Description
This Spicy Creamy Gochujang Butter Pasta is a flavorful fusion dish combining the rich creaminess of butter and heavy cream with the spicy kick of Korean Gochujang chili paste. Enhanced with garlic, oregano, fresh basil, and Parmesan, this pasta is both comforting and vibrant, perfect for a quick yet indulgent 30-minute meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Butter Sauce
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3-4 tablespoons Gochujang chile paste (or Calabrian chili oil)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Pasta
- 1 pound short cut pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
Finishing Touches
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Chili flakes, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 3/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large skillet set over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and dried oregano, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until aromatic and fragrant but not browned.
- Add Gochujang and Cream: Stir in the Gochujang chili paste, mixing well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce gently simmer until it starts steaming and thickening slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce pan along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly. Add additional pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce consistency.
- Finish with Cheese and Basil: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts fully, creating a rich, creamy texture. Fold in the chopped fresh basil for a bright, herbal flavor.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra chopped basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and chili flakes if desired for added heat and color. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use short cut pasta like penne or rigatoni to better hold the creamy sauce.
- Gochujang paste can vary in heat; adjust the amount to your spice preference or substitute with Calabrian chili oil for a different chili flavor.
- Reserving pasta water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lactose-free alternative.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
