why make this recipe
Creamy Gochujang Pasta is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. The combination of creamy sauce and spicy gochujang paste gives it a unique flavor that is both comforting and exciting. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen.
how to make Creamy Gochujang Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried pasta
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1½ tablespoon gochujang paste
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- Optional toppings: Fresh or dried parsley
Directions:
Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rapid boil on high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water and cook your pasta according to the package directions. Prepare your sauce while the pasta is cooking.
In a large pan or pot, add your butter and melt it on medium heat. Add the minced garlic, gochujang paste, heavy cream, and grated parmesan. Cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken, stirring constantly. Once your sauce has thickened, adjust your heat to low.
If your pasta is done cooking, drain it and add to the sauce. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce.
Cook the pasta and sauce for another 1-2 minutes, adding the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency to your liking.
Top your pasta with more grated parmesan and sprinkle with fresh or dried parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Creamy Gochujang Pasta
Serve Creamy Gochujang Pasta hot on a plate or in a bowl. You can sprinkle some extra grated parmesan and parsley on top for added flavor and color. This dish goes well with a side salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal.
how to store Creamy Gochujang Pasta
To store leftover Creamy Gochujang Pasta, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in a pan on low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
tips to make Creamy Gochujang Pasta
- Use any type of pasta you like, such as penne or spaghetti.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or less for a milder flavor.
- Make sure to stir the sauce constantly while it thickens to prevent burning.
- If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream.
variation
You can add protein to this dish, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to make it heartier. Veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli also work well and add extra nutrients.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes, feel free to use any pasta you like! Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta will all work well.
Q: What can I use instead of gochujang?
A: If you don’t have gochujang, you can try sriracha or another chili paste, but it will change the flavor profile.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian as it uses butter and cream. Just ensure you’re using vegetarian parmesan cheese if you’re strict about it.
Creamy Gochujang Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Spatula/Tongs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g pasta
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 50 g Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 50 ml water or pasta water
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the gochujang, heavy cream, soy sauce, and sugar. Mix well until the gochujang is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.