Description
This One-Pot Spicy Gochujang Alfredo Pasta combines the creamy richness of traditional Alfredo sauce with the bold, spicy kick of Korean gochujang. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that delivers comforting flavors with a unique twist. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup minimal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup gochujang (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
- Chopped scallions or parsley, for garnish
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic to preserve its flavor.
- Create Sauce Base: Pour in the milk, heavy cream, and gochujang. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly before bringing the mixture to a light simmer. This creates the creamy and spicy sauce base.
- Cook Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot with the sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The pasta will cook al dente as it absorbs the flavors and the sauce thickens. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Finish Sauce: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, adjusting seasoning to your taste preferences for the perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with chopped scallions or parsley to add a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of gochujang according to your preferred spice level.
- Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick as the pasta cooks.
- This recipe works well with any long pasta type, such as linguine or tagliatelle.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or plant-based alternatives, and use vegan Parmesan if desired.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs adds brightness and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion (Korean-Italian)
