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vodka pasta

Creamy Homemade Vodka Pasta

A creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring a silky tomato cream sauce enhanced with vodka. Perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or quick weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • ½ cup vodka
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Topping
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil
  • ¼ cup pasta water
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

Method
 

  1. Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve pasta water and drain.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter, then sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and chili flakes.
  3. Pour in vodka and simmer until slightly reduced.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and cook until gently bubbling.
  5. Add heavy cream and mix until the sauce turns creamy pink.
  6. Toss pasta with sauce, Parmesan, and pasta water until silky.
  7. Garnish with basil and extra cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Add a splash of cream when reheating leftovers.
  • Fresh Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture.
  • Swap penne with rigatoni or spaghetti if desired.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.