Standing in my kitchen one evening, I caught a whiff of something that made my taste buds dance in anticipation. It was just me and a jar of gochujang, ready to transform a simple pasta night into a culinary adventure. This creamy gochujang pasta is a delightful fusion of spicy and savory flavors, perfect for those cozy weeknights or an intimate date night. With a prep time of under 15 minutes, it turns out to be a speedy solution for anyone tired of the usual meal routine. The creamy sauce wraps around the pasta, making each bite a rich and satisfying experience. Whether you’re leaning towards a gluten-free option or want to keep it vegan-friendly, this recipe caters to everyone. Curious about how this unexpected blend can elevate your dinner? Let’s dive in and discover the magic of gochujang together! Why is Gochujang Pasta so special? Quick to Make: You can whip up this dish in under 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. Creamy Delight: The creamy sauce clings beautifully to any pasta shape, giving you a rich experience reminiscent of a classic fettuccine alfredo but with a delightful twist! Spicy-Savory Fusion: The gochujang adds a unique spicy umami flavor that’s sure to excite your palate, setting it apart from other pasta recipes. Health-Conscious Adaptability: This dish is easily customizable—go gluten-free with special pasta or make it vegan by switching to plant-based ingredients. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: If you’re looking to impress, serve this alongside some kimchi or Korean pickled radishes for a vibrant flavor contrast that will have everyone raving! Elevate your meals and step away from the mundane fast food routine—embracing this delicious recipe is just a few minutes away! Gochujang Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Fusilli Corti Bucati Pasta – The ideal base for this dish; swap with gluten-free pasta for an alternative. For the Sauce • Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Pepper Paste) – Provides a spicy and umami-rich flavor; essential for that gochujang pasta deliciousness! • Garlic – Fresh minced or pressed garlic elevates the sauce with aromatic depth. • Salted Butter – Adds creaminess to the sauce; use plant-based butter if preparing a vegan option. • Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and aids in sautéing; can be substituted with any neutral oil. • Shredded Parmesan or Cheddar Cheese – Gives richness to the sauce; vegan cheese is a great substitute if desired. • Heavy Cream – The creamy base of the sauce; substitute with plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version. • Freshly Ground Black Pepper (optional) – Adds a hint of spice for an extra kick; feel free to omit if less heat is preferred. For Garnish • Chopped Parsley – Adds a fresh touch and vibrant color to your dish! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gochujang Pasta Step 1: Cook Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the fusilli corti bucat pasta and cook for 7-12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. When done, drain the pasta in a colander, letting it rest for a moment while you prepare the luscious creamy gochujang sauce. Step 2: Prepare Sauce In a sauté pan set over medium heat, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, then add in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30-60 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn as this can lead to bitterness in your gochujang pasta. Step 3: Add Gochujang and Cream Stir in 2 tablespoons of gochujang into the garlic-infused mixture, creating a vibrant paste. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously as the mixture heats. Keep cooking for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken, coating your spatula nicely. The gochujang will add a beautiful color and flavor to the sauce. Step 4: Incorporate Cheese Next, mix in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the thickening sauce, stirring until it melts completely and integrates smoothly. You’ll notice the sauce becoming creamy and delightful, ready to envelop your pasta in rich, spicy goodness. Step 5: Combine Carefully add the drained pasta to the gochujang sauce in the sauté pan. Use tongs or a spatula to gently toss the pasta, ensuring each piece is coated evenly in the luscious creamy sauce. The vibrant reddish-orange hue from the gochujang should make the dish visually appealing. Step 6: Serve Once well combined, transfer the gochujang pasta onto plates. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for brightness and freshness. Serve immediately, and relish the wonderful fusion of flavors in this quick, homemade delight! How to Store and Freeze Gochujang Pasta Fridge: Store leftover gochujang pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to preserve quality. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 months. It’s best to portion it out for easier defrosting later. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed, ensuring the creamy texture returns. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked gochujang pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Expert Tips for Gochujang Pasta Choose Quality Gochujang: Make sure to select a high-quality gochujang for the best flavor. Cheaper brands may lack the depth and spice that’s vital to this dish. Garlic Timing: Avoid burning the garlic in the sauté pan; it should become fragrant but not browned. This ensures the gochujang pasta maintains a balanced, fresh flavor. Texture Matters: For added texture, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini along with the garlic. This complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Vegan Swap: If you’re opting for a vegan version of gochujang pasta, substitute the cream with plant-based milk and use vegan cheese to maintain creaminess without dairy. Leftover Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the creamy sauce. Gochujang Pasta Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and adjust this creamy gochujang pasta to suit your tastes and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and vegan cheese along with a dairy-free cream for a completely dairy-free delight. Gluten-Free: Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils to cater to gluten sensitivities. Vegan: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, ensuring you use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for creaminess. Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu for a protein-packed version that will keep you fuller longer. Veggie Boost: Enhance the dish by tossing in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, inviting extra flavors and textures. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more gochujang or some crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy an extra kick! Noodle Adaptations: Try using ramen or rice noodles for a unique twist, introducing different textures and flavors to your gochujang pasta. Mix & Match Flavors: Blend in soy sauce or sesame oil for a hint of extra umami, complementing the gochujang beautifully. Don’t forget to check out some of my other favorite pasta dishes like the vibrant Street Corn Pasta or the flavorful Butter Shrimp Pasta for more inspiration! Make Ahead Options These delicious gochujang pasta bowls are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the creamy gochujang sauce up to 3 days in advance by cooking it and then allowing it to cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. Just keep in mind that the pasta should be cooked fresh before serving to maintain the best texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook your pasta, then reheat the sauce in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors back together. This way, you’ll enjoy that rich, spicy goodness without the fuss, making your mealtime a breeze! What to Serve with Creamy Gochujang Pasta Looking to create a well-rounded meal that complements the rich and spicy flavors of your creamy gochujang pasta? Korean Pickled Radishes: These crunchy, tangy bites offer a refreshing contrast, cutting through the creaminess and adding a delightful pop of flavor. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce, enhancing the overall meal experience with its buttery aroma. Sautéed Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to add color, texture, and nutrition, making every bite more satisfying. Cucumber Salad: A light and crisp salad with sesame dressing provides a pleasant crunch and balances the meal’s rich elements effortlessly. Kimchi: Traditional fermented side dish that adds an extra punch of flavor and spice, enhancing the gochujang experience in a whole new way. Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Sparkling water can elevate the meal while keeping the palate refreshed. Creamy Coleslaw: Dressed with a light vinaigrette, coleslaw adds a cool and crunchy element that works beautifully alongside the creamy sauce. Fruit Sorbet: Finish your meal with a refreshing fruit sorbet for a light, sweet contrast to the spicy richness of the pasta. Gochujang Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of pasta should I use for gochujang pasta? You can use fusilli corti bucat pasta for this recipe, as its shape helps the creamy sauce cling beautifully. Feel free to swap it out for any pasta shape you prefer, or even go gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta variant. How do I know when my gochujang is ripe for use? Gochujang is generally ready to use straight from the jar, but it’s best to check the expiration date on the label. Look for a smooth, vibrant color without dark spots or hard clumps, which can indicate it’s past its prime. How should I store leftovers of gochujang pasta? Store any leftover gochujang pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing it to help maintain its creamy texture. When ready to eat again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Can I freeze gochujang pasta? If so, how? Absolutely! You can freeze gochujang pasta in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. For the best results, consider portioning it out to make defrosting easier. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed. Are there any dietary considerations when making this dish? Yes, if you’re preparing for dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting heavy cream with plant-based milk and choosing vegan cheese. Also, be sure to check that your gochujang is gluten-free if necessary, as some brands may contain gluten. What can I do if my sauce is too thick after reheating? If your sauce becomes too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of cream or broth while gently stirring over low heat. This will help restore the creamy texture of your gochujang pasta and ensure each bite remains delightful. Creamy Gochujang Pasta That's Spicy and Ready in 15 Minutes A delightful fusion of spicy and savory flavors, this gochujang pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 2 platesCourse: DinnerCuisine: Italian, KoreanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Fusilli Corti Bucati Pasta Gluten-free pasta can be used.For the Sauce2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Pepper Paste) Essential for gochujang pasta.3 cloves Garlic Minced or pressed.2 tbsp Salted Butter Use plant-based for vegan option.1 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with neutral oil.1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan or Cheddar Cheese Vegan cheese can be used.1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with plant-based milk for vegan.1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper Optional for extra kick.For Garnish2 tbsp Chopped Parsley Adds freshness and color. Equipment large potSauté PanColanderspatulaTongs Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the fusilli corti bucat pasta and cook for 7-12 minutes until al dente, then drain.In a sauté pan set over medium heat, combine olive oil and salted butter. Allow the butter to melt, then add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.Stir in gochujang into the garlic mixture. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.Mix in shredded cheese until melted and integrated into the sauce.Carefully add the drained pasta to the sauce and use tongs to toss, ensuring even coating.Transfer the pasta to plates and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 15gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesChoose quality gochujang for the best flavor. Avoid burning garlic for a balanced flavor. Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
