If Gigi Hadid’s viral vodka pasta taught us anything, it’s that the internet loves a simple, saucy sensation. But why stop there? While her iconic recipe remains a go-to for TikTok chefs and late-night cravings alike, there’s a world of pasta possibilities waiting to be twirled around your fork. Think beyond the vodka splash — we’re talking creamy, tangy, and umami-packed creations that hit even harder. From classic cacio e pepe upgrades to chili-spiked tomato swirls, these recipes offer fresh takes on the comfort food we can’t quit. Some are indulgent, some are surprisingly simple, but all are destined to live in your camera roll as repeat offenders. If Gigi's pasta was the gateway, consider these the main event. Ready to stir up your next obsession? Here are eight pasta recipes that promise to out-sauce even the most viral moments.
1. Arlo Communal's Pasta Pomodoro
Arlo Communal’s pasta pomodoro is a masterclass in simplicity, with slow-simmered tomatoes, fresh basil, and a glossy olive oil finish that clings to every strand like silk.
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2. Joel Bennett's Rigatoni Carbonara
Joel Bennett’s rigatoni carbonara is a masterstroke of simplicity — perfectly coated in a rich egg yolk sauce, studded with golden-crisp guanciale, and finished with a sharp hit of Pecorino for an irresistible umami kick.
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3. Julia Khan Anselmo's Orange, Lemon & Saffron Paparadelle
Julia Khan Anselmo’s Orange, Lemon & Saffron Pappardelle is a sunlit celebration of citrus and spice — silky ribbons of pasta coated in a zesty, saffron-infused cream sauce that’s equal parts fresh, fragrant, and utterly indulgent.
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4. Emiko Davies' Tagliolini al Limone
Emiko Davies’ Tagliolini al Limone is a bright, tangy twist on tradition — tender strands of tagliolini bathed in a velvety lemon-butter sauce, with creamy goat cheese, a hint of chili heat, and a flurry of fresh parsley and Parmesan to finish.
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5. Pierce Abernathy's Meyer Lemon and Mushroom Pasta
Pierce Abernathy's Meyer Lemon & Wild Mushroom Pasta combines the bright zest of Meyer lemons with the earthy depth of wild mushrooms, creating a harmonious dish that balances citrusy freshness with savoury richness.
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6. Stanley Tucci's favourite Spaghetti alla Nerano
Stanley Tucci’s love for Spaghetti alla Nerano was immortalised in his series Searching for Italy, where he declared the dish — a creamy mix of fried zucchini, provolone, and perfectly al dente pasta — one of his all-time favourites, capturing the essence of coastal Italian simplicity.
@stanley.tucci Prepping for everybodys favourite... Spaghetti alla Nerano. Dreaming of being at Lo Scoglio. #spaghettiallanerano #recipes #stanleytucci ♬ original sound - Stanley Tucci
7. The Monday Pasta Club's Tomato, Mascarpone and Peat’d Truffle Rigatoni with Buffalo Mozzarella
The Tomato Mascarpone and Peat'd Truffle Rigatoni with Buffalo Mozzarella elevates traditional pasta with a luxurious blend of creamy mascarpone, earthy truffle notes, and rich buffalo mozzarella, offering a more indulgent and complex flavour profile compared to the simpler, spicy tomato-based vodka pasta.
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8. Andy Hearnden's Cacio e Pepe
Andy Cooks' Cacio e Pepe is a masterful rendition of the Roman classic, featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a creamy emulsion of finely grated Pecorino Romano and freshly cracked black pepper, delivering a harmonious balance of sharp, salty, and spicy flavours.
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Looking for more? Check out our round-up of summer pasta recipes, or try your hand at 10 William's Trofie pasta with pesto and comte.
