Viral TikTok Creamy Vodka Pasta Recipe – No Vodka Required

Viral TikTok Pasta Recipe

I was scrolling through Instagram one evening when a friend posted about this creamy vodka pasta recipe from Gigi Hadid that was taking the internet by storm. I thought, 'Could this really be that good without vodka?' Well, I decided to give it a shot—without the alcohol, of course—and to my surprise, it became an instant family favorite! My teen asked for seconds, and even my fiancé, who usually needs meat in every meal, loved the creamy texture and the kick of chili crisp. This dish quickly made its way into our regular dinner rotation, and I can't wait for you to try it too!

• Total cook time: Less than 30 minutes
• Family-friendly: Yes, my teen and the adults loved it
• Difficulty level: Intermediate
• Serving suggestions: Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A mocktail would go great with this meal as well

Why You Will Love This Vodka Pasta

If you like the flavor of a vodka sauce with a little heat, this is exactly what it tastes like. So many flavors in one bite. The whole wheat pasta combines a savory and tangy flavor from the tomatoes with a velvety flavor from the heavy cream. Toss that with a little kick from the chili crisps and red pepper flakes, and add a few herbs and spices for the perfect combination.

Although it primarily tastes like a vodka sauce, we did not use any vodka sauce or alcohol in it. The original recipe included minced garlic which we replaced with garlic powder, and dried basil which we did not add.

If you enjoyed this viral TikTok pasta recipe, you may also want to try out my Viral Smash Burger Taco Recipe as well.

Customization Ideas

• Vegan options: Switch out the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream to give you a similar texture. Instead of parmesan you can use a dairy-free version.
• Low-calorie options: Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream (almond milk cream or oat milk cream works just as well). You can swap out parmesan for a reduced-fat parmesan and use olive oil spray instead of regular olive oil. You can also use zucchini noodles in place of pasta.

I am not a big fan of heat and I think this meal delivered the ideal amount. This meal can be customized based on your preferences. I've seen recipes that added the vodka, that use butter, toss in different herbs and spices, and use different pasta. That is entirely up to you. Our version is below. Let me tell you, my teen loved it, we both had seconds and he even had more the next day. This will be a recipe that will be added to our monthly menu!

If you don't want any heat, feel free to omit the chili crisps and red pepper flakes. If you are looking for alternatives to the cream, you can try a dairy-free cream. If you are like my fiancé who has to have some sort of meat in the meal, feel free to add a protein like chicken or shrimp.

Ingredients for Easy Creamy Pasta

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• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2/3 cup tomato paste
• 2 tbsp chili crisp
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust accordingly)
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 2 cups whole grain penne pasta (or your favorite cooked pasta)

How to Make Vodka Pasta Without Vodka (Step-by-Step)

✓ Step #1: Gather ingredients – Lay out everything you’ll need so it’s easy to follow along.

✓ Step #2: Cook pasta – Cook pasta according to package directions (9–11 minutes). Save ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

✓ Step #3: Heat oil – In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and warm it for 1–2 minutes.

✓ Step #4: Let pasta thicken – Add garlic powder, tomato paste, and chili crisp. Stir constantly until the paste thickens and turns a deeper red (about 3–5 minutes).

✓ Step #5: Simmer – Pour in the heavy cream. Add pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

✓ Step #6: Stir in cheeses – Mix in the shredded parmesan and reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth and silky.

✓ Step #7: Add pasta – Add the cooked pasta and mix to coat. Serve immediately and top with more cheese if desired.

Storage & Reheating Tip

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave and top with parmesan cheese.

What Did You Think?

Did you make this viral TikTok recipe? What was your favorite side to pair with this creamy pasta? I would love to hear your feedback! You can comment below, rate the recipe or you can tag me in your recipes on social media using the hashtag #savvywithabbie!

If You Loved This Pasta Recipe, You May Also Want to Try

• Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese
• Easy Chicken Lo Mein
• Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

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