What Is Creamy Gochujang Pasta?
Creamy gochujang pasta is a vibrant fusion dish that blends Korean spice with Western comfort. The star ingredient—gochujang, a fermented red chili paste—adds complex heat, while cream softens it into a velvety, balanced sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight meal: bold, satisfying, and ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick shopping list for your creamy gochujang pasta:
- Pasta (rigatoni, fettuccine, or penne)
- Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- Garlic + Onion or Shallots
- Butter or Olive Oil
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half
- Grated Parmesan (optional)
- Salt, pepper, sesame seeds, scallions (for garnish)
Pro Tip: Want extra depth? Add a spoon of tomato paste or soy sauce while sautéing the gochujang.
How to Make Creamy Gochujang Pasta (Step-by-Step)
- Cook your pasta in well-salted water until al dente.
- Sauté garlic and shallots in butter or olive oil.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of gochujang and stir for 2–3 minutes until it sizzles and darkens slightly.
- Pour in ½ to 1 cup of cream and let it simmer.
- Toss in your drained pasta and add a splash of reserved pasta water to emulsify the sauce.
- Top with Parmesan, scallions, or sesame seeds, and serve hot!
Variations to Try
1. Protein Boost
Add shrimp, bacon, tofu, or rotisserie chicken for a complete meal.
2. Vegan-Friendly
Use oat or soy cream and vegan butter. Nutritional yeast makes a great cheese replacement.
3. Gochujang Tomato Twist
Mix gochujang with tomato paste for a vodka-style fusion pasta.
Why Gochujang Pasta Is Going Viral
- Quick & easy: 15–20 minutes from start to plate.
- Customizable: Adjust heat, add veggies or protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is creamy gochujang pasta?
Mild to medium—it’s warming but not overpowering. Start with 1 tbsp and adjust to taste.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Coconut cream or oat milk work well as substitutes.
What’s the best pasta shape?
Rigatoni or fusilli—both have ridges that hold onto sauce beautifully.
Expert Tips for Maximum Flavor
- Use fresh garlic for a stronger base.
- Don’t skip reserved pasta water—it’s key for creamy consistency.
- Finish with lemon zest or a splash of rice vinegar for balance.
Conclusion
If you’re bored with classic red or white sauces, creamy gochujang pasta is the bold, spicy upgrade you need. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you go vegan, seafood, or chicken—this fusion pasta hits the spot.
Ready to spice up your dinner routine?
