Creamy Gochujang Pasta

Creamy gochujang pasta offers a luscious balance of spicy Korean chili paste and rich creaminess, delivering a quick and satisfying meal ready in just 25 minutes. The sauce has a deep umami flavor that pairs beautifully with tender pasta for an unexpected twist on a classic comfort dish.

I first tried this during a chilly evening when I wanted something comforting yet with a bit of heat. It quickly became a favorite for its creamy texture and the bold kick from the gochujang.

Ingredients

• Fettuccine or spaghetti: 8 ounces provides a sturdy base that holds the sauce well. Choose high-quality pasta for better texture
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons adds richness and helps to gently cook the garlic without burning
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced gives a fragrant foundation to the sauce. Fresh garlic works best for bright flavor
• Gochujang paste: 1/4 cup brings authentic Korean heat and umami. Taste before using as brands vary in spiciness
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup adds smooth creaminess that balances the chili paste’s heat
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup freshly grated introduces savory depth and helps thicken the sauce
• Salt and black pepper: to taste season the dish and enhance all flavors
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: adds a fresh, herbal note and color contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just before al dente so it finishes cooking in the sauce. Reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Sauté Garlic:

Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir continuously for about 30 to 60 seconds until the aroma is released but it does not brown. This gentle cooking builds flavor without bitterness.

Add Gochujang:

Stir the gochujang paste into the skillet and cook for about one minute until it loosens and the aroma intensifies. This step mellows the raw spice and deepens the flavor.

Incorporate Cream:

Reduce heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat every strand. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again until the sauce becomes glossy and clings beautifully to the noodles. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach the desired texture.

Season and Serve:

Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper according to your taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.

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I love how the creamy Parmesan contrasts with the spicy, fermented gochujang creating a harmony that is both comforting and exciting. It reminds me of cozy dinners where a simple meal becomes a celebration of flavors.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat as the cream may separate.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version swap heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast but note this alters the flavor profile. If gochujang is unavailable, try mixing chili paste with a touch of miso paste for a similar umami and heat balance. Gluten-free pasta options work well here without compromising the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness. Add sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken for a heartier meal. A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the spicy creamy sauce.

Cultural Context

Gochujang is a staple Korean fermented chili paste that brings deep umami and heat. Its use in pasta is a delicious example of fusion cooking blending Korean flavors with Italian tradition. This dish reflects how global ingredients can come together to create something fresh and exciting.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ What pasta works best with this dish?

Fettuccine or spaghetti are ideal for holding the creamy gochujang sauce, but other long noodles can also work well.

→ How spicy is gochujang?

Gochujang varies by brand, so tasting it beforehand helps adjust the heat level to your preference.

→ Can I use a dairy substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, coconut cream or cashew cream can be used, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

→ Why reserve pasta water?

Reserved pasta water contains starch that helps loosen and bind the sauce for a silky texture.

→ How to avoid garlic burning?

Cook garlic over medium heat just until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds, stirring continuously.