Description
This creamy vodka pasta is the ultimate comfort food with its rich, velvety tomato-cream sauce, a hint of spice, and a splash of vodka for added depth. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delicious Italian-inspired meal perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Produce:
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14-16 oz) tomatoes (crushed or diced)
Baking & Spices:
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Dairy:
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
Other:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or your favorite gluten-free variety)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Make the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, vodka, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and let simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
3. Add Cream and Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve immediately, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Vodka Substitution: If you prefer to skip the alcohol, substitute with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
- Cheese Option: Pecorino Romano can be used instead of Parmesan for a slightly sharper flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
