the tomato paste deepen in color for the best flavor
- Add chili flakes gradually so you can adjust the heat
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest finish
Texture Tips
- Don’t skip the pasta water — it makes the sauce silky
- Add the cream slowly to prevent curdling
- Stir in butter off the heat to keep the sauce smooth
For another ultra-smooth and flavorful pasta option, check out my creamy beef and garlic butter pasta, which uses similar techniques for achieving a velvety sauce.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp
- Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino for a sharper flavor
What to Serve with Gigi Hadid Pasta
This creamy pasta pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted broccoli
- A simple side salad
- Crispy chicken cutlets
- If you want a protein-packed side or next-day meal option, my honey garlic chicken bowls pair beautifully with pasta night.
The fresh or crunchy sides balance the richness beautifully.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stovetop and add a splash of milk or water to bring back the creamy texture.
Make-Ahead
Prepare the sauce ahead, then cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
FAQs
How spicy is this recipe?
It ranges from mild to moderately spicy depending on how much chili you add.
What pasta shape works best?
Short, sturdy shapes like rigatoni or penne hold onto the sauce perfectly.
Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes, use coconut milk and vegan Parmesan.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a creamy and comforting pasta dish that feels luxurious yet simple, this Gigi Hadid Pasta is exactly what you need. With its silky sauce, gentle heat, and deep tomato flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again — whether for a quick dinner or a cozy night in.
Try it tonight, add your own twist, and enjoy a bowl of pasta that proves how much flavor you can create from everyday ingredients.
Gigi Hadid Pasta
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 10 oz pasta rigatoni penne, or shells
- Salt for boiling
- 1 cup reserved pasta water use as needed
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 small shallot finely chopped
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to heat preference
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just shy of al dente.
- Reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Sauté Aromatics
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and shallots. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Caramelize Tomato Paste
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to deepen in color for richer flavor.
Add Cream + Chili Flakes
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until smooth and combined.
- Add red pepper flakes to taste.
Combine Pasta + Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
- Pour in 1/2 cup pasta water, stirring until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the pasta. Add more water as needed.
Finish with Butter + Parmesan
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
- Start with 1 tsp chili flakes if you prefer a mild version.
- Add more pasta water for a looser sauce or let it simmer to thicken.
- You can add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
