Say Hello to Your New Favorite Pasta Dish 😍
Okay friends, listen up—this Gochujang Pasta with Parmesan and Mozzarella is THE weeknight pasta of your dreams. It’s spicy, creamy, loaded with melty cheese, and has just the right amount of heat to warm your soul without setting your mouth on fire. Plus, we’re using the super fun, twisty Nodi Marini pasta that hugs all that saucy goodness like it was made for it. 🤌✨
You know I love a good fusion dish, and this one delivers big time. We’re blending the bold, umami-packed flavor of Korean gochujang with the creamy richness of heavy cream, the nutty bite of Parmesan, and the gooey magic of mozzarella. It’s cozy, it’s quick, it’s cheesy—and it might just be your new obsession.
Let’s get into it! 👇
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make this spicy gochujang pasta magic happen:
- ½ lb Nodi Marini pasta (or your fave pasta shape!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional but amazing)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Reserved pasta water, as needed
- Extra Parmesan for topping (yes please! 😋)
🍝 What is Nodi Marini Pasta?
If you’ve never heard of Nodi Marini, get ready to be obsessed! This rare Italian pasta shape translates to “sailor’s knots,” and it’s got all the twists and curls to catch that luscious sauce in every bite. Think of it as a cross between fusilli and gemelli with a little extra drama—and we’re here for it. 💃
If you can’t find Nodi Marini, no worries. Go for any shape that’s good at holding sauce—like rigatoni, fusilli, or cavatappi.
🔥 Let’s Talk Gochujang
If you’re new to gochujang, let me introduce you to your pantry’s spicy BFF. It’s a Korean fermented chili paste that’s thick, deep, and bursting with sweet, spicy, and savory notes. It adds instant depth to anything you put it in—and in this pasta, it brings that addictive umami punch that makes your eyes widen after the first bite. 👀🔥
You can find gochujang at most grocery stores (usually in the Asian or international aisle), or online if you’re stocking up.
👩🍳 How to Make Gochujang Pasta (Step-by-Step)
1. Boil Your Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your ½ lb of Nodi Marini pasta until al dente. Don’t forget to save at least ½ cup of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for your sauce.
2. Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tbsp of olive oil. Add your minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Your kitchen will smell amazing already. 😍
3. Add the Gochujang
Stir in 3 tbsp of gochujang and let it cook for a minute to deepen in flavor. This is where that bold, spicy base really starts to shine.
4. Creamy Dreamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir until everything is silky and combined. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Season to Taste
Add your salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of red pepper flakes if you like things extra spicy. Stir it all in.
6. Toss in the Pasta + Cheese
Add your cooked pasta straight to the sauce, along with ½ cup Parmesan and ½ cup mozzarella. Add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen things up and help the sauce coat every nook and cranny. Stir until everything is creamy and melted. 😋
7. Plate + Garnish
Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan, maybe a few red pepper flakes, and a swirl of olive oil if you’re feeling fancy. 🫶
🧀 Why This Dish Works
- Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Spicy + creamy balance – Gochujang brings the fire, cream brings the cool.
- Cheesy heaven – Parmesan for saltiness, mozzarella for gooey stretch.
- Ultra cozy – Perfect for a night in, Netflix, and a glass of wine. 🍷
🌶️ Tips & Variations
- Protein boost: Add sautéed shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy tofu for some extra oomph.
- Go lighter: Sub in coconut milk for a dairy-free twist that still brings the creamy vibes.
- Add veggies: Toss in some wilted spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or blistered cherry tomatoes.
- Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make it friendly for all!
🍷 Wine Pairing Ideas
Go for something slightly sweet or fruity to balance the heat—like a chilled Riesling, Gewürztraminer, or even a juicy rosé. It’s a match made in flavor heaven. 💕
❄️ Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm it up on the stove with a splash of milk or water to revive that creaminess.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Gochujang Pasta with Parmesan and Mozzarella is what I call a flavor explosion in a bowl. It’s comforting, exciting, and just the right amount of unexpected. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a weeknight or impressing friends with your fusion food game—this dish hits the spot every single time.
Seriously, once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat. Don’t forget to tag me @KeiraRecipes if you give it a go—I LOVE seeing your delicious creations! 💌
Until next time, stay spicy & stay cheesy! 🧄🧀🌶️
💡 Craving more cozy pastas? Check out these recipes next: