Gochujang Pasta Recipe: 5 Steps to Spicy Delight

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, have you ever tried combining Korean and Italian flavors? It’s a total game changer! This gochujang pasta recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it brings that delightful spicy kick of gochujang together with the comforting heartiness of spaghetti. I remember the first time I made it—my kitchen was filled with this incredible aroma that made my mouth water! The depth of flavor from the gochujang, paired with fresh veggies, creates a dish that’s not only unique but also so satisfying. Trust me, once you give this fusion dish a try, it’ll become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up a bowl of pure deliciousness!

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this gochujang pasta recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:

200g spaghetti: Your classic choice for this dish, but feel free to use whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you prefer!
2 tablespoons gochujang: This spicy Korean chili paste is the star of the show! Don’t be shy—add more if you like it hot!
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth that complements the gochujang beautifully.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: This fragrant oil will give your dish that nutty flavor we all love. Yum!
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic kick. You can never have too much garlic, right?
1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Adds a zesty brightness that balances the heat from the gochujang.
1 cup broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli not only adds crunch but also a lovely green color to your dish!
1 carrot, julienned: For a touch of sweetness and vibrancy—definitely a must-have!
2 green onions, sliced: These are perfect for garnishing, adding a fresh bite at the end.
Sesame seeds for garnish: A sprinkle of these adds a lovely crunch and makes the dish look pretty!

You’ll want to measure everything out beforehand to make your cooking process smooth and stress-free! Enjoy the journey of bringing these delightful ingredients together.

How to Prepare the Gochujang Pasta Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! This gochujang pasta recipe is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Follow these easy steps, and let’s get that kitchen smelling amazing!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large pan over medium heat and add the sesame oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they’re fragrant, but be careful not to let them burn—trust me, burnt garlic isn’t tasty!
Next, add the broccoli florets and julienned carrot to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are tender but still crisp. You want that perfect crunch!
Now, it’s time to bring in the flavor! Stir in the gochujang and soy sauce, mixing well to coat the veggies evenly. Let it cook for another minute, allowing those heavenly flavors to meld together.
Once your spaghetti is perfectly cooked, drain it and add it directly to the pan with the veggies. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in that luscious gochujang sauce. You’ll want every noodle to get its share of that spicy goodness!
Serve your pasta hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your incredible creation!

This dish comes together so quickly, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re craving something a little different. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Gochujang Pasta Recipe

Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious fast!
Flavor Explosion: The unique combination of gochujang, garlic, and ginger creates a savory and spicy sauce that’s absolutely addictive!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies like broccoli and carrots, this pasta is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Customizable: You can easily switch up the veggies or add proteins like chicken or tofu to make it your own!
Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is a great option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
Impressive and Unique: Serve this at your next gathering, and your friends will be so impressed by the fusion of Korean and Italian flavors!

Trust me, once you experience the magic of this dish, it’ll become a go-to in your cooking repertoire!

Tips for Success

Want to take your gochujang pasta to the next level? I’ve got you covered with some handy tips that’ll ensure your dish turns out amazing every time!

Adjust the Spice: If you’re unsure about the heat level, start with less gochujang and taste as you go. You can always add more to kick up the spice!
Perfect Pasta: Don’t forget to salt your pasta water! It adds flavor to the spaghetti and makes a big difference. Also, remember to reserve a little pasta water before draining—it can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Fresh Veggies: Use fresh, vibrant vegetables for the best flavor and texture. If you can, choose seasonal produce; it often tastes better and has more nutrients!
Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Keep that perfect crunch! Sauté the vegetables just until tender; you want them to retain some bite and freshness.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the green onions and sesame seeds! They not only add flavor but also make your dish look beautiful and appetizing.
Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Just toss it in with the veggies to warm through before mixing in the pasta.
Make it a Meal Prep Winner: This pasta dish stores well in the fridge! If you’re making it ahead, just keep the veggies and pasta separate until you’re ready to eat to keep everything fresh.

With these tips, you’ll be whipping up this delicious gochujang pasta like a pro in no time. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Variations of the Gochujang Pasta Recipe

This gochujang pasta recipe is so versatile, and I love that you can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand! Here are some fun variations to consider:

Veggie Swap: Don’t have broccoli or carrots? No problem! You can use bell peppers, snap peas, or even zucchini. Just chop them up and add them to your pan—they’ll all bring their own delightful flavors!
Protein Power: Want to make it a heartier dish? Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu. Just sauté the protein with the veggies to warm it through, and you’re good to go!
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you mix in the gochujang for an extra heat boost. Wow, your taste buds will thank you!
Creamy Twist: For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk just before tossing in the pasta. It adds a lovely richness that pairs beautifully with the spice!
Noodles Galore: Feel like switching up the pasta? Try this recipe with udon noodles or rice noodles for a delightful twist. They’ll soak up all that gochujang goodness, too!
Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor. It’s a simple way to elevate your dish!

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you love or have at home. The best part about cooking is making it your own, so get creative and enjoy your gochujang pasta adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve whipped up this delightful gochujang pasta and have some leftovers? No worries! Storing and reheating it properly is key to keeping all those fabulous flavors intact!

First things first, let your pasta cool down a bit before storing it. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it from drying out and help maintain that delicious taste. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly to avoid any fridge odors seeping in—yuck!

When it’s time to reheat, you’ve got a couple of options! If you’re in a hurry, you can pop it in the microwave. Just place your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed through. This helps to keep it moist and prevents it from drying out.

If you prefer the stovetop method, heat a little sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and add your leftover pasta. Toss it around to warm it up gently, and feel free to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if it seems too thick. This way, you’ll bring back that deliciously saucy goodness!

One last tip: if you know you’ll have leftovers, consider storing the veggies separately from the pasta. This helps them maintain their crunch and freshness. Just toss them together when you’re ready to reheat, and you’ll have a delicious meal that tastes just as good as when you first made it!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about how this amazing gochujang pasta fits into your meal plan! Below, you’ll find an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Calories: 450
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 12g

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a good balance of nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your weekly meals. Enjoy every delicious bite, and remember, the numbers are just a guide—you can always adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs!

FAQ Section

Can I make this gochujang pasta recipe spicy?
Absolutely! If you love heat, feel free to add more gochujang or toss in some red pepper flakes while cooking. Just remember to taste as you go, so you get it just right for your palate!

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you like—penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options work wonderfully. The key is to cook it al dente for the best texture!

Is this dish vegan?
Yes! This gochujang pasta recipe is vegetarian as it stands, and it can easily be made vegan by ensuring your gochujang and soy sauce don’t contain any animal-based ingredients. Just skip any added proteins like chicken or use plant-based options like tofu or tempeh!

How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance by chopping the veggies and measuring out the sauces. Just cook the pasta and sauté the vegetables when you’re ready to eat. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and follow the reheating instructions to enjoy it later!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your gochujang pasta fresh, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. And don’t forget to separate the veggies if you want to maintain their crunch!

gochujang pasta recipe - detail 1

creamy garlic pasta recipe and creamy garlic butter chicken are also great options to try with similar flavors!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.