Creamy Vodka Pasta Recipe

Creamy Vodka Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich tomato sauce with the smooth taste of heavy cream, a touch of vodka, and fragrant Italian seasonings. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, this dish is both easy to prepare and utterly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and tomato sauce creates a luxurious, velvety texture.
• Flavorful Kick: A hint of vodka and red pepper flakes elevates the taste to restaurant-quality.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile: Works beautifully with any pasta type and can be customized with additional proteins or veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that’s loved by both adults and kids alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Produce

• 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (14 oz) tomatoes

Baking & Spices

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Oils & Vinegars

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Dairy

• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Beer, Wine & Liquor

• ¼ cup vodka

Directions

1. Sauté Garlic:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   Pour in the canned tomatoes and mash lightly with a spoon for a chunkier texture. Stir in the vodka and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
3. Add Cream and Seasonings:
   Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   Meanwhile, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency, if needed.
6. Finish with Cheese and Basil:
   Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Spicy Twist: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Cheese Lover’s Version: Mix in extra Parmesan or a touch of mozzarella for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I skip the vodka?

Yes, you can omit the vodka or substitute it with chicken broth or water for a similar consistency.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Penne is a classic choice, but you can use spaghetti, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, substitute canned tomatoes with fresh, peeled, and diced tomatoes for a fresher flavor.

4. Is the vodka flavor strong?

No, the alcohol cooks off, leaving only a subtle depth of flavor.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

6. How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the sauce longer or add a small amount of tomato paste for a thicker consistency.

7. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and reheated before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

8. What can I serve alongside this pasta?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes.

9. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet to accommodate.

10. How do I prevent the sauce from being too acidic?

Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Conclusion

Creamy Vodka Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures in one bowl. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Quick, customizable, and irresistibly delicious, it’s a pasta night game-changer you’ll come back to again and again!

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