If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavor-packed pasta dish, this Creamy Gochujang Pasta is about to be your new obsession! This fusion recipe combines the rich umami spice of Korean gochujang with a creamy, garlicky sauce, coating every bite of pasta in a perfect balance of heat and indulgence.
The best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re a fan of bold Korean flavors or just looking for a new twist on your pasta night, this dish is a must-try. Let’s dive in! 🍝🔥
What You’ll Need
Pasta & Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
Optional Add-Ins & Toppings
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for extra umami)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (balances the heat)
- Protein options: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon
- Garnish: Chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds
Pro Tips for the Best Gochujang Pasta
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water – The starch in pasta water helps create a smooth, silky sauce.
- Adjust Spice to Your Preference – If you’re sensitive to spice, start with ½ tablespoon gochujang and add more as needed.
- Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic depth that complements the gochujang.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness – A teaspoon of honey or sugar balances the heat beautifully.
- Mix Up the Protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for extra heartiness!
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Grater (for Parmesan)
Substitutions & Variations
- No Heavy Cream? Use coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a dairy-free version.
- Gluten-Free? Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.
- No Parmesan? Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
- Extra Creamy? Add an egg yolk at the end for a luscious carbonara-style sauce.
- Meat Lovers? Add sliced sausage, crispy bacon, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
How to Make Creamy Gochujang Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the pasta 1 minute less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté the Garlic & Gochujang
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter, then add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in gochujang and cook for another 30 seconds to release its flavor.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Add soy sauce, honey, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add the Pasta & Cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, along with ½ cup reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the noodles. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve & Garnish
Plate the pasta and garnish with red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately!
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce before reheating on the stove.
- Freezing: Not recommended (the dairy-based sauce may separate).
Enjoy & Share!
This Creamy Gochujang Pasta is the ultimate fusion comfort food—bold, spicy, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or impressing friends with something unique!
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment and share your photos! 🍝🔥✨
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