Name: Gochujang Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean Fusion
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine); 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 small onion, finely chopped; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1/2 tbsp tomato paste; 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or heavy cream); 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from boiling); 1/2 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for balance); Fresh basil or scallion for garnish; Toasted sesame seeds (optional); Grated parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)

Why You’ll Love Gochujang Pasta Recipe

This dish offers a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and umami depth. The gochujang provides a savory-sweet spicy kick that pairs beautifully with rich cream and sautéed aromatics, making every bite bold and satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, comes together in about 20 minutes, and uses simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta of your choice (like rigatoni or paccheri)
garlic, thinly sliced
shallot, finely chopped
mushrooms, sliced
olive oil
coarse sea salt
gochujang paste
half-and-half heavy cream or dairy-free creamer
butter
grated parmesan cheese or cashew parmesan
chopped chive garnish

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, reserving a bit of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, shallot, and a pinch of salt, and sauté briefly until fragrant.
Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and soften.
Push the mushrooms aside and cook the gochujang paste in the center of the pan for a few seconds to deepen its flavor.
Pour in the cream and stir until the gochujang fully incorporates into a smooth sauce. If the pasta isn’t ready yet, turn off the heat to prevent over-reducing the sauce.
Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
Stir in the butter and let it melt to give the sauce a glossy finish. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems dry.
Serve warm, garnished with parmesan and chopped chives.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: about 5 minutes
Cook Time: about 15 minutes
Total Time: about 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Keep the dish vegetarian by using dairy or dairy-free cream and skipping any added meats.
Vegan: Substitute dairy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based creamer and use a vegan parmesan alternative.
Protein Boost: Add sautéed prawns, chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
Heat Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang to make it milder or spicier to suit your taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce as needed.

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste with a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor used in many Korean dishes.

Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with rigatoni, paccheri, penne, or even spaghetti.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the gochujang you choose is gluten-free.

Is gochujang very spicy?

Gochujang varies in heat by brand but typically offers a mild to moderate spiciness balanced with sweetness and umami.

What can I substitute for gochujang?

There’s no perfect substitute, but a mix of miso paste with chili flakes can mimic some of the savory characteristics.

Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?

Coconut milk or cream can be used, but it will change the flavor profile. It’s a good option for a dairy-free version.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a bit longer or stir in more cream; adding reserved pasta water also helps achieve the desired consistency.

Can I prep ingredients ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop the aromatics ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.

What should I serve with this pasta?

Light salads, grilled proteins, or simple steamed vegetables complement the rich sauce well.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the gochujang or add red pepper flakes to amp up the heat.

Conclusion

This Gochujang Pasta recipe combines the fiery, umami-rich character of Korean chili paste with classic creamy pasta for a fusion meal that’s bold, comforting, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a great choice for a flavorful weeknight dinner that stands out from the ordinary.