Okay, let’s be real—there’s just something irresistible about a creamy pasta dish that comes together in one pot (hello, fewer dishes!). Now add a kick of spicy, umami-rich gochujang to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a bold, cozy fusion dish that’s basically comfort food with a spicy edge.
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This Spicy Gochujang Alfredo One-Pot Pasta is where East meets West in the most delicious way. It’s creamy, fiery, and packed with flavor, yet still super easy to make. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just need a satisfying weeknight meal, this pasta’s got your back. Trust me, it’s a keeper.
Let’s talk about why this one-pot wonder deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love Spicy Gochujang Alfredo One-Pot Pasta
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. It’s bold and unexpected, but still familiar and comforting. Serve it up and watch your guests swoon (and then ask for seconds).
Budget-Friendly: No fancy ingredients here. Just good ol’ pasta, pantry staples, and that magical tub of gochujang waiting in your fridge to be the star.
Quick and Easy: One pot, minimal cleanup, and straightforward steps make this a no-brainer for anyone who wants max flavor with minimal effort.
Customizable: You can totally play with the heat level or add in your favorite proteins and veggies. Think grilled chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, spinach—the possibilities are endless.
Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy? Check. Spicy? Check. Carby deliciousness? Check. It hits all the right notes, and even picky eaters might just be converted.
Ingredients in Spicy Gochujang Alfredo One-Pot Pasta
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Pasta: Use your favorite kind—fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. This is your base for all the creamy goodness.
Gochujang: The spicy Korean chili paste that adds depth, heat, and a little bit of sweetness. It’s the secret weapon here.
Butter: A classic Alfredo staple that adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.
Garlic: Because what’s a pasta dish without a little garlicky kick?
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce lusciously creamy and smooth.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds that salty, nutty flavor and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the noodles.
Chicken Broth or Water: To help cook the pasta right in the pot and create a flavorful base for the sauce.
Salt and Pepper: To balance the flavors and enhance the whole dish.
Green Onions or Chives: For a fresh pop at the end, and a little extra flair.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: No need! This is a stovetop special, baby. Just grab a large, deep skillet or pot.
Sauté the Garlic: In your pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant—just a minute or two.
Add the Gochujang: Stir in the gochujang and let it melt into the butter. This is where that magical aroma starts to fill your kitchen.
Pour in the Liquids: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, and stir until everything is beautifully combined and slightly bubbling.
Add the Pasta: Drop your dry pasta straight into the pot. Stir occasionally as it cooks, so it doesn’t stick. Let it simmer until tender and the sauce thickens—usually around 10–12 minutes.
Stir in the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has reduced, stir in the Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives for that final, fresh bite.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, with extra cheese if you’re feeling fancy (and let’s be real, when are we not?).
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
Preparation Time
Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: [Time to cook or bake]
Total Time: [Total time needed]
How to Serve Spicy Gochujang Alfredo One-Pot Pasta
This dish is a showstopper all on its own, but here are some tasty ways to round it out:
Crispy Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for an added protein punch.
Simple Salad: A light cucumber or green salad with a zesty dressing balances the creamy richness of the pasta.
Roasted Veggies: Think broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers to add color and crunch.
Pickled Sides: Korean pickles or kimchi are perfect to cut through the creaminess and bring a zingy contrast.
Crusty Bread: Mop up that extra sauce—you know you want to.
Additional Tips
Adjust the Heat: More gochujang = more fire. Start small and add more to taste.
Use What You Have: Swap the cream for milk (it’ll be thinner but still tasty) or use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.
Make it Veggie: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
Reheat Right: Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring the sauce back to life.
Store Smart: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Perfect for leftovers (if there are any left).
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use another type of chili paste instead of gochujang?
A1: You can, but the flavor will change. Sriracha or sambal oelek can work in a pinch, but gochujang’s sweetness and depth are unique.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Just cook it, cool it, and store in the fridge. Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.
Q3: How spicy is this dish?
A3: It’s got a nice kick, but it’s totally adjustable. Start with a small amount of gochujang and taste as you go.
Q4: Can I use non-dairy milk or cream?
A4: Absolutely! Go for coconut cream, oat milk, or your fave dairy-free alternative. Just note it may slightly change the texture.
Q5: What kind of pasta works best?
A5: Long noodles like fettuccine or linguine work great, but honestly, use whatever you have on hand. Even macaroni works in a pinch.
Q6: Can I freeze this pasta?
A6: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Just expect the sauce to be a little less creamy once reheated.
Q7: Is gochujang gluten-free?
A7: Some brands are, some aren’t—check the label if you’re cooking gluten-free.
Q8: Can I add veggies to this dish?
A8: Yes! Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions.
Q9: What protein goes best with this pasta?
A9: Grilled chicken, shrimp, crispy tofu, or even sliced steak if you’re feeling fancy.
Q10: Can I double this recipe?
A10: Totally! Just make sure your pot is big enough and stir often to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
There you have it—Spicy Gochujang Alfredo One-Pot Pasta, the creamy, spicy, totally crave-worthy dinner you didn’t know you needed. It’s bold, it’s cozy, and it’s absurdly easy to throw together. So next time you want to spice things up without overcomplicating dinner, give this one a go.
Print
Spicy Gochujang Alfredo One-Pot Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian, Korean
Description
A fusion of Italian and Korean flavors, this One-Pot Spicy Gochujang Alfredo Pasta features a creamy, spicy sauce with gochujang, Calabrian chili paste, and fresh parmesan for a savory, bold pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk (whole)
- 4 oz freshly grated parmesan
- 3 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp Calabrian chili paste
- 1 tbsp EVOO (extra virgin olive oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4–5 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 lb fettuccine
Instructions
- Make the spicy cheese mixture: Add the cottage cheese, evaporated milk, grated parmesan, gochujang, Calabrian chili paste, and a pinch of salt to a blender. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more spice or salt as desired.
- Cook the pasta: In a deep, wide skillet over low heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Let the garlic slowly come up to temperature, cooking for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until fragrant. Add the bone broth and a pinch of salt, bringing the mixture to a boil. Add the fettuccine in an even layer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Turn off the heat and add the spicy cheese mixture. Toss to combine, then turn the heat back to low to gently heat the sauce. Serve with extra Calabrian chili paste or parmesan, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang and Calabrian chili paste.
- This dish can be served with additional grated parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 769 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 1430mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 50mg