Gochujang Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gochujang Pasta is the perfect fusion dish that brings together creamy and spicy elements in every bite. The earthy flavors of the garlic, shallot, and mushrooms are beautifully complemented by the deep, tangy heat of gochujang. The creamy sauce gives the pasta a luscious texture, while the optional parmesan or cashew parmesan adds a nutty, savory finish. If you love a bit of spice with your pasta but want something a little different from the usual tomato-based sauces, this dish will definitely hit the spot. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for anyone following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet!

Ingredients

• 8.8 oz gluten-free paccheri or rigatoni
• 1 oz garlic clove, thinly sliced (about 6 large cloves)
• 1 oz shallot, finely chopped
• 10 oz white button mushrooms or cremini, sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 pinches coarse sea salt (or more to taste)
• 2-3 tbsp gochujang paste (or store-bought)
• 1 cup half-and-half, heavy cream, or dairy-free creamer
• 1 tbsp butter
• Sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese (or cashew parmesan cheese)
• Sprinkle of chopped chive or parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and shallots, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and sauté until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the gochujang paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s well incorporated with the vegetables.
5. Add the half-and-half (or dairy-free creamer) and butter to the pan, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat the pasta in the gochujang sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
7. Season with coarse sea salt to taste, and stir to combine.
8. Once everything is well mixed, serve the pasta on plates, and sprinkle with grated parmesan or cashew parmesan. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh finish.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Gochujang Pasta!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: You can add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Protein Options: For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pasta.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang paste based on your spice tolerance. You can add more for a fiery kick or reduce it for a milder version.
• Vegan Option: For a completely vegan version, use dairy-free butter and cashew parmesan instead of regular parmesan cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Gochujang Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra creamer to revive the sauce. Stir constantly until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta of your choice, though gluten-free pasta works perfectly for this dish for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can increase the amount of gochujang paste to make the sauce spicier. You can also add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like it extra spicy.

Can I make this recipe without mushrooms?

Yes, you can omit the mushrooms if you prefer or replace them with other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or eggplant.

Can I use coconut cream instead of half-and-half or heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free, slightly coconut-flavored version of this pasta.

Can I use a different type of chili paste?

While gochujang is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with another chili paste like sambal oelek or sriracha, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, use dairy-free creamer, dairy-free butter, and cashew parmesan instead of regular butter and cheese. The rest of the recipe is naturally vegan.

What other toppings can I add to this pasta?

You can add extra toppings like sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor and texture.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can adjust the spice level by adding extra gochujang or chili flakes, or even incorporate some fresh sliced chili peppers into the dish.

Can I freeze this pasta?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce and pasta separately for up to 1-2 months. Reheat it thoroughly when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Gochujang Pasta is a bold and creamy fusion dish that combines the deep umami flavors of gochujang with the comforting richness of a creamy pasta sauce. With its perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and savory ingredients, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for spice lovers. It’s quick, easy, and customizable to suit your taste preferences, making it a must-try for anyone craving a flavorful twist on traditional pasta.

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