Gigi Hadids Vodka Pasta is a creamy, slightly spicy tomato based pasta sauce made with garlic, tomato paste, vodka and heavy cream, finished with butter and parmesan for a rich, velvety sauce.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve definitely seen Gigi Hadid’s vodka pasta, and for good reason. It’s rich, creamy, just a little bit spicy. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, too.

What makes this version so good is how balanced it is. The tomato paste gives it depth, the cream smooths everything out and the vodka enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients

Here is everything you’ll need to make this delicious pasta. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

Rotini Pasta – The base that soaks up all that creamy sauce
Olive oil – Helps sauté and build the foundation of flavor
Garlic – Adds bold, savory depth
Onion – Brings subtle sweetness and extra flavor
Tomato Paste – Concentrated tomato flavor and richness
Vodka – Enhances and balances the acidity of the tomatoes
Heavy Cream – Creates that smooth, creamy texture
Hot Pepper Flakes – Adds a gentle kick of heat
Basil – Adds a hint of herbiness
Butter – Finishes the sauce with richness and shine
Parmesan Cheese – Salty, nutty flavor that thickens the sauce
Salt & Pepper – Enhances all the flavors
Parsley– An optional garnish that adds freshness and color

How To Make It

Here’s how to make this incredible vodka pasta. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.

First, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion and hot pepper flakes. Sauté until for about 2-3 minutes or until slightly softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes.

PRO TIP: Don't rush cooking the tomato paste. It needs the full two minutes to deepen in color and flavor.

garlic onion and hot pepper flakes in skillet

Now, pour in the vodka and let it cook down for about 4–5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. Add the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.

PRO TIP: Warm the heavy cream slightly in the microwave before adding it so it doesn’t break in the sauce

Next, season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Stir in the butter and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the pasta water, then toss in the cooked pasta until fully coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

PRO TIP: The pasta water helps loosen the sauce and create the perfect silky texture.

finished gigi hadid vokda sauce in pan with pasta

Do I Have To Use The Vodka?

Yes, for the true flavor of this dish. It helps balance the tomato and enhances the overall taste of the sauce.

What Pasta Works Best?

Rigatoni and penne are ideal because it really holds onto the sauce. I used Rotoni because my kids like it and it was great, too.

Storage

Let the pasta cool completely and place it in a food safe airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to three days.