If you’re a fan of bold flavors and creative cuisine, Korean Gochujang Pasta is about to become your new obsession. This dish takes the silky, comforting texture of classic Italian pasta and elevates it with the spicy, slightly sweet kick of Korean gochujang (fermented chili paste). The result? A perfect fusion of two beloved food traditions that will excite your taste buds and leave you asking for seconds
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a date night, or hosting friends, this recipe is an easy yet impressive way to deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can tailor it to your personal taste.
Here’s how to make your very own plate of Korean Gochujang Pasta!
Ingredients
Before we jump into the cooking steps, here’s what you’ll need to whip up this dish. It serves 2-3 people, so double the portion if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers.
For the Pasta
- 250g spaghetti (or your pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red chili (optional, for extra spice), finely sliced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- ¼ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 200g shrimp or chicken, cooked
- A handful of baby spinach or kale
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
- Grated Parmesan (for an extra umami punch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to leave it slightly al dente, as it will cook further when mixed with the sauce. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining, and set the pasta aside.Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. If you want extra heat, toss in the sliced red chili at this stage.Make the Gochujang Sauce
Lower the heat slightly and stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, and honey (if using). Cook for about 1 minute until the ingredients are well combined. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth, rich sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.Optional Add-ins
If you’re using mushrooms, shrimp, chicken, or greens, add them now. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss until every strand is coated in the creamy gochujang sauce. If needed, adjust the consistency with more pasta water. Taste and season with salt or pepper if necessary.Plate and Garnish
Serve the pasta in bowls or on a large platter for sharing. Top with chopped parsley or green onions, sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
Tips for Customization
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas.
- Extra Protein: Add tofu cubes, grilled chicken, or even a soft-boiled egg for a hearty meal.
- Make it Cream-Free: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.
Why You'll Love Korean Gochujang Pasta
This dish hits all the right notes. It’s creamy, spicy, and savory with an irresistible umami undertone from the gochujang and soy sauce. The best part? You can make it in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
Give it a Try!
Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, turn up some music in your kitchen, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Don’t forget to share your Korean Gochujang Pasta creations on social media or with friends. Tag us and inspire others to try this delicious fusion dish. You’ll be the reason someone discovers their next favorite meal!
Happy cooking!
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