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Pasta Alla Vodka is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich, velvety sauce that perfectly balances tangy tomatoes, smooth cream, and a subtle kick from vodka. The alcohol enhances the flavors, helping to bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while blending seamlessly with garlic, onions, and red pepper flakes for depth.
This restaurant-quality dish comes together quickly with pantry staples, making it an easy yet indulgent option for weeknights or special occasions. Whether paired with penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti, this pasta dish delivers creamy, comforting goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy: The perfect balance of tomato, cream, and vodka for a silky sauce.
- Easy Yet Elegant: Simple enough for weeknights but impressive for guests.
- Customizable: Add protein like chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil & Butter: Creates a flavorful base for sautéing.
- Onion & Garlic: Infuse the sauce with depth and aroma.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Provide a rich, tangy tomato base.
- Vodka: Enhances flavors and balances acidity.
- Heavy Cream: Adds smoothness and richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Brings a subtle heat.
- Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
For the Pasta:
- Penne or Rigatoni: Holds the sauce well for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings to bring everything together.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vodka, stirring to combine.
- Simmer for 10–12 minutes, allowing alcohol to cook off.
Step 4: Finish with Cream & Cheese
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Add reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat it evenly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Pro Tip Before Cooking
For a smoother sauce, blend the crushed tomatoes before adding them to the pan, or use tomato puree instead.
Pasta alla Vodka
A creamy, restaurant-quality pasta dish with a rich vodka-infused tomato sauce, served over penne or rigatoni.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup vodka
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes in oil and butter.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and vodka; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add cream, Parmesan, and seasoning; mix until smooth.
Toss pasta in sauce and serve with fresh basil.
Notes
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Make It Alcohol-Free: Substitute vodka with water and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or pancetta.
- Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 480Total Fat: 22gCarbohydrates: 55gFiber: 4gProtein: 14g
Pro Tip After Cooking
Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen and meld together.
Best Ways to Serve Pasta Alla Vodka
- With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Paired with a Side Salad: A light green salad balances the richness.
- Topped with Extra Parmesan: For added cheesy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.
Can I freeze vodka sauce?
Absolutely! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if I don’t have vodka?
You can leave it out or replace it with a bit of lemon juice and extra broth to maintain balance in the sauce.
Wrapping it up
This Pasta alla Vodka is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal at home. With its creamy, rich sauce and just the right touch of spice, it’s a go-to recipe for both weeknights and special occasions.
Pair it with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and a side of garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired dining experience!
